Going to preschool offers a dazzling variety of new things and experiences. But as schoolwork begins to pile up for your preschooler, your once enthusiastic tot may begin to resent the idea of bringing “more work” home. How do you nip this “negativity” in the bud? We’ll show you how.
Help build routines Cristina Aligada, preschool supervisor at Laro, Lapis, at Libro Center for Learners, a non-conventional school in Pasig City, stresses the importance of establishing routines.
Having a “study plan” helps a child build positive habits, acting as a guide to what needs to be done first, then next, and so on.
Offer guidance Supervise and check his homework, but never ever do it for him, because this deprives your child the opportunity to develop much-needed skills.
Moderate what he learns Parents are encouraged to present opportunities that allow for exploration, experimentation, and investigation. However, Aligada adds, “If they learn something the wrong way, it will be harder to unlearn it.” Moderate and synergize the information your child takes in.
Encourage him Praise his good work, even if these are small things to boost his self-esteem.
Writing and reading are key skills
One way of writing is through drawing, says Edie Weinthal, Ph.D., in Teachable Moments: A Parent’s Guide to Helping Your Child Excel, a book which recommends activities, actions, and attitudes that reinforce skills children learn in school.
Encourage your child to talk about his artwork and to tell stories about it.
Read to your child to help increase his vocabulary. And when his vocabulary is enriched, he will be able to recognize more and more words, adding up to a valuable reading experience.
Observe his development. Know what your child is capable of understanding and accomplishing, so you can set reasonable expectations. Being in constant communication with your child’s teacher is also advised, Aligada says.
Refrain from telling “scary school stories.” Show an upbeat, involved, and positive outlook to chuck his fear and lack of interest.
Keep homework area fun! Decorate it with your tot’s drawings. The area should have ample lighting, and lots of art and school supplies. No TV and electronic gadgets allowed! Remind him that he should do his homework at this specific area, not anywhere else.
Stick to homework time Pegging a specific time for studying will help your child develop a strong work ethic. Be creative during “no homework days.” Bring out math games, storybooks, and crossword puzzles. Review past lessons. Ask your child about what he did in school that day. Recalling information and retelling past accounts will help develop your child’s memory and thinking skills, says Aligada.
There are countless ways to make homework fun for your child, and hassle-free for you. According to Dr. Coleman, “The most important thing to teach your child is that you value education and you value homework as an essential tool for educating your child.”
SOURCES:
Cristina Aligada, preschool supervisor, Laro, Lapis at Libro Center for Learners, Pasig City
How to Say It to Your Kids: The Right Words to Solve Problems, Soothe Feelings, and Teach Values, Paul Coleman, Psy.D.
Teachable Moments: A Parent’s Guide to Helping your Child Excel, Edie Weinthal, Ph.D.
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