Age group(s) for which this strategy is helpful:
Elementary School
Middle School
High School & Beyond

Instructions for using this strategy:
Use this technique when homework becomes a battleground of tantrums and tears. If your child is upset over an assignment and you are becoming angry and frustrated, just sit out that inning! Have someone whoÆs calmer--a spouse or an older child--step up to the plate. What to do if your relief pitcher isn't at home? Call him, or email! The homework helper is always the calmer person--even if it means you both take turns with your child until the homework is done.

Other information parents should consider:
A variation of this technique would be to hire another person to work with the student, either at home or at school.