For those older elementary children who resist doing homework, this elaboration of a suggestion by Dr. Phil may be helpful Step 1: Parents design an A Life Style, a B LifeStyle, and so on Step 2: Child earns Life Style by completing certain tasks. Earning B grades on homework would give child a B Life Style for that evening. Or, at end of week, whatever the grades average would earn that Life Style for the next week. A child could earn the A Life Style by not receiving any homework slips. Or an evening's life style could be earned by completing homework, without being reminded more than once, say by 6:00 Step 3: Everything should be written out and posted Step 4: After the original discussion, there should be no negotiation. Do not discuss the life style or what work has been done or not done. Do not talk about it at all. In other words, no talking, no expression of feelings. This creates peace. Step 5: Follow through with consistency Step 6: Expect some resistance early on, but this life style approach can encourage responsibility and independence. Some suggestions for Life Styles: A Life Style: Unlimited time TV, electronic games, computer use or talking with friends B Life Style: One half hour for each of two choices TV, electronic games, computer use, talking with friends C Life Style: One half hour for one choice TV, electronic games, computer use or talking with friends D Life Style: None of the above Keep in mind that both life style and expectations have to appropirate to the child. For some reason, TV may not be an interest. For others, a C is a good grade; work and effort are what counts.