Even children in the same family can have very different temperaments. These styles of interacting with the world can be seen in infancy and continue to display throughout life. Some children are very active. Some are more formal. Others are very shy. Despite these temperamental differences, all children can learn to get along with others according to their particular style. When we refrain from comparing them with their siblings and instead adjust how we interact with them based on their temperament, we build their self confidence. They are able to use us as a positive model for their future relationships.
Helping children with homework can be a positive or negative experience depending upon how it is handled. Children do need support from parents who care about how their children do in school. Children need to know that homework is a high priority in the house. A quiet time and place should be provided. Pencils and paper are made available. An adult is ready to answer a question when needed. The parent can help the child make a plan for dividing homework into small steps in order to make the work more manageable. The parent can also answer a question a child may have about how to do something. But parents should not fall into the trap of sitting with the child and doing the homework with or for them. If the child does not know how to do the work even after an explanation, a parent teacher conference may be in order.
–Dr. Rosemary Burton
Vice President of Education,
Minnieland Academy – Virginia Childcare
