One of the biggest points of contention between parents and their kids, when it comes to school, is that of doing homework. Kids complain that homework is boring. They don't see the point - they already know the material. Or they lie - "I don't have any homework." "I did it already." "I'll have time to do it in the morning." Getting at the truth of it can be challenging. Even with on-line access to kids' progress in school, many parents still are surprised when report cards arrive. The single biggest reason for bad grades in school is poor homework completion.
The most important reason to do homework varies according to the child. Most children need to do homework to reinforce what was learned in school. This is particularly true in subjects where repetition is key to learning and retention of material (such as math and spelling). Most kids will learn the lesson naturally (and with reinforcement from parents), that there is a direct relationship between performance on tests and whether or not they have studied / done their homework along the way.
But, there are some kids who really don't need the repetition in order to master the material. They get As on tests even without studying or doing their homework. But, if they don't do their homework, a really smart student can get Cs or worse. The best explanation to give these kids about the value of doing their homework is to prepare them for later in life. All careers of any kind will have elements to them that are flat out boring or tedious. In order to do well in a career, one needs to develop the skills in childhood to be self-disciplined, to endure that which is boring, but important, and to forge ahead and get things done thoroughly and responsibly. If one doesn't develop these life skills when younger, it will be very tough when older to do this. And then, someone will have to settle for a career that they can do rather than getting to choose a career that's more challenging and gratifying.
If you've tried everything that you know how and you can't get your child on track, in the Chicago area, look for us at www.heritageprofessional.com. Outside of the Chicago area, ask someone whom you trust for the name of a reputable mental health professional.
