FollowMaking Homework Easier for your Child — And You!
Most children start coming home from school with homework in first grade. It may sound early, but it’s to help prepare them for later grades when they will be expected to complete this for multiple subjects each night. For some kids, getting this work finished at home can be a total nightmare – and frustrating to their parents too!
Luckily, there are some ways to make homework easier for your child – and you!
1. Homework should come first!
When your child arrives home from school, homework needs to be one of the first things he completes (aside from maybe a snack or trip to the bathroom). Putting the work off until after dinner or a bath could lead to your child being tired, unfocused, and not at all interested in getting things done.
2. Have a designated spot.
Set up a special location in the house where this is to be completed. This can be as simple as the dining room table, especially if you have more than one . Keep common school supplies, such as paper, pencils and erasers, nearby to eliminate the need to move around while working on it.
Pro Tip – You may have to find more than one spot if siblings don’t get along well while working side-by-side.
3. Avoid outside distractions.
Being distracted can double the amount of time it takes for them to complete their work. It also presents a lot of stress, with you constantly having to remind him to focus and him becoming frustrated at the reminders and disturbances. The TV should stay off during homework time. Younger siblings should be playing in another area of the home so they aren’t distracting your school-aged child.
4. Be patient with your children.
Homework time needs to focus on each individual need, and personal speed when it comes to finishing the work. Avoid trying to rush him through it, or he is likely to get irritated with you. This can also create problems with his grades. Also, refrain from doing your child’s work in order for him to be finished quicker. Have patience and offer help when asked.
5. Allow for small breaks.
As your child advances in school, they are likely to have more and more work assignments to complete. If the assignments he brings home is causing him to sit for more than 20 minutes, let him take a 5 minute break. This will allow him to get up and release built up energy while clearing his mind to continue working. Just be sure to refocus them after the break so that it gets done.
6. Encourage and praise them for completion.
This is especially important for kids that despise schoolwork. Be a supportive parent and reward them when they have done well with their homework. It can be something simple as an edible treat, more TV/play time after work is finished, or a trip to the mall. Verbal praise throughout these sessions and after will also encourage your child to continue excelling in school.
How do you make this task easier for your children – and yourself?
