I feel sorry for kids these days. They get so much homework… They have school all day, then homework from six until eleven. There’s no time left to be creative. ~ Tom Petty

Today’s letter is H, and the word is HOMEWORK.

Children who struggle to read and learn find homework particularly challenging and they may struggle for various reasons, which include:

• Difficulty decoding words
• Understanding the meaning of what they read
• Organizing their thoughts to complete written assignments

These challenges can lead to frustration and a lack of motivation, which can negatively impact their academic progress.

There are several reasons homework is important when it comes to reading, so you must encourage your child to do their homework. Here are 3 of them:

• Reinforcement: Homework provides an opportunity for your child to reinforce what they have learned in class. By practicing skills such as reading comprehension, vocabulary, and writing, your child can deepen their understanding of the material and retain information for longer periods of time.

• Independent learning: Homework also encourages independent learning and self-discipline. By completing assignments outside of class, your child can take ownership of their learning and develop skills such as time management and organization.

• Assessment: Homework assignments can be used as a form of assessment to measure your child’s understanding of the material. By reviewing completed assignments, teachers can identify areas where they may be struggling and provide additional support as needed.

It is crucial that you develop a system for regular communication with your child’s teachers. Your goal is to prevent your child from being overwhelmed with homework while, at the same time, receiving the necessary support.

It is essential to make sure that the homework assignments are appropriate for your child’s reading and learning level, and they come with clear instructions and examples.

When you provide the necessary support, no matter their reading and learning difficulties, your child can succeed academically and build confidence in their abilities.

If your child has trouble reading and learning, join the Parenting Hub, where you can connect and network with parents who share similar challenges. And if you know someone with a child with learning differences, send them the link.