Homework help for Tweens (age 8 to 12)

Most students in the age group 8 to 12 (tweens) feel that all the good things have to wait until your homework is done. Its because their parents always tell them “After you finish your homework”.

There’s a good reason why parents give so much importance to your homework. Homework helps you learn the various topics, and also makes you learn regularly rather than having to wait till the last moment (exams). And getting a good education can help you build a good future.

So homework is important, but how can you get it done?

First, you need a quiet place without clutter and confusion. Writing on top of potato chip crumbs while talking on the phone is not going to help you finish your history lesson. Turn off the TV and other distractions. You’ll be better able to concentrate, which usually means you’ll finish your work more quickly and it’s more likely to be correct.

Set aside enough time to finish your work without rushing. You can’t just squeeze your science assignment into the commercials during your favorite TV show. Really learning something takes time. But if you find that you’re struggling even after putting in the time, you’ll want to ask for help.

Why Do Some Kids Need Homework Help?

Aside from just not understanding the lesson or assignment, kids might need homework help for other reasons. Some kids are out sick for a long time and miss a lot of work. Others get so busy that they don’t spend enough time on homework.

Personal problems can cause trouble with your work, too. Some kids may be dealing with stuff outside of school that can make homework harder, like problems with friends or things going on at home.

Kids whose parents are going through a divorce or some other family problem often struggle with getting homework done on time.

Even students who never had a problem with homework before can start having trouble because of problems they face at home. But whatever the reason for your homework struggles, there are many ways to get help.

Who Can Help?

Talk to someone (parents, teachers, school counselor, or another trusted adult) if you’re having problems with schoolwork.

Speak up at the earliest, else you will have plenty to catch up later.

You should talk to your parents right away. They might be able to show you how to do a tough math problem or help you think of a subject to write about for English class. Parents also can cut down on distractions, like noisy younger brothers and sisters!

Teachers can also provide useful advice on matters related to your homework/assignment. Teachers can provide study tips and offer ideas about how to tackle homework.

Many schools, towns, and cities offer after-school care for kids. Often, homework help is part of the program. There, you’ll be able to get some help from adults, as well as from other kids.

You also might try a local homework help line, which you would reach by phone. These services are typically staffed by teachers, older students, and other experts in school subjects.

You can also use the Internet to visit online homework help sites. But be cautious about just copying information from an Internet website. This is a form of cheating, so talk with your teacher about how to use these sources properly.

Another option is a private tutor, who is paid to spend time going over schoolwork with you. If cost is a concern, this can be less expensive if a small group of kids share a tutoring session.

Do It Together

Its also a great idea to learn/study together. Going over lessons together can actually help all those involved. You might want to create a regular study group. You could set goals together and reward yourselves for completing your work.

Make sure you inform your parents in case you decide to study together; you need someone to ensure you don’t waste a lot of time on non-study related things.

For example, when you finish writing your book reports, go ride your bikes together. Looking forward to something fun can help everyone get through the work.

Still Having Trouble?

Sometimes even after trying all these strategies, a child still may have trouble with homework. But then you need to remember that everyone learns at a different pace. Some kids may require study for 2 hours instead of 1, some may have to practice multiplication tables 10 times instead of 5 to really remember them.

It’s important to put in as much time as you need to understand the lessons.

Its a good idea to ask your mom or dad to help you create a schedule that will help you progress steadily and allows you your free time (for play).

And keep talking about the problems you’re having — tell your parents, teachers, counselors, and others. That way, they’ll see that you are trying to get your homework done.

And when it is done, make sure you go out and have some fun!

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