Some Helpful Common-Sense Reminders

I just found these on the Government of Alberta Education website, and thought I'd post them for a refresher.

Homework

Helping Your Child Study

• Establish a Routine. Setting a regular time and sticking to it helps children complete their homework assignments.
• Set the Mood. Ensure the room your child studies in is quiet, has plenty of light, and has school supplies close at hand. Remove distractions by turning off the television and discouraging social phone calls during homework time.
• Show an Interest. Ask your child about school activities and talk about what was discussed in school that day. Take your child to the library to check out materials for homework, and make time to read with your child as often as you can.

Monitoring Homework Assignments

• Be Informed. Find out about the school's policy on homework at the beginning of the school year. Ask your child's teachers about the kind of assignments that will be given and what kind of time frame the children have to complete them.
• Be Involved. Ask the teacher how you can help with homework. Be available to answer your child's questions, look over completed assignments, and encourage your child to share returned assignments so you can read the teacher's comments.

Providing Guidance to Homework Assignments

• Learn How Your Child Learns. Understand your child's learning style and develop routines that best support how he or she learns best.
• Encourage Good Study Habits. Help your child get organized. Ensure your child has scheduled enough time to complete assignments.
• Talk. Discuss homework with your child. Talking about an assignment can help your child think it through and break it down into small, workable parts.
• Provide Encouragement. Find ways to support your child's efforts in completing assignments.

Reading with Your Child

• Make Reading a Priority. Let your child know how important it is to read regularly. Establish a regular time and place for reading.
• Read to Your Child. Make time to read to your child on a regular basis. It is a great way to help develop a love of learning.
• Ask Your Child to Read to You. Have your child read aloud to you.
• Keep Reading Material Close By. Make sure children's books and magazines are easily accessible. Keep a basket of books in the family room, kitchen, or your child's bedroom to encourage him or her to read more often.
• Visit the Library. Make visits to the library a regular activity and let your children select their own books.
• Be a Reading Role Model. Read a lot. Let your child see you read and hear you talk about your books.

Safe Internet Use

• Do Your Research. Find safe and relevant sites and child-friendly search engines for your child to use. Bookmark them for easy access.
• Make an Agreement. Create an agreement with your child that outlines which site he or she is allowed to visit, and which areas and activities are off-limits. Involve your child in this activity.
• Stay Aware. Keep lines of communication open so you know what Web sites your child is visiting. Pay attention to his or her surfing habits. Let your child know that he or she can come to you in case of trouble.
• Report Suspicious Activity. If you or your child encounter suspicious or dangerous situations online, report them to your Internet Service Provider and local police.