HOMEWORK GUIDELINES

Recommendations for school regarding homework:

- Make a selection of homework

- Limit copying sentences.

-Give homework where students can perform recreational activities working on spelling.

-Promote that children from 7 years on, achieve a level of autonomy that would allow them to carry out tasks without the presence of adults. To do this, offer as a privilege, not a punishment or a negative consequence.

Steps to be taken are as follows:

1. Set starting and finishing times.

Time spent on homework must be limited: with a beginning and end. Many families spend long hours on this .It is better to advise that homework ends at a certain time and if not finished, they can try to catch up the next day. In these cases teachers can be informed that this "treatment" is taking place for a few days.

2 . Seated at the same table.

During the first five days approximately, parents can be seated at the same table as the student, at a certain distance, but without being involved in the task. That is, they will neither read the instructions nor explain. The child will have to try to understand what is required or find a way to carry out the tasks alone. A few minutes before completion time, some questions can be answered, but to a limited degree. There is no problem if the tasks are not done, the child can explain their doubts to the teacher. It is better that the teacher knows that the student could not do the homework, instead of having performed the task without really mastering it.

3 . In the same room but apart.

In a second phase, parents can remain in the same room as the child, but sitting elsewhere. For example, the child works at the dining table and mom or dad sit on the sofa reading a book. This can go on for approximately five days.

4. Working alone.

In the last phase the child will now work alone in his room or at his table. At first, parents may be present but occasionally leave the room while homework is being done. Later the child will be alone from the first minute to last.

5. Reinforcement

It is very important to reinforce appropriate and not inappropriate behaviour,. That means "surprising” them while they are working alone, show signs of satisfaction with tasks done unaided, valuing and recognising when the child can find solutions on their own.