Parents want their children to get good grades in school. Unfortunately, not every parent knows how best to help their children meet academic challenges, including completion of homework assignments. So, how do parents maximize their child's chances for success in school? Start by creating a personalized home environment that is conducive to homework and learning.
"Sometimes, parents think helping their child complete their homework, or even doing their child's homework for him, will help him achieve better grades in school," states Rebecca Rahn, Center Director "Often, it's just the opposite, creating a situation where children have not learned the concepts they are later tested on in the classroom."
"A simple way to help your child with homework is by creating an atmosphere that works with your child to efficiently tackle school tasks. Really get to know your child's personal homework style and develop an individualized plan for school success," states Rahn.
Sylvan offers parents the following tips and advice to develop a homework plan for back-to-school success:
1. Set Goals. Help your child set attainable goals for each class and help her identify what will need to be done to reach each goal. For example, to get an A in American History she will need to turn in all her homework, participate in class, etc.
2. Know Your Child. There are visual (seeing), auditory (hearing) and haptic (doing) learners. If you help your child work within his personal style, he will work more effectively. To determine your child's primary learning style, visit http://tutoring.sylvanlearning.com/learning-tools/learning-styles.cfm.
3. Create a Homework Zone. Set up an area in your home for studying, complete with a dictionary, paper and pens. Make sure the area is free from potential distractions and that study tools are at your child's fingertips to keep him focused on homework.
4. Develop Class Files. Develop a color-coded file for each of your child's classes. Make separate tabs for homework assignments, exams and projects, so your child can refer back to class materials when studying for comprehensive tests.
5. Set Weekly Milestones. For big projects or exams, get a large calendar for your child's desk area and help him set short time-lines to ensure projects and studying aren't left until the night before. Celebrate with your child when each milestone is met.
"By working with your child to develop a plan to efficiently complete homework tasks, you will find higher grades, fewer homework headaches and a more confident child as a result," states Rahn.
Learning feels goodTM at Sylvan Learning Center, the leading provider of in-center and live, on-line tutoring at home to students of all ages and skill levels. With more than 27 years of experience and nearly 1,200 centers located throughout North America, Sylvan's scientifically-proven, personalized methods have inspired more than two million students to discover the joy of learning. Sylvan's trained and certified teachers provide personalized instruction in reading, writing, mathematics, study skills and test-prep for college entrance and state exams. Sylvan helps transform unique kids into uniquely inspired learners with the skills to do better in school and the confidence to do better in everything else. For more information regarding the Sylvan AdvantageTM, call 715-858-1234 or visit www.educate.com.