Set a Daily Kumon time and stick with it. Setting a daily Kumon time makes it easier for both you and your child to ensure that Kumon is completed on a daily basis and it sets Kumon as a priority in your child's life. Some families find it easier to do Kumon first thing in the morning (after breakfast) while others find it easier to do it right after school ( as a warm-up to homework). No matter what the routine stick to it.
Be Committed You can't expect your child to commit to Kumon if you can't. If your child sees you are willing to yield to homework or centre visits they will adopt the same attitude. Make an Effort to be involved in your child's study Speak to your instructor about home marking and take an interest in what your child is studying. If they see that Kumon is important to you it will become important to them as well. Ask your child how they feel about the work (too easy or too hard) and ensure that they have shared that with their Kumon instructor.
Lead by Example Use the time while your child is doing Kumon to catch up on your own personal paperwork (paying bills, scheduling weeks, etc..). Explain to your child that he/she has his/her work to be responsible for and you have yours. This will help your child feel like you are working together.
Praise your Child Remind your child that you understand how hard they are working and praise them not only for doing well on the work but also for getting the work done (with their time and name written on the front page).
Speak to Other Kumon Parents Next time you are at the centre speak to other parents about what they do for their children.
When the going gets tough, get tougher Don't forget that you are the parent and he/she is the child. Remind your child that the homework is his/her responsibility.
Penalties If you choose to give penalties for not completing Kumon remember that they are most effective if they are immediate in nature ( i.e. if you don't do your Kumon this afternoon, you can't watch TV).
Rewards Rewards that relate to long-term goals are most beneficial (i.e. If you do your Kumon everyday for a month we can go to see a movie of your choice).
