Frequently Asked Questions

1. My child feels that she is being bullied in school. What should I do?
2. I don't understand the Make Your Day program. Can you help me?
3. I can't get my child to do homework. Do you have any suggestions?
4. My child says he doesn't have any homework. Is that true?
5. I'm really annoyed (upset, angry, etc.) at this teacher.

My child feels that she is being bullied in school. What should I do?

Bullying is not tolerated at West Shore.  Your child should tell an adult as 
soon as she feels uncomfortable.  That adult will deal with the situation 
immediately.  Repeated bullying will require your child to fill out a 
bullying form (available outside Mr. Finn's office).  We will 
make every effort to make sure your child feels safe at school.

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I don't understand the Make Your Day program. Can you help me?

Information for the Make Your Day program is located in the front of your 
child's assignment pad.  This may help answer questions you have.  If you 
still have questions, any teacher can help you.

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I can't get my child to do homework. Do you have any suggestions?

One suggestion that parents say works is not allowing children to watch 
television, talk on the phone, play video games, or do any other thing they 
like to do until all homework is complete.  A short break (30 minutes) 
right after school, however, may be warranted.  Set a timer, if you need to, 
so that both you and your child knows that break time is over.  

A timer can also help in another way.  If you have a child who is 
overwhelmed by the work he has, first make sure he has a well-lit, clear 
work space and any tools he may need (books, pencils, paper, etc.).  Then 
have him start one assignment (move every other assignment out of sight).  
Ask your child how much of the assignment he thinks he can do in 15 
minutes.  Use your judgment and adjust this, if needed.  Have him tell you 
when he is done. This will help you determine how much work he should be 
able to do next time.  Set the timer and let him work alone.  Repeat the 
process until all homework is done.  Your goal is to have your child do his 
homework without you, so consider eventually having your child use this 
technique himself.

If you find that your child is frustrated and does not understand the work, 
contact the teacher as soon as possible.

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My child says he doesn't have any homework. Is that true?

The assignment pad is very helpful here.  Check it nightly for homework and 
then have your child show you the completed assignment. This does not mean 
you have to go over the work with your child.  

If you see a lot of empty spaces, question it.  Your child should have 
something written in for every subject (or an indication that there is no 
homework).  Give him a consequence at home if he doesn't.  If you see that 
he frequently has no homework in a subject, you should contact the 
teacher to find out for sure.

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I'm really annoyed (upset, angry, etc.) at this teacher.

First, take a few deep breaths.  Unless the problem needs to be addressed 
immediately, you might even wait a day or so until you feel you can calmly 
discuss the situation. Then call the teacher and tell him/her how you are 
feeling and why.  Many times the situation can be straightened out with a 
phone call.

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