Say the word "homework" to the average ten-year-old and the response you get won't be a pretty one. On the list of young people's favorite things, homework tends to be sandwiched somewhere down between liver and dentists.
But homework may not deserve its bad reputation. Several major studies have shown that when kids do their homework regularly, they not only get better grades, but also enjoy school more and participate more actively in their classes. Here's how to help your daughter get the most out of her homework ? and keep homework time from becoming a lightening rod for family tensions.
First, if your daughter has complaints about her homework, take a moment to listen. She may have a point1x Even the best teachers can sometimes over- or under-burden their students with homework that is either too difficult or so easy that it's dull. A reasonable number of minutes for a student to spend on her homework is her grade level multiplied by ten, according to the experts. So if your fourth grader is doing much more or much less than forty minutes of homework a night, there may be a problem.
After carefully evaluating the situation, if you feel that there is something inappropriate about the homework your daughter has been given, don't be shy about bringing it up with her teacher. Most educators will appreciate the feedback, as long as it's phrased politely and positively.
If the level and amount of homework seems appropriate but it still isn't getting done, consider having your daughter sign a
