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School Work: MIA
No, The Dog Did Not Eat Your Child's Homework
By Kimberly Austin
Pauline Turner's 26 years in elementary education have taught her one simple truth: Children need parents to help them with their homework. When parents involve themselves in their children's homework routine, the difference is significant.
"Of course their work is finished and correct," Turner says. "But they also show a genuine interest in learning and are even eager to learn. Those who don't have parental assistance make up excuses every day or things will suddenly come up as to why they didn't or couldn't do their homework."
Linda Hodge, vice president/program director of the Parent Teacher Association (PTA), says the results that Turner noticed are universal. According to PTA research, children who receive help on their homework develop higher self-confidence, have a more positive attitude toward learning, receive higher grades and have higher attendance in school.
Mike Potts, father of 15-year-old Amanda and 11-year-old Alicia, says he saw a general improvement in his older daughter's grades and attitude since he and his children developed a homework routine.
"If Amanda doesn't try she gets a 'C,' and if she tries she gets a 'B,'" Potts says. "But, if she tries a little harder she can get straight 'As.'"
Potts makes "trying" easier by helping his daughters with their homework. Potts does not have a history in education or numerous degrees. He helps his daughters by simply making sure they complete their homework. "We set-up a homework table in the kitchen away from the phone," Potts says. "And we center dinner around their homework."
Turner says this is the type of involvement that children need most, because parents serve as great motivators to their children. "If the parents are motivated to learn, the child will be, too," she says.