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CHILDREN seem to return home from the classroom with a bulging backpack full of books and homework, more often than not these days.
It can be a daunting scenario for children and parents alike, but there are ways to make it easier, like establishing clear routines from day one.
Get the timing right – There are no set rules on what time of day is best to tackle the load. Some children may need to expend energy oncethey get home from school, others will be more comfortable doing homework first so they can have the rest of the night free.
Jack Goodman, chief executive of Yourtutor, a nationwide online homework centre available through public libraries and schools, recommends study should be done before dinner.
Child psychologist Michael Carr-Gregg says a general rule of thumb is that children do 10 minutes of homework for each grade level.
"If your child is spending more time than this, then you may want to talk with your child's teacher about adjusting the workload,” Dr Carr-Gregg said.
Screen time – It is inevitable parents will do some shoulder surfing while their child is on the computer, but Alan Ralph, associate professor of clinical psychology at Queensland University, warns against constant hovering.
“It's important to monitor what children are doing on the computer but you need to strike the right balance and put guidelines in place to encourage self-sufficiency,” said Dr Ralph, who is also head of training for the Triple P Positive Parenting Program throughout the world.
Some software also parents to set time limits on social networking sites, but Dr Ralph warned against depending on these exclusively.
“Children are very computer savvy. They have ways of getting around these programs so don't assume that you don't need to do checks,” he said.
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Strike a parental balance
A common trap is for parents to become a little overzealous in helping children with their homework.
“If their child is struggling with an activity, a parent should try and provide them with clues or assistance on how to find the answers. Coaching your child to problem-solve equips them well for later life,” said Dr Ralph.
There are more constructive ways parents can help children learn at home without actually finishing their homework assignments for them, according to Dr CarrGregg.
“Read to them, read with them and talk to them," he said. "Include them in shopping, games and physical activities. Help them to learn to balance homework, screen time, sports, chores and leisure time."
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