When homework becomes an issue with your child, it is important to "connect" with the teacher IMMEDIATELY! Never let it get out of hand! Strong advice! But sometimes the process seems a little daunting! Here are some tips for effective communication. The tips each represent a stage of communication, making best use of time.
If one fails, move to the next.

1. The problem involves a student who "never seems to have homework". Most schools operate with a diary system. Place a brief note in the student's diary to the teacher concerned. "Would you please check James records his homework here, please!"
2. Make an appointment to see the teacher WITH THE CHILD! This is critical! This appointment is about the child. The child should be a part of the communication process. Ensure that all parties are aware of problems. Mention that your child has football training on Tuesday afternoons, making homework difficult. BE OPEN! Ask the teacher if homework could be recorded and checked in the diary so the child may organise his/her time effectively (AND so may you!)
3. Attend school set parent-teacher interviews WITH YOUR CHILD! If you have a high school child, you may then compare homework notes with a range of teachers. See if your child is avoiding homework in particular subject areas. In this way, by asking each teacher for help and suggestions, you may have a range of options for helping your child attend to homework. Most important of all, ask the teacher what topics will be studied in the near future. This is a critical question to ask because it will give you some guidelines as to what your child should be doing. AVOID SOCIAL CHIT-CHAT at these interviews. They are often only about 10 minutes long. Be prepared with your main questions on homework and stick to them!
4. This is the o help' stage! The "I have failed my child" stage! NO! Don't give up! Request an interview after school, WITH YOUR CHILD! Warn the teacher you would like help with a homework regime. It is important the teacher knows this beforehand, so as to be prepared with some clear strategies! Remember! This is after school time, at the end of a busy school day! The teacher may choose to write some notes to give you! So your warning as to the nature of the interview will be greatly appreciated and be more productive!
5. Persist with any of the above stages as required! AND always remember to give PRAISE when any little glimmer of effective homework is achieved!

While this topic focuses on communication with the teacher, it is always important to remember that, ultimately, the child is the one who must accept responsibility for homework. The onus of homework does not rest solely on you and the teacher! You AND the teacher are merely helpers and guides! You work together to help and guide the child.

And there is a Stage 6. Remember to share any successful homework achievement with the teacher. It is good to hear some positives!

Learn more about this author, Gemma Wiseman.
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