Homework

Dear Parents,

How important is homework?  There is no doubt that almost everyone has an opinion about it.  Research on the importance of homework during the last ten years has greatly strengthened the case for homework.  The bottom line is that many parents and teachers agree that homework develops students' study habits and work ethic, as well as supports academic learning.  Catholic schools, in particular, value homework as part of the recipe for helping students meet high academic and study expectations.

Here are a few ideas for making homework a positive growth experience for your child:

* Encourage your child to keep an assignment notebook in which all homework assignments are recorded, such as the 'Student Assginment Book'.
* Create a regular time and space for homework.  Treat homework as an important aspect of your child's schooling.
* Recognize your child's regular completion of homework assignments as "the way we do things in our home."  This expresses both expectation and honest appreciation for your child.
* Share any questions regarding the amount or type of homework assigned with your child's teacher.
* Try to strike a balance of appropriate assistance with your child's homework - not too much, not too little.  Younger children may need more assistance than older children.

When good study habits and successful completion of homework are a regular expectation, students benefit by attaining better grades, better study habits, and a more positive attitude toward school and learning.  Homework is also a valuable way for parents to gain insight to help support the school curriculum.  Today might be a good day to examine the "homework habits" in your household to ensure that your family receives the benefits homework can bring.