What to do when your child does not do their best work

 

If your child rushes through homework to talk on the phone, use the computer, watch TV, or get together with friends, state that it is not okay to do incomplete or sloppy work.  Use these tips to help your child take responsibility for doing homework well.

 

1.     Schedule homework time.

Allot a time each day when all other activities stop and your child must go to her study area and do homework.

2.     Tell your child what you expect.

Say, “I know you can do a better job.  I want you to take your time and do the best work you can.  Sloppy work is not acceptable.”

3.     Praise your child for work well done.

Say, “Great job getting your homework done,” or “I like how neat your paper looks.  Keep up the good work.”  Praise is the best way to encourage continued best efforts. 

4.     Institute mandatory homework time.

This means that your child must use the entire scheduled daily homework time for homework or other academic activities whether or not homework is completed.  For example, if two hours is allotted each night, the entire time must be spent on homework or, if homework is finished, on reading, reviewing textbooks, or practicing math.  Your child will learn that nothing can be gained by rushing through homework and will be encouraged to slow down and do a better job.

5.     Provide additional incentives.

To encourage your child to continue good work, give a reward or a point toward a prize each time homework is completed.  For example, when five points are earned, reward your child with an extra privilege.

6.     Contact the teacher.

If after trying these steps your child is still not doing their best work, you must work together with the teacher to improve your child’s performance.

 

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