Children will achieve more through their homework activities if they feel that their parents are supportive and interested in what they are doing.

Below are some useful hints to help make homework time easier and more effective.

• Choose a quiet place for your child to do homework, preferably where they can sit at a table (away from distractions such as the television).
   
• Ensure the homework is completed while the child is alert.
   
• Talk to your child about their homework.  Ask questions such as - what subject is it?  What do you have to do?  When does it have to be returned to school?
   
• Have a collection of pens, pencils, ruler and rubber at home for homework.
   
• When children bring home reading books complete the reading record book.
   
• Help your child to understand the task and complete if fully but DON'T write or do it for them.  Make sure they do the thinking!
   
• Encourage your child through the task and praise them.  The words 'good' and 'well done' will go a long way to get the task completed well.
   
• Check that the quality and presentation is of an acceptable standard and sign the homework - do it personally and don't delegate the older brothers or sisters.  Using siblings to help is valuable but the final check should be with a parent or carer.  
   
• Use books from home, or go to the library to find out more about the homework topic.
   
• Find out more using the computer, if you have one.
   
• Most of all, show that you are interested and talk to your child about their home and their work at school.
   
• Make sure the homework is returned to school on time.
   
• If you have any worries about the work see your child's teacher.