The majority of elementary schools in the greater Houston area assign students homework daily. Homework reinforces the concepts they’re learning, increases their comprehension, and keeps them from falling behind.
However, in many apartment communities, children aren’t able to receive the help they need to complete their homework. Often parents work long hours so they can’t devote the time needed to help their children with homework problems. Additionally some parents aren’t native English speakers or simply don’t have the knowledge needed to assist their children with their homework.
Because of this, many children in these apartment communities arrive to class with unfinished homework. This can cause children to fall behind.Instead of reaping the benefits of homework, they receive low grades for incomplete work. Poor grades can decrease self-confidence and create a poor attitude towards school, beginning a cycle that negatively impacts learning.
After noticing this problem in the communities, we decided to implement Homework Help as a part of our after-school program. The moment the kids arrive at the Kid’s Club, they begin working on their homework. They receive help from Kid’s Club leaders and volunteers who are more familiar with the English language and better equipped to answer questions.
When they come home from the Kid’s Club, the children don’t have school work to do. They can spend time with their family and help out around the house. This takes a weight off parents’ shoulders as they no longer have to worry about helping their children finish homework.
With our Homework Help program, the children return to school with their homework completed and a better understanding of the subjects. Their grades improve, increasing their self confidence. They are better prepared for assessments because they have greater comprehension and confidence. These benefits improve the student’s overall academic performance, keeping them on track to graduate.
