We've all been there: The race starts on Monday and between soccer, karate and ballet practice we drag across the finish line into Friday.  Families are  more stressed (especially around the holidays) than ever before and getting homework finished in one sitting just isn't going to happen.  Here's a fast idea:  First, make sure your child has everything they need to complete their homework for the day before leaving school.  Are they required to bring home a study book for the next days quiz?  Does your child have their math book, spelling words or have they written down their essay questions? Next, while running around town for those after school appointments (doctor, orthodontist, ect) have your child (and their siblings) work on a few problems while you sit in the waiting area.  Finally:  Avoid the witching hour of temptation and I'm not talking about midnight.  It's the diner hour. While you're sifting through the freezer, trying to figure out what you can defrost in ten seconds, your little X-Box finatics have taken the Lucky Charms hostage and are now killing off storm troupers.  Turn this scenerio around:  While getting diner ready,  have your child work on a few more problems before eating (give them a choice: Fifteen minutes or fifteen problems), and then allow your favorite gamer some free time. Your child will get a sense of accomplishment in crossing off some items from their long list of homework.  By the time your family sees the finish line Thursday night,  you will all have won the race.