After conferencing with your child's teacher, you have a clear understanding of your child's academic successes and struggles. As teachers and parents team to create a successful academic year, I would like to suggest some helpful hints for homework time. Your child should be working on homework ten minutes per each grade level. For example, a 2^nd grade student should have 20 minutes per night, while a 5^th grade student should have 50 minutes per night. If your child is spending a considerable amount longer than this on homework each night, please speak with your child's teacher. There are several ways that you can create a setting that is conducive to a positive and productive homework experience. First, establish a routine. Children thrive on structure and knowing what to expect. If you have a set afternoon routine, your child will have a clear understanding of when homework is to be completed. Second, create a quiet workspace for your child. This might be the kitchen table, the office, or a desk in your child's room. It is important that this work area be without distractions of TV or other electronics. In this workspace, be sure to have the necessary homework supplies readily available. This will eliminate wasted time searching for needed materials. Third, give your child breaks during homework time. Make an agreement with your child that if he/she works for a set amount of time, a break will come prior to moving on to the next task. These short breaks allow your child the opportunity to “get the wiggles out” and then focus on the next assignment after the break. These three suggestions should create a more relaxed and successful homework time for both child and parent. With school and home teaming for success, I know each child will have academic growth this year.