Ask the Experts: My second-grader forgets to bring things home for homework. How can I help him?
Question:
My son is having a lot of problems remembering things like his books in order to do his homework. How can I help him overcome his forgetfulness? Should I be worried?
Answer: Don’t worry, there are always solutions. Be patient. Some resolutions work faster than others. Try these ideas first:
1. Chart a list of items your child needs to remember. Make the sequence brief.
Directions: As your child performs each activity, have him put a check mark in the box.
- Place all class work in folders.
- Write down homework assignment in my journal (planner).
- Put books that I will need immediately into my backpack.
- Make sure that I checked again when the teacher announces that it is the end of the day.
2. It might be as simple as having the teacher remind him at the end of each day to bring home the specific books that are needed for the homework. Talk with her at a conference to see if she is willing to do this for your child.
3. Have a “heart to heart” talk with your son about how concerned you are about his forgetting his books. Ask him for suggestions. Sometimes children will surprise you with their answers.
4. Ask the teacher or your son to get phone numbers of his classmates so if he does forget his books, he would be able to call and get some of the important information.
If you find that you have exhausted all of these possible solutions and the situation hasn’t disappeared, you may want ask your child’s teacher or other school personnel for help.
Dr. Ruth Jacoby has been involved in education for more than 30 years as an educator, principal and currently as an educational consultant in Florida. She is the co-author of the School Talk! Success Series including the recently published Parent Talk!: The Art of Effective Communication With the School and Your Child and the soon-to-be-published Homework Talk! and Test Talk!
Advice from our experts is not a substitute for medical or other professional advice and services from a qualified health-care provider familiar with your unique situation. We recommend consulting a qualified professional if you have concerns about your child's medical or emotional condition.
October 2005
