"I hate doing homework!"

"Why won't you let me do it my way?"

"Just get off my back, OK? I said I would get it done!"

When Did Homework Time Get So Bad?

When children first enter school, they almost always enjoy homework. It makes them feel mature and responsible. They ask for help when they need it, and their teachers give them another copy if they lose the first one. It's easy to help kids with their homework in primary school.

In adolescence, though, homework gets harder and more involved. Teachers expect the kids to be responsible enough to turn assignments in without reminding, and don't always give out multiple copies. Just when they really start to need the help of a parent, though, adolescents decide that they don't want it. Parents recognize that their kids need help, but trying to give help with schoolwork can turn into a major battle, making everyone in the house miserable.

As a teacher, I saw countless cases where students really needed their parents' help, and parents really wanted to give help, but it always ended up with people screaming and doors slamming. Following a few rules helped make homework time more peaceful. I can't promise you warm, fuzzy, picture-perfect homework times, but I can promise that, if you consistently apply the following rules, you will effectively help your child develop the skills he or she needs to do homework well.