Your child passes all their tests and can answer any question you ask about the subject matter, but when it comes to homework, things simply fall apart. Suddenly, a note comes home from school that your child is in danger of failing. Teachers are busy people, but so are you and if this is your child's situation, it would make sense that you all take time to figure out a plan before things get too bad. Homework is there for a reason and has value, by not completing it, your child may be missing out on important review and skills. Set up an appointment with their teacher immediately and get your child back on track.

When you arrive at the meeting, be sure that both your verbal language and your body language lets the teacher know you both want the same thing which is success for your child. Many times, parents forget that as frustrated as they are about an issue, the teacher is doing a job that becomes harder by the year. The level of accountability expected increases and student motivation to do the work decreases. So, if you want to work out a plan, don't come in ready to cast blame. This rarely helps and usually makes for bigger problems.

Try to get a feel from the teacher how long homework should be taking each night. If it seems like a lot to you, it may be overwhelming to your child. While you are at it, discuss the homework policy of the classroom and what type of grade reduction your child will receive for late or incomplete assignments. It is important as a parent to understand all the variables of the problem if you are going to try and work it out.

Once you both understand the basics, begin to discuss a plan that can be implemented both in and out of school. There is no age limit to assignment books going between home and school if necessary. Simple initials by both parent and teacher may be all your child needs to get them moving again. Another thing that might work is breaking assignments into shorter segments and allowing breaks between the work. Take the time to listen to suggestions by the teacher, this is not the first time they have dealt with such an issue and they may have some other great ideas.

No matter what takes place when you meet with the teacher, it is important to let your child know what your expectations are and what you are willing to do to help them achieve success. If they need things explained or read to them, set up a time to help them or discuss with the teacher a time for them to work individually with your child. You may find that with a few of these simple strategies, things will improve and your child's grades will go up. There is nothing that works better for any situation than honest communication.

Learn more about this author, Karen Meeker.
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