Kids are more successful in school when parents take an active interest in their homework — it shows kids that what they do is important.

Yes, regardless of all the efforts to escape the rigours of home tasks and the teachers’ persistence to make the children complete theirs, homework does contribute significantly to the learning process. It develops in students the study skills, instills work ethics early on.

Solving problems independently and managing time to meet

home tasks deadlines boost the confidence of students.

Parents can be supportive by demonstrating study and organization skills, explaining a tricky problem, or just encouraging kids to take a break. And who knows? Parents might even learn a thing or two!

Here are some tips to guide the way:

1.   Know the teachers — and what they're looking for. Attend school events, such as parent-teacher conferences, to meet your child's teachers. Ask about their home tasks policies and how you should be involved.

2.   Make sure kids do their own work. They won't learn if they don't think for themselves and make their own mistakes. Parents can make suggestions and help with directions. But it's a kid's job to do the learning.

3.   Be a motivator and monitor. Ask about assignments, quizzes, and tests. Give encouragement, check completed homework, and make yourself available for questions and concerns.

4.   Set a good example. Do your kids ever see you diligently balancing your budget or reading a book? Kids are more likely to follow their parents' examples than their advice.

5.   If there are continuing problems with homework, get help. Talk about it with your child's teacher. Some kids have trouble seeing the board and may need glasses; others might need an evaluation for a learning problem or attention disorder.

6.   Praise their work and efforts – For younger students especially, instant feedback is needed. It’s OK to correct mistakes, but make sure to praise your child for her efforts too and emphasize what she has done well. She may be more inclined to do a good job the first time if she knows she will get your praises.

If homework still becomes a struggle, make sure to be in constant communication with your child’s teacher(s). Some children may need a little extra help.

While many teachers spend some class time teaching study skills, students often need more guidance

I hope that by applying these expert techniques in tackling hometasks, you will be able to make your child look forward to accepting the homework challenge and win it with flying colours.