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Parent's #1 Back to School Homework Strategy

I don't want to put a damper on summer vacation, but the beginning of the school year is approaching fast. Although "homework" isn't a concept most parents think about in the summer, preparation for the new school year is always a good idea--especially if it doesn't take much time.

If you had difficulty keeping your kids on track with homework (without nagging or negative consequences), remember your kids are a year older and wiser and have probably become better at resisting what they don't want to do.

An important tool you as a parent can use is delivering "yummies". That doesn't mean you reward positive behavior with edible treats. Instead, consider what kids really REALLY want…your praise, your confidence and your attention!

Here's a thought, now that summer is drawing to a close, you can begin a new intentional habit: noticing your child's "good" behaviors and commenting on them. I know that most parents are happy to praise when praise is due. But sometimes, it takes a watchful eye to catch your kids being good.

Praise is a tricky way to comment of positive behaviors because sometimes kids might misunderstand what you're telling them. Praise can reinforce behaviors. But sometimes, kids personalize what you're saying. Kids can think that praise and condemnation are two sides of the same coin--making them worry about who they are when they don't behave properly.

However, a carefully crafted statement can reinforce positive behaviors without making a personal judgment. One sure-fire way to compliment your kids is to follow three components of productive communication: 1) State the behavior first and then 2) Describe how you feel about the behavior then finish your communication with 3) What your observation means about the kid.

1) State the behavior specifically.

--When you shared your toy with your brother….
--When you cleared your plate from the table and took it to the kitchen…
--When you finished your book…
--When you shared that terrific idea…

2) Describe how you feel about the behavior

--…I was really pleased…
--…I feel really proud…
--..I was amazed that you thought of it…
--…I felt honored…

3) What does your observation mean about your child?

--…I can see that you're really generous
--..I can see that you're trying really hard
--…I can see that you really want to help me
--…I can see that you appreciate me

This may seem a bit formulaic; but when a person wants to change a habit (or create a new one), you have to practice, practice, practice until it becomes second nature.

So, what does this have to do with Homework? Some kids might do something they don't want to do if you reward them with money, treats or promises of a future event. But almost ALL kids enjoy the good feeling they get instantaneously when their parents show their appreciation. Before the school year begins and the grind of homework becomes a daily occurrence, get ready with phrases that will encourage your child to "work" for the good feeling you can stimulate.

For more ideas about how start out the new school year with strategies to help your kids keep on track with their school work (willingly), you're invited to visit: www.HomeworkSuccessNetwork.com. Learning is lifetime endeavor. It's wise to promote good feelings and attitudes about it…instead of dread!

Article Compilation by www.HomeworkSuccessArticleDirectory.com

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