Homework time

When comes to back to school the most important thing is homework. How do you get your kids to do homework. You create a homework station with every supply they need. I did my homework at a desk. My daughter does it on her bed, the couch and even the dinning room table. So, a homework station should be portable. “…you can create a homework station that will help kids develop positive study skills, productive work habits, and increased school success.” — Fireflies & Mudpies

The first step is to choose a quiet space and make sure its clutter free. (Closetmaid) This is why the dining room table works for my daughter, it is clutter free and I am usually working upstairs, so it is quiet. If you are sectioning off space to be the designated homework area, make sure that it is inviting and motivating. Try hanging artwork that is t the alphabet, numbers, book covers or even a goofy portrait of Einstein. If you child is in elementary school, you want to make sure the items needed are within easy reach.

However, this being said, you kid can still be distracted especially if there phone is nearby or the TV is right in the sight line. “One of the best ways to keep your student on task while learning from home is to keep their workspace clutter free and eliminate outside distractions as much as possible. Sherri Conti is a kindergarten teacher with more than 30 years of experience. She says the secret to creating a successful homeschool station is to keep on hand only the materials necessary to complete each lesson on the table. “Items such as pencils, crayons and notebooks are okay but try to keep toys and technology to a minimum while working with elementary-age students.” Instead, “Use their favorite toy, movie or outdoor activity as an incentive to stay on task throughout the day," she says.” — Carley Knobioch, HGTV

So, what should be included in your bin, ask your child. Supplies will vary based on the grade your child is in. You may decide on a plastic bin, a lazy Susan with containers or a small bucket. My daughter, now 17, has a drawer in our front console. The drawer even has a mini stapler, tape and

single sheet three-hole punch. The drawer also has her blue light glasses, gum and fidget spinner.

Some must have items in a homework station:

1.    #2 pencils

2.   Crayons or colored pencils

3.   Scissors (age appropriate)

4.   Glue stick

5.    Pencil sharpener

6.   Extra paper— plain and ruled

7.    For MS and HS, students, pens, highlighters, graph paper, and stapler

Now that you are in the know, set your kid up for a successful school year and teach them homework can be fun.