Helping Kids With Homework
Recently Trent brought home a math packet to finish and needed help. I have no idea how to do the new math that kids are doing these days but I definitely didn’t want to be that parent that gets frustrated and starts yelling at their kids about their homework. Here are some tips to help you stay cool and collected while helping your kids with their homework.
Youtube
Seriously. Youtube was a life savor for me in learning the new math methods. There are a ton of great, informative videos made specifically to help parents understand what is going on.
Don’t tell your kids this but you can google most of the elementary age math equations and get a break down on how to solve it using the new method. Once I figured out how to solve it, it was much easier to teach it to someone else.
Take Breaks
The math packet Trent brought home was a six page test prep packet. There was no way we were going to finish it without getting frustrated in one sitting. So we made a deal. We solved one page and he would get 10-15 minutes playing on his Nintendo Switch before we moved on to the next page. This made the task seem way less overwhelming.
Connect with the Teacher
Most of the time teachers are more than happy the offer some learning material and guidance to better help the parents. It took a simple email and his teacher sent me links and videos to help me better understand the material.
Be Kind to Yourself
You are not stupid for not knowing what’s going on. Kids are learning different ways to solve problems than we did in school and it doesn’t mean you’re an idiot if you’re a bit confused. Take it easy on yourself. You’ll figure it out if you have patience and are willing to learn.
Good luck!
<3 Bri