Both parents and experts are divided over the value of homework. Members of the pro-homework camp believe that homework reinforces skills learned in school and improves study habits while fostering independence. On the other side are those who feel that homework is unnecessary from an educational standpoint and serves as a source of frustration and anxiety for children while creating havoc in many homes. Wherever you fall on the homework debate, the chances are that your children will be faced with homework when they return to school.

Here are some strategies to promote good study skills, encourage independence and minimize stress for both students and their parents:

● Communicate.
If you are a parent of young children, communicate with their teachers so that you understand homework expectations. Questions you should ask may include: how much time should a child spend on homework? If he/she spends much more time on the assignment or doesn’t understand the homework, should the child explain that to the teacher or should the parent be in touch with the teacher? Having a plan in place will help your children feel secure on the rare occasions they go to school with incomplete assignments.
Encourage older children to communicate with their teachers on their own. If they are struggling with assignments, their teachers are likely to want to help! Have them reach out to their teachers to get the help they need.
If they feel overwhelmed by a large number of assignments or exams, encourage them to talk to a teacher or advisor at school.

● Get Ready.
Set up a designated place for homework to be done. Homework should be done in the same quiet place each day. Whether your children do homework at the kitchen table or a desk in their rooms, there should be ample light and minimal distractions. Electronics should be turned off and if necessary be removed from the room to reduce temptation and distractions. Supplies such as paper, pens, markers should be ready and easily accessible.

● Avoid procrastination.
Children should start their homework within thirty minutes of coming home from school. This short downtime is perfect for a healthy snack and/or play time before starting on homework. Sometimes children enjoy doing jumping jacks or wall push-ups before sitting at a desk and this physical activity can also help with focus.
Taking appropriate breaks is not procrastinating! Taking five minute breaks every half hour is recommended. Stretching, or any physical movement during the breaks is refreshing before starting a new assignment.

● Stay organized.
Use a large calendar to color code long term assignments that are checked and updated daily. Encourage children to make to-do lists. The act of crossing off an assignment after it is completed provides a sense of accomplishment and the motivation to move on to the next task.
As a general rule the most difficult assignments should be done first. However, there are exceptions to this rule as there are some children who accomplish more in the reverse, completing easier assignments first. Your children may need to experiment and see what works best for them.

● Be Positive.
Homework is your children’s responsibility, but you can help by supporting them, and more importantly, recognizing their efforts. Praise your children’s efforts when they work hard.