Parent to Parent: Homework Help

WSVN -- As parents, we want our kids to be successful in school.

Boy: "I need help."

But getting through those nightly homework assignments can be a nightmare.

Rena Coats: "Reading, science, math."

That's why John Kee, the athletic coordinator for the city of Miramar, came up with the "Power Hour," an after-school program to help kids with their homework.

John Kee, Athletic Coordinator for the City of Miramar: "As a parent myself, you get home from a grueling day of work, and you have your young kid come and ask you to help with the homework, and sometimes your mind is just not there."

The program also teaches kids how to help themselves.

John Kee: "We teach them how to research. We teach them how to reference. We also try to promote self-directed learning."

Rafena Abdullah: "Come on, let's go!"

Rafena has two kids in the program. She says since her day starts at 5 a.m., the program has been a life saver for her family.

Rafena Abdullah: "Sometimes having another person to help them and assist them in their homework, things will flow better."

Her 10-year-old daughter Halima is an honor student and says she accomplishes a lot here.

Halima Abdullah: "I did homework. I wrote a story, and it was a very good story."

10-year-old Rena is also learning a lot.

Rena Coats: "Then they say read this, and if you need some more help, just call me."

She likes doing her homework here, because at home, patience can run a little short.

Rena Coats: "My mom just gets so mad so quick, then I just get a headache so much. I'm like, 'Oh my gosh!'"

And the best news for these families: the cost is really affordable.

John Kee: "The cost is $5 a week for Miramar residents and $10 for non-residents."

Lynn Martinez: "John's program is open to all Broward County residents, but of course, there's homework help for families in Miami-Dade County as well."

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Power Hour
Homework Assistance Program
Ansin Sports Complex
10801 Miramar Blvd.
Miramar, FL 33025
Monday-Thursday
2:30-4:30pm Ages 6-10
4:30-6:30pm Ages 11 & up
Tel: (954) 602-4990

S.M.A.R.T. Program
101 W. Flagler Street
Miami, FL 33130
Tel: (305) 375-3563
E-mail: smart@mdpls.org