Get unstuck and underway

When your child is having a hard time getting started on an assignment, remind them that the directions very likely hold the information they need to get themselves unstuck and underway. Too often, students skim directions quickly or skip them altogether and miss key elements of an assignment. To give your child the best chance at success, try reading the directions with a purpose. Circle the direction words which are usually verbs like describe, explain, or show, and underline what those words are asking them to do. The direction words will very likely provide your child with the starting point they need.