Middle School Homework Tips for Parents

  1. Prioritize homework assignments.  Based on difficulty levels and due dates, created a numbered to-do list each afternoon/evening to help your child efficiently complete their homework. 
  2. Learn to advocate for themselves.  If an assignment is confusing to your child, they need clarificaiton, or additional support from their teacher, discuss with your child to whom they should speak and about what, including specific questions to get the help they need. 
  3. Create a calendar for long-term assignments.  It is helpful for students to use a blank monthly calendar to plan time they will need, backwards, from the due date of assignments.  Try color-coding for various classes; this will help students better chart out their after-school time. 
  4. Have a consistent work time.  Everyone deserves some down time, especially after a long day at school!  Allow your child some time to relax and unwind, encourage them to stay hydrated, and have a consistent start time for homework.  There's nothing worse than trying to start a difficult homework assignment at 8:00pm! 
  5. Stay positive.  Homework can be difficult, but modeling a positive attitude, especially when work gets difficult will help teach your child develop problem-solving and self-advocacy skills.  Encourage and support your child by providing guidance as to how to solve a problem and/or seek help. 
  6. Take a break.  If your child is focused and down to work, keep an eye open for frustration.  It is ok to take a break!

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