Take a second to connect with them
while they’re working and invite them
to share with you.

THE DETERMINED CHILD
These active children move swiftly
and like getting things done. Their
natural speed can be a challenge when
it comes to detailed tasks they feel are
tedious or pointless. Homework tips:
Help them see the point
of it. These children will do
homework when they see
the point. If they don’t see
it, they’ll try to get around it
somehow. They’ll pick the grade
they want and do as much as they
have to do to get it done. Help them
see the practical purpose.

Make homework part of the
extracurricular fund. Money is a
great motivator for this type of child.

If you plan to pay for extracurricular
activities, you could attach a money
value to finishing homework. Then,
that money goes to a sport or lesson
they really want. You’ll be spending
the money anyway, and they’ll enjoy
the feeling of accomplishment as
they work toward an activity they
really want.

THE MORE SERIOUS CHILD
These focused children are self-
motivated. But if they’re not
respected for who they are
at school, they’ll buck the
system. It will look like
rebellion, but it’s really just
their attempt to stay true to
their nature. Homework tips:
The respectful phrase. These
children feel offended when you
tell them what to do because they’re
aware of their responsibilities. Try this
phrase: “Looks like you’re doing great.

Let me know if you need help.” Let
them come to you, which they will, if
they think they need help.

Ownership of a space. Set aside
one consistent place (not the kitchen
table) that they can take ownership of
at the same time every day to do their
homework. If possible, get them their
own desk or a place that’s separate
from where everyone is moving
around. Parents, here’s your homework
assignment to end the homework
struggle for good: Set the intention that
you and your child are experiencing
ease and enjoyment as you support
them in their homework. It’s possible,
and you can start today!
Carol Tuttle is the CEO of Live Your
Truth, LLC and author of the best-selling
parenting book, “The Child Whisperer: The
Ultimate Handbook for Raising Happy,
Successful, Cooperative Children.” Visit
thechildwhisperer.com for more info.

PAST MEETS CHRISTMAS PRESENT
Celebrate at Mount Vernon Nov 23–Dec 31
SAVE 20% use code: FAMILY18
Good for up to 4 adult or youth daytime
admissions. Offer expires 12/31/18.

Not valid with any other offer.

mountvernon.org/Christmas
washingtonFAMILY.com December 2018 27