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Of the many benefits of
grad school, homework may not seem like one. This is especially the case if you're trying
to balance a family life with the demands of being a student. Like other parents, you
probably have your hands full dealing with your children's schoolwork, as well as doing
your own.
Your own homework may not seem like much of a
blessing while you're fighting through this busy family schedule. However, attending
school while your children are young provides you with a valuable opportunity to teach
your children something that they may never truly learn in school: the value and the
importance of education, and the discipline of doing homework.
Learn By Example
As any parent knows, children learn best by example and
experience rather than by lectures (or bribes, or threats for that matter). When your
child sees you turn off the television, or set aside some special time to read and work on
homework, you're setting a valuable example for your children that will last them a
lifetime. Reading at home invites your child to ask questions about what it is you're
doing and why. Being willing to discuss your courses, the classroom discussions, and what
you have found to be valuable in each particular class not only gives your child an
opportunity to learn, but also helps your child appreciate the value that you place on
learning and education.
Here Comes That Quality Time
By making yourself available to your children while you work
on your homework, and being open to their questions, provides one of the most precious
things a parent can give a child: the chance to talk. Granted, it can be very frustrating
to try and master a difficult idea with someone interrupting you every three minutes, but
it can be a wonderful chance for you and your child to have a great conversation. Discuss
what your doing and why, and allow them to ask questions. Open up the discussion to your
child's own opinions and thoughts on the subject, and really listen. You have a chance to
share your thoughts and ideas and to teach your children what it is you find valuable, or
what you may disagree with. Don't worry about the conversation digressing. No real
conversation with a child is truly wasted. And who knows, you may learn something!
The Homework?
But you still have homework to do right? Have no fear. All it
takes is a little bit of discipline, and some creativity. Many families set up a regular
homework hour for their children. Why not join your children at the kitchen table with
some schoolwork of your own? Using this time for some of your busy work ensures that you
are available to them if they have questions and need help. Let your kids test you before
exams and quizzes, and use any discussions you have as opportunities to help you
understand what it is you're really learning. Show your kids how excited you are about
what you're doing. Chances are, it may just be contagious. |
