What Is a Homework Contract?
A well-written contract points out your child’s homework responsibilities point by point. It also helps them understand how you can help guide and work with them in order to keep their assignments under control. There are also some good reminders for parents. Simple things like designating a distraction-free homework zone in the house and maintaining a healthy, balanced schedule with extra-curricular activities are important.
Sample Student-Parent Homework Contract
Use the contract below as a guide and edit it as necessary. Just remember that a homework contract isn’t about punishing a child for failing to complete assignments. Rather, it’s a tool that both you and your child can use to stay organized. It’s also a reminder to you both that your child’s school experience and success depends on both of you.
Student Responsibilities
I will keep track of my homework assignments every day and write them on an agenda or my binder before leaving each class.I will bring home all books and workbooks needed to finish my homework assignments.If I don’t understand a homework assignment, I will ask my teacher for more information.I will make sure I know when my assignment is due.I will obey classroom and school rules and follow along when the teacher is teaching.I will let my parents know when I need school supplies that will help me complete assignments. This includes pencils, pens, paper, graph paper, poster board, glue, markers, calculators, etc.I will find a quiet location to finish my assignments so that I’m not distracted by the television, computer or my cell phone.I will complete my assignments before I watch television, text my friends or play on the computer.I will let my parents know if I do not understand an assignment or if I am having trouble keeping up in class.I will allow my parents to quiz me, tutor me or help me understand any material I am struggling with.
SIGNED _________________________________ (Tween’s Signature) DATE ___________________________________
Parent Responsibilities
I will provide my child with a quiet place to study that’s free from distractions. I will stay up-to-date on my child’s progress in school. I will provide a calendar for my child to keep track of assignments, projects, and other school demands. We will display this calendar in a visible spot such as the kitchen or family room. I will make sure that my child has the supplies they need to finish their assignments. If my child is struggling with a homework assignment, I will offer suggestions and advice, but will not complete the assignment for them. I will be patient with my child when they do not understand an assignment, and I will keep my emotions in check. I will communicate with my child’s teacher if they are struggling with a particular subject. If necessary, I will find a tutor for my child or enlist them in an after-school tutoring program. I will encourage my child to read every day. I will encourage my child to do their homework when they’re the most alert (such as in the afternoon or early evening). I will not over-schedule my child with so many extra-curricular activities that they cannot keep up with their homework assignments. I will monitor my child’s television time, computer time and time spent texting so that they have ample time to complete their assignments. I will talk with my child every day about their school experience. I will offer my child positive encouragement and will acknowledge thier efforts. I will adjust this homework contract as necessary to meet my child’s school needs.
SIGNED _______________________________ (Parents’ Signatures) DATE _________________________________
