Science can be an exciting way for children to learn about the world we live in. Allowing children to learn by discovery allows for some possible messes, but a lot of fun and that's what learning is all about.There are some difficulties that a child may have with science, though, so here are some simple solutions to those common problems.

*The child who is disorganized: This is a very common problem for students, and seems to get worse as the child gets older, especially if the child suffers from ADHD or another disability. There are some easy ways for you to help out though:

Create simple worksheets for him to write his observations on based on the type of observation. For example: an observation lends itself to a page that has a box on top for a drawing and then lines on the bottom for written observations. Keeping track of properties in an experiment lends itself to a sheet with each property in a column to write in.

Color code your child's supplies. Red for completed homework to turn in, Blue for homework needing to be done, Yellow for long term assignments.

If the school doesn't already require a specific set up for the science binder, setting up tabs for notes, handouts, grades, and other relevant ideas often helps.

Never accept organization that includes random loose leaf paper stuffed into the book bag. These papers will get lost.

*The child who cannot keep notes quickly enough in class.
Make friends with the teacher - ask for copies of notes to study with your child. If the teacher is not receptive to this idea, make friends with other families with children in that class and copy their notes. Often teachers will have the notes on a webpage, as well as any assignments.

*The child who tells you one week before the science fair project is due.
There are many books on the market for great science fair projects that can be done in minimal amounts of time for just this kind of problem. First, don't get upset with your child. We all forget things, and even though the teacher started telling them a month ago to start a project, time and planning ahead are not always concrete ideas in your child's mind. Do make sure your child does the work. Do not fall into the trap of doing the project for your child just so that it gets done on time. If all else fails and the child doesn't have the project on time, that can be a lesson to learn from as well.

*The child whose grades are poor.
Be a good parent. Do homework with your children. If you do not have the time, hire a private tutor to do the homework with your child. Children do need help with homework and studying, if for nothing else than to learn good study habits. Even if your children claim they don't need help, if they are still receiving poor grades, make it a point to sit down and do the homework together. Then you will know more about what is going on in class and what your child may be having problems with. Not all problems stay in the classroom and most teachers will say that homework and test scores are two of the most common culprits to poor grades.

Learn more about this author, Jennifer W..
Click here to send author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about How to help your child with science?
We want to hear your view. Write now!