At the beginning of each week, help your child plan ahead by talking about approaching tests and quizzes, or assignments that are due. Mark important dates on a calendar and use it as a visual reminder for your child so that long-term assignments are not left until the last minute!

If possible, set aside time every day that you and your child agree will be “homework time.” For example, you might allow your child an hour of playtime after school, then have his homework time begin as you prepare dinner. In the event that your child’s scheduled after school activities prevent you from establishing the same time every day, use a chart or calendar to create a schedule so that homework is not an afterthought.

Designate a special, quiet, clutter-free homework spot in your house! Providing a secluded workspace away from noisy distractions (such as television or siblings) will help your child focus exclusively on his assignment. If a noise-free zone is not possible, consider allowing your child to listen to soothing, classical music through a pair of headphones in order to block out extraneous sounds and maximize concentration.

Help your child stay organized! Have her keep her homework in a special folder to transport to and from school. Then, as she completes assignments, have her return the work to the folder and place the folder inside her backpack so that it is not forgotten at home!

Make a plan for helping your child deal with lengthy or difficult assignments. Try breaking the assignment into smaller, more manageable chunks. For example, if your child is required to alphabetize his spelling words and write a sentence for each word, encourage him to alphabetize first, then reward his efforts with a ten-minute break and healthy snack before prompting him to concentrate on the second half of the assignment.

Be a role model for your child! As she is completing her homework assignments, read a book, balance the checkbook, or engage in some other activity that requires quiet concentration and promotes a learning atmosphere in your home.

Make connections to everyday life! For example, if your child is learning about measurement, ask him to help you measure ingredients as you follow a recipe to create a special dessert that you can enjoy together.

Set up a meeting with your child’s teacher and get suggestions from her on how to approach different topics your child is learning. Not only is this likely to result in some great strategies, but it will also show your child’s teacher that you are a willing at-home partner and strong supporter of her education!

Show an interest in what your child is learning in school. Ask about his homework assignments and volunteer to be available as a resource when he needs assistance.

Kids love hearing “I’m proud of you!” Be sure to take time to praise your child for his homework efforts. In addition to applauding your child for a job well done, you can set up a homework incentive system. Encourage your child to track his homework progress with this handy printable Homework Sticker Chart. Decide on a reward your child will receive for his homework efforts and have him write it in the blank on the chart. Then, for each day he completes his homework, place a sticker in one of the squares. When he fills up the chart, he gets the reward! A little positive recognition of your child’s efforts will go a long way toward motivating him and building self-esteem.