Homework

Homework is a great way for students to practice the skills we are learning in class and build independence at home. Every Friday, a new homework packet will come home and will be due the following Friday. This routine will continue throughout the school year.

A Change for First Grade

As the year goes on, first grade will eventually transition away from weekly homework packets. Instead, students will bring home any unfinished classwork from that week to complete at home. This will help students take more responsibility for completing their work and give them an opportunity to finish anything they were unable to complete during the school day.

I will send families a message ahead of time when this change will take effect.

Parents: Help, Don't Do!

Parents, your support makes a big difference! Homework is meant to be an opportunity for students to practice and show what they know, so please encourage your child and help them when needed, but allow them to do the work themselves.

You can help by:

Reading directions together
Asking questions to help your child think through a problem
Encouraging your child when something feels difficult
Helping your child tap out a word
Reminding them to check their work

The goal is not perfect homework, the goal is learning, practicing, and building independence!

Letter & Number Formation

Correct letter and number formation is an important skill we will continue practicing throughout the year. When practicing at home, please remind your child that letters and numbers should always be started at the top and formed by working down. We do not start at the bottom and work our way up.

We will practice these same writing habits at school, so using them at home will help your child build strong and consistent handwriting skills!

Even a few minutes of fine motor practice can help strengthen the muscles students use for handwriting!

Fine Motor Skills

Strong handwriting starts with strong fine motor skills! Fine motor activities help students build the hand strength, coordination, and pencil control they need for writing.

Homework Should Not Be a Stressor

Most importantly, I never want homework to become an extra stressor for students or families. I understand that families have busy schedules, and I want homework to be a manageable part of your child's routine—not something that causes frustration, tears, or stress.

If your child is becoming frustrated or something feels too difficult, please stop and reach out to me. I would much rather know that your child needs additional support than have homework become a negative experience.

We are all on the same team, and my goal is always to make learning a positive experience for your child!

Page updated

Report abuse