Discipline Suggestions:
Does your child sometimes test the limits you set for him/her? It’s easy to get frustrated when he doesn’t listen to you. Having a clear plan for handling unacceptable behavior can help you stay calm and get him back on track more quickly! Try the following suggestions:

Communicate clearly:
If you find yourself repeating instructions several times before your child “hears” you, try getting his attention first. You might gently touch him on the shoulder and say his name. When he makes eye contact, state exactly what you need him to do.  

Explain rules:
Your child will be more likely to follow rules if he understands the reasons for them. Trying to explain while the misbehavior is occurring can lead to an argument. Instead, wait until he’s calm! Let your child know the consequences of breaking a rule.

Look for reasons:
When your child has a day where he keeps getting into trouble, find out if something is bothering him. Encourage your child to talk to you about his/her day at school. This is a good to do even if your child had a good day at school. Allowing your child to talk to you about a problem may help break the cycle of misbehavior!

Homework Tips:
When your child is doing homework and asks you for the answer to a problem or question, should you step in? When it comes to homework, thinking of yourself as the coach and your child as the player can keep your roles straight.

Here are some tips:  

Make a schedule
Help your child figure out the best time to do homework. For example, if he starts assignments during after-school care, he might play when he gets home and finish his work after dinner. Then, try to fit in family activities around his homework schedule.

Understand the game plan
Remind your child that it’s his job to keep track of assignments. He should write down teacher’s directions and bring home books and worksheets. You can help by listening as she explains the instructions and by stocking your home with school supplies (paper, pencils, and markers etc…).

Stay on the sidelines
Be available if your youngster needs support but let him know that you won’t do his work. For example, if he asks you to help with a poster about a famous scientist, you might take him to the library to check out a biography of the scientist he is researching. Resist that urge to jump in!  

Encourage your child to always try her best, but remind her that it’s okay if she doesn’t know all the answers!