A Take-Home Test
Thursday, February 16, 2006; 9:57 PM
Think your kids have too much homework? If so, you're in the minority, according to a poll by the Associated Press and AOL Learning Services. Fifty-seven percent of parents think the amount of homework their kids have is just right.
Women spend an average 46 minutes a day helping with homework. Men spend 35 minutes. Think that's good enough, parents? Not according to teachers. Ninety percent of teachers think parents should spend more time? with their kids doing homework.
Are teachers right? How much time do you spend with your kids on homework? Do you wish you had more time? Send your thoughts to parenting@washingtonpost.com. I'll post some responses in next week's newsletter.
Of course, by high school, your child is likely leaving you in the academic dust. More and more students are taking advanced classes -- one in three will take an AP class in high school.
The increase in numbers and diversity is creating new challenges for educators, as the percentage who pass the classes decreases. Some teachers meet one-on-one with students on Saturdays; others are helping with studying and organizational skills.
Although Smaller Class Sizes Are Touted, Some Say Bigger May Be Beneficial
Struggling Children
Every child struggles with something in life, be it school, friendships, emotions or behavior. Most learn to meet their challenges or simply outgrow them. But how do parents know when their child's problem is serious enough to require professional help?
Author and neuropsychologist Richard F. Newby will be online today at 10 a.m. to answer questions for parents who suspect their child has a problem but don't know how to get help.
Newby is the coauthor of "Your Struggling Child: A Guide to Diagnosing, Understanding and Advocating for Your Child With Learning, Behavior or Emotional Problems," which helps parents recognize the symptoms and seek the right diagnosis for their child. Submit your questions for Newby before or during the discussion. Can't read the discussion as it happens? Come back later and read the transcript.