Elementary School Work and Assignments

Helping Your Child with Schoolwork and Homework

Curriculums and State Learning Standards

It's likely that your child's curriculum is based on state-mandated learning standards, which can vary from state to state and school to school. Many curriculums are based on the Common Core State Standards for math and English/language arts. Your child's assignments are probably based on these standards. Although you can find core learning standards on the Internet, it's often best to get in touch with your child's teachers and any other learning professionals working with your child to find out exactly what your child is learning and how he or she is doing.

Succeeding at School

One of the most basic ways you can help your child at home is by passing on a positive attitude about education. Starting when your child is at an early age, you can share your ideas with him or her about the importance of learning. Reinforce your child's self-confidence by encouraging success rather than reprimanding failure.

Helping Your Child with School Assignments

Although your elementary student completes school assignments during the school day, you can still help out at home. Make a habit of talking to your child about school when he or she gets home. Don't just discuss the events of day; talk about the work specifically. Go over any assignments, tests or quizzes that have been handed back. Also, maintaining close contact with your child's teachers can be very useful when monitoring schoolwork. Find out where your child needs assistance and focus on those areas.

Helping with Homework

If possible, create a dedicated study space for your child where he or she can complete homework and study. This space should be clean, uncluttered and away from distractions, like cell phones, the Internet and television. Keep this environment well lit and cheery to encourage a positive learning attitude.

When you help your child with homework, never do the homework for him or her. Instead, help your child work through it so that he or she can complete a similar assignment independently in the future. To help him or her gain this independence, give your elementary student space and only jump in when you're genuinely needed.