Setting the Best Times for Homework
The "best" times to do homework differ from student to student.
Some like to get right to their work after school and start on it in on
the school bus or carpools. They don't want to take a break and do it later.
These students are usually the ones who make effective use of study halls
and free time at school.
Other students may need some time away from studies before starting
their homework. Give them time to go outside and play, talk with you, eat
and relax, etc. Some may need to have a snack or eat dinner before doing
their homework.
Do not allow your children to tell you that they will do their assignments
when they arrive at school-that they will have enough time in homeroom
period. Homerooms are not generally the best of settings for homework;
students rush through their work just to get it done. You won't have the
opportunity to see if your children did their homework as you would wish.
Leaving homework for the morning at school may also lead to the copying
of others' work.
Some students are morning people, and it seems that they do better if
they get up early and do some of their homework in the morning. Although
some older students can do this well, getting up too early may tire younger
students. By the end of the school day, their teacher may have to drag
them through their work. If your child looks like one who does better work
in the morning, try saving just a bit of the homework to complete before
or after breakfast to see how this works.
Keep in mind that all students need time to relax and/or play each day.
If you're finding homework and studying taking so much time that your children
do not have time for other activities, talk with the teacher. See our section
on "How Long Should My Child Spend on Homework?".
