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The issue of homework tends to be quite controversial. For a few years now, there are many who defend that children should not bring homework. That they already spend enough time at school, and that we are saturating them with too many tasks. On the other hand, there are those who defend that homework is necessary to reinforce and review what was seen in school, and that there are children who without homework would not advance what they should.
Some time ago I discussed this issue with a post in which he spoke of both points of view. My position on this issue is intermediate. I think it always depends on the student and the educational level in which we find ourselves. But, above all, it is a question of the characteristics of the child.
The educational system, except on rare occasions, is not prepared for those who know less. Learning rhythms do not stop when a child does not understand something, if it continues, because the ultimate goal is to cover the contents stipulated by law. Then, What happens to those students who need to go through the content several times?? What do they have to review at home?. No matter how much we agree or not, it's like that, and that is why it is essential that children have a work routine outside of school.
I know that homework time brings you many headaches.. Discussions and moments of tension. These are moments that many of you do not know how to manage.. Therefore, Today I want to leave you some “tricks”, to try to make this moment a little easier. I hope they are useful to you and that you tell me the results.
- Set a time of day. I put this point first because I think it is one of the most important.. On many occasions we have talked about the importance of routines for little ones., and having an established time for homework is essential. At first it will be difficult but once it has become a habit it will be much easier.. The choice of this moment is very important. When I ask the children why they don't want to do their homework, They tell me they are tired, they started making them on Sunday, late in the day when they returned from a weekend away from home. Obviously, this is not the most opportune time. We must find a time when the children are clear. If it's the weekend, first thing in the morning, after breakfast. Explain to them that this is the best time because then they will have the entire weekend to play and dedicate it to what they like most.. If we talk about choosing a time during the week after school, It is best that you give them a little time to disconnect when you get home., what do they have a snack, play a little and then get on with your homework. The later they start with it, the more it will cost them.. It is essential that if you choose a time of day you stick to it. Nothing about changing.
- Have a fixed place. This is almost as important as having a time of day. The place does not have to be in the children's room, It could be the living room or the kitchen., but as long as it is the same. Further, It is essential that children have everything they need at hand and do not have to constantly get up to get what they need.. In this way we will avoid interruptions and cuts that will lead us to lose concentration.. It is essential that the place we choose is “away” from distractions. I.e., no TV, phone or siblings playing around. It should be an area where there is silence and children can concentrate easily.
- Alone or accompanied? This, above all, It will depend on the age of the children. I am in favor of doing homework alone, but, I consider it important that we are aware and more or less close to them to prevent them from getting lost.. We can sit with them, but that doesn't mean that we do their homework... A good way to be with the little ones, but don't feel "pressured", It is to sit down with them and start doing “our homework.”: pending work, household bills or even reading the newspaper. Further, In this way we set an example and create a work environment for the whole family..
- Do I correct my homework? It is one thing to correct the little ones' homework and another is to do it for them.. The best thing is that you correct them when they have finished everything. If you don't want them to get discouraged, it is essential that highlight what they have done well. Don't use phrases like, “This is not how it is done”, "very badly", “what a disaster”, “With how well your sister does it…”. As much as possible you should try to be positive. Use typical phrases, “how well you have done this”, “see how you can”, “We are going to try to do it this well in…”
- Beware of rewards! It is inevitable to fall into the temptation of rewards so that the little ones do their homework. But, Careful. Rewards can become a “bribe”, and the moment they disappear the children will lose motivation. If you decide to use a rewards system, make sure they are social. Family activities, with friends, etc.
- Attitude is essential. Children cover everything. Even if your position is contrary to duties, If they have to do them, they have to do them., and it is essential that children do not catch this attitude or they will use it against you. Don't tell them things like: “I know it's a pain, honey, but there's no choice but to do them.”.
- Anticipate. It is very important that before starting your homework you take a look at it and anticipate possible problems that you think may arise.. This way you will prevent your child from becoming discouraged in the face of difficulties.. The normal thing is that the teacher explains to his students clearly what they should do and how., but many times it is not like that. Read homework together, If the exercise has several questions, you can help your child with the first one to give him an example.. Make sure he understands what he has to do before he continues..
- Organize your homework. We all like to have an overview of what we have to do, organize ourselves and know more or less how long something will take us. Children are no less, That is why it is very important that you organize your homework before starting with them.. If you have several days ahead of you to complete your homework, distribute them so that the little ones do not get saturated. reach an agreement with them. Don't feel that the decision is yours.
- Persistent self. Persistence is a fundamental quality in life, and in this matter it is no exception. If you decide on a specific time to do your homework, don't change it constantly.. If you tell your children that they have to start doing their homework, don't "slack off" later.. Be constant and persistent and you will see how you achieve your goal..
I hope these “tricks” help you make homework time a little more bearable..
Tell me if they work and how the moment goes “duties”.
Thanks for being there!
“And thinking needs to be exercised, you must think every day and again and again, to preserve the life of thought.”
Becker


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