As parents, we want our children to succeed in school. It’s important that we encourage them to keep up with their homework, and help them where possible. This is especially important with vocabulary and spelling work, since much of that homework involves repetition, and repetition can get boring for students of any age. You can help children learn to spell and help them improve their vocabulary by giving them effective help with their homework, so that they know that they have your support, without relying on you to do the work for them. Before you get ready to sit down with your child and look at the lessons for the day, keep these five tips in mind:

Children need schedules. If you can, establish a routine for homework time every day at the same time. For many families, this is often the time after dinner and before “free time” watching television or a movie. Another good time is right after the child returns from school, when the day’s lessons are fresh in their mind. Make sure you give them a snack before they start, to keep their energy level high.

Time management is important. Although as adults, we’re used to schedules and due dates, children may not have that sense of urgency. As a parent, you can explain the importance of setting aside time to do homework, and why it needs to be done before the child goes out to play.

Keep resources handy. You won’t always be available to help your child, so make sure they know what other homework resources they have. Buy them a dictionary to help with definitions and spelling, and teach them how to make their own flash cards to test themselves.

Make learning fun. Try setting up a spelling bee with prizes for the most words spelled correctly. Play games with spelling and vocabulary themes, like Hangman or Boggle. Look for “junior” crossword puzzle and find-a-word puzzle books so that your child relates wordplay with regular playtime activities.

Be patient. Children learn at different rates, and some need more explanations than others. Make the time and take the time to go over information as often as necessary so that your child really understands what they’re doing. If you get impatient and walk away, you’re communicating to your child that what they’re doing isn’t important – and that they aren’t either.

Do you have any other handy homework tips? Share them in the comments.

Cross-posted on the Ultimate Spelling blog.