Whether it’s a research paper, a book report or a diorama of ancient Egypt, independent projects can drive parents crazy. They don’t find out about them until the night before; they don’t understand what the teacher wants; and, they don’t know how to help. When your child has an independent project coming up, here are four questions your student should be able to answer:

1. What does the teacher expect me to turn in? Finding the answer to this question will save you from a last-minute dash to the store to buy supplies. If your child can’t find the assignment sheet, have your child check the teacher’s web page or look in backpack for something that may have been misplaced.
   
   
2. What is the topic? If your child can tell you in a single sentence what the topic is, then it is likely that your child knows what to do.
   
   
3. When is it due? Have your child mark this date on the calendar. Teach your child to finish before the deadline. Show her how to break large projects into smaller chunks.
   
   
4. What steps do I need to complete to finish the project? This is the time for you and your child to schedule trips to the library for research and to the store for supplies.

If your child can’t answer any of these questions, it’s time for your child to talk with the teacher to get the information needed.