Here’s a situation many caregivers are familiar with: it’s early evening, and your kids return home from school, looking tired and burdened with backpacks loaded with assignments. So, what’s the next step? Do you: 1) sit with them to tackle the tasks or 2) inspire them to handle it independently?
The right approach? It’s “contextual.” According to the most extensive research synthesis on this topic, scholars from Duke University emphasized that a parent’s decision to intervene in their child’s homework should be influenced by: 1) the child’s academic level, 2) the parent’s familiarity with the homework subject, and 3) the manner in which parents assist their offspring.
Before diving into homework time with your kids, factor in their age. Sounds mysterious? Contrary to common belief, studies repeatedly indicate that homework support is productive for elementary and high school students, but not so for those in middle school. Thus, if your kids are navigating middle school, it’s wiser to let them manage their assignments alone.
The rationale? Scholars theorize that for younger kids, parents’ assistance transcends just finishing assignments. At this age, your guidance also introduces them to foundational study techniques.
High school students, however, present a different narrative. In this phase, parental input seems valuable chiefly when parents possess specific knowledge to impart.
But why does parental assistance seem counterproductive for middle-schoolers? The probable answer lies in their unique developmental phase. Being on the cusp of adolescence, these youngsters are grappling with a newfound desire for independence, often resisting perceived parental meddling.
Speaking from personal experience as the dad of a teen preparing for high school, this rings true. My son, during his elementary years, cherished our collaborative homework sessions, providing precious bonding moments. As time passed, he cultivated commendable study routines, which I anticipate will serve him well in high school. Although our close moments persist, homework no longer dominates them.
In determining your involvement in your child’s academic tasks, evaluate your competence in the subject. Studies reveal that kids gain more when their parents have a grasp on the topic. It’s logical: such moments can become learning opportunities, introducing alternative problem-solving methods. Conversely, a lack of knowledge could lead to frustrations or even errors in their assignments.
It seems that parents typically fare better assisting in reading and writing rather than math. This is credited to many parents’ greater proficiency in literacy. When it comes to math, parents might be out of touch with current teaching methodologies, potentially clashing with modern strategies taught in schools.
While assistance in specific areas is commendable, maintaining a balance in involvement is paramount. Consistently, research suggests kids thrive when parents bolster their autonomous efforts instead of micro-managing.
Actively participating in your child’s academic journey can nurture beneficial study routines. However, the pinnacle of parental engagement involves setting distinct benchmarks and rewarding adherence. Key elements encompass establishing definitive rules about the timing, location, and methodology of homework completion. Studies highlight that proper parental guidance results in kids dedicating more quality time to homework, adopting these guidelines, and cultivating lasting, beneficial habits.