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Minimize the Stress over Homework

Think of the possibilities if a child develops a clear vision of how to take ownership of their education. That vision becomes their internal, self-directed motivation. Instead of the nightly “Did you get your homework done” question the child willingly accepts responsibility for their homework. They get the homework completed on time – without being asked five times each night. The key is helping a child develop that vision.

Have you ever seen the high hurdles event at a track meet? Each runner has a clear vision and is focused on the finish line. By focusing on the finish line they view each hurdle as a minor annoyance in their path to their goal. What if your child used that same mental vision with their education? Suddenly those tests, homework assignments, quizzes become hurdles to overcome on their path to their goal - a quality education.

Vision alone will not help your child take ownership of their education. It is important that they learn how to set and achieve goals and how to use these principles in the classroom. By doing so they will learn how to develop a plan with action steps that once completed will move them closer to their goal. They will learn how to set a timetable for completing the plan, how make better decisions, minimize excuses, take more responsibility, and how to embrace your efforts to help them succeed. When that happens your nightly “Is your homework done?” question will be a thing of the past.

When students take ownership of their education they take personal responsibility to do something meaningful and positive to change their lives. With ownership comes dignity and self-respect. Teaching students how to set and achieve goals will make a significant, long-term difference in a student’s performance in the classroom, in the workplace, and in life.

Goal setting and educational ownership are fundamental building blocks our children need to become active participants in their education and their future success. With these tools our children will answer a resounding “yes” when asked, “Did I give my best effort to today’s activities?”

8/28/06

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