credit: bingnote.comHomework tips for parents. It is time for dinner and the kids haven't done their homework. You are tired, they are tired, and no one wants to do what has to be done. Sound familiar?

May I suggest a couple of things?

• Have a few minutes of rest with the children. As you go to prepare dinner, ask them to prepare to do homework.
• Ask them to lay out their assignments, papers, worksheets, etc.
• Part of their regular job should be to keep their pencils sharpened, and other supplies ready to be used if needed.
• If more than one child has to use the computer, work out a schedule.
• Make sure each has adequate space to work, with as few distractions as possible.
• After dinner, set a timer (if necessary), and ask them to go to work. If they need your help, you can assist, but encourage them to work as independently as possible. After all, homework should be applying what they have already been taught. You should not have to reteach every concept. Sometimes, though, worksheets are unclear or children have forgotten what the teacher said to do. So they may need assistance understanding the directions.
• Check the work, give praise for a job well done. Have the children put the homework in their backpacks, zipped and ready to go.

If it doesn't work so smoothly, you might want to check out the following books written on the subject:

Seven Steps to Homework Success: A family Guide to Homework Problems by S. Zentell and S. Goldstein

The Homework Handbook: Practical Advice you can Use Tonight To Help Your Child Succeed Tomorrow by H. Cholden, J. Friedman

Home Sweet Homework: A Guide to Stress-Free Homework and Studying Strategies That Work by S.M. Lockett

The Schoolmarm, another homework tips for parents.