63 www.womanthismonth.com September 2013 4. On record For few years, you need to keep track of your child’s assignments. Most schools send a copy of the to-do list to parents anyway. Set a reward system for achievements like good grades and winning contests. Punishment would simply mean not giving them a reward. Be quiet If you haven’t already, then it’s time to set an hour for silence in the evening. This is meant for the kids to get used to the concept of setting aside time for homework. Let them read for now. The idea is to keep them away from gadgets in those 60 minutes. Stay home Make it a practice that a week before they’re back to school, older children should be kept from going out at night. Teaching them to gravitate towards home is a significant part of their academic life. While the holidays are focused on ‘out of home’ activities, by the end of the break, they should be able to get back to routine. 8. A square meal You need to make time for family meals. Not only is it essential to build a connection; it has been proven that kids who eat with the family eat healthier and are less likely to be obese. The holidays must have allowed the influx of fast food into your home. Break the cycle by planning meals for the week. Keep calm Screaming and harassing is as stressful to them as it is to you. Besides, you are supposed to show them how to communicate, especially when they’re upset. Handling stress is a skill that can help them for life. Teach by example. Yelling is never the answer. 5. Off the record Instead of scolding children for underachieving, ask them what they’ve learnt from the experience and what they’d do differently. Failure is a natural consequence; they need to learn from it. If nothing helps, seek professional guidance. Many kids get motivated from well-managed study groups. 6. Deal with resistance Change isn’t easily accepted. So expect conflict. Set ground rules, stick to them and they will eventually stick to it. Don’t bring in the reward system for basic household obligations. It can backfire. Instead, deny them an allowance or other privileges to build a sense of responsibility. 7. 9. 10.
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