If you have kids in grade school then you know first hand how challenging it can be to get your children to do their homework without a fight. Well with six kids of my own (and one more on the way) I’ve learned a thing or two about homework.

Teaching your child the importance of education at a young age and encouraging good study habits will help them throughout college and beyond.

Routines are Key: Together with your child, develop a schedule and an after school routine that will work for both of you. Discuss the things your child feels are most important and allow time for those activities within the schedule or routine, too. Every kid is different and one set schedule doesn’t work for every child; so figure out what will work for you and allow for an hour (give or take depending on age) of homework time every evening. Once you solidify the routine, stick to it for a few weeks. If it seems to be working poorly, reevaluate it with your child to create something better.  If it’s working well, encourage your child to continue.

Create a Special Space: It’s important for your children to have a homework space that’s away from the television, cell phones and other distractions. Designate a homework area just for your child! Involve them in the design of the space by taking them shopping for a desk, lamp, organizational system or something special that they pick out to be a part of their homework space. If they enjoy the space, they’ll be more likely to spend time working on their homework.

Do Your Part: While your child is doing their homework you shouldn’t be in the other room watching television or playing a game; that will distract your child. At the same time you probably don’t want to be sitting right next to them the entire time (depending on their age). You want to make sure they’re working at it on their own, while knowing you’re just outside the door or in the next room should they need some extra support or encouragement. Utilize your child’s quiet homework time to do the dishes, fold laundry or read a book.

Reward: There are lots of reward systems you can recreate easily within your household. I personally like giving my children small rewards while they work towards something greater. If your child really wants to go to Disneyland, for example, you could decide to pay them a quarter for every hour of homework time. They can save their quarters to pay for something special at Disneyland. Prior to beginning this system lay down the ground rules; decide upon how many quarters they’ll need to earn before you’ll take them on their special trip. And just as important, outline any actions or bad homework practices will warrant your child to lose a quarter.

Whatever you do, encourage your child to study and do their homework everyday. It’s not always the most fun activity, but an education helps pave the way to a bright future.

Happy studying!

Daddy Nickell

Robert Nickell, aka Daddy Nickell, father of 6, offers his “5 cents” worth of advice to expectant and new parents.  Daddy Nickell is the founder of Daddyscrubs.com, delivery room duds and daddy gear for dads, and the Daddyscrubs.com blog where he covers topics about parenting and the latest baby and kids gear, all from a Dad’s perspective.

The post Helping Your Kids With Homework appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Parents often become excited about the changes that come when their baby is ready to switch from breast milk to solid foods. After experiencing this with my six children, I’m here to offer some tips on how to make the transition smoothly.

The Time is Right: There are many ways to determine when the time is right to begin transitioning your baby to solid foods. He (or she) will give you multiple signs when he’s ready; some signs and signals include:

• Sitting up without assistance showing good neck and head control.
• Your baby stops trying to push food out of his mouth with his tongue.
• Your baby is six months or older and has at least doubled in birth-weight.
• Begins waking more repeatedly in the night wanting to eat.
• Has the ability to determine when he feels full by refusing to continue eating.
• Shows an interest in food by watching closely when you’re eating.

How Do I Start?: First you’ll need to gather the supplies. A soft-tipped spoon is a must; you can pick one of these up at any baby supply store. If you are going to make the baby food on your own, you’ll need a food processor to puree the foods. Otherwise, you’ll need to pick up a couple of jars of baby food from your local grocery store. Personally, I like to begin with vegetables like squash, carrots and sweet potatoes along with fruits such as bananas, apples, peaches and pears. At first, your baby will probably only eat a couple of teaspoons at a time; begin by offering only small bits of food once a day and increase by teaspoons, as he seems ready.

Healthy Practices: Always remember, healthy eating practices begin at a young age. I encourage new parents to blend up their own baby food; this will allow you to switch things up and present your baby with more adventurous palates – when the time is right.

There are numerous recipes and books available today. Check out one of my favorites, The Best Homemade Baby Food on The Planet, at our Bookstore.

Please keep in mind every baby is different. When in doubt, check with your pediatrician to help determine when your baby is ready to begin eating solid foods and which solid foods are appropriate for your baby.

Happy eating!

Sincerely,

Daddy Nickell

Robert Nickell, aka Daddy Nickell, father of 6, offers his “5 cents” worth of advice to expectant and new parents.  He is also the founder of Daddyscrubs.com, delivery room duds and daddy gear for dads, and the Daddyscrubs.com blog where he covers topics about parenting and the latest baby and kids gear, all from a Dad’s perspective. 

The post Transitioning Your Baby to Solid Foods appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.