Homework time can often be a struggle. Many parents don’t realize that good homework habits must be taught to young children. Here are 7 easy parenting tips you can use at home to help your child be more successful and focused when doing homework.
1. Keep a schedule and stick to it. Make sure your child does homework at the same time each day. A family schedule posted in a prominent place in the house will keep everyone accountable.
2. Designate a “homework spot” in the house. Make sure there is lots of light and that it is quiet. Keep supplied nearby (see Tip #4).
3. Remove distractions to promote good work habits. Quiet background music can help some children focus, but the television should be turned off. Your child should not use the phone during homework time, unless he/she needs to clarify an assignment. Consider having your child do homework at the library if there are too many distractions at home.
4. Create a well-stocked “office” for your child. Just as you cannot work at your office without certain essentials, your child needs supplies as well. Keeping them in one place will encourage your child to stay on task and will cut down on excuses such as “I need a ruler” or “My pencil broke.” Your homework center should include: pencils, pens, erasers, pencil sharpener, writing paper, glue, stapler, tape, scissors, ruler, index cards, calculator, post-it notes, a dictionary, and a thesaurus.
5. Set a good example. Let your child see you reading and writing, and discuss what you read with your child. Encourage activities that support learning. Educational games, library visits, walks in the neighborhood, trips to the zoo or to museums can instill a love of learning in your child.
6. Show an interest in your child’s education. Visit the library, read to your child, discuss what your child is learning in school, attend school activities, and get to know your child’s friends and their parents. Monitor your child’s television shows and encourage your child to tune in to history, science, or literature-based shows that are appropriate for your child’s age. If you are excited about it, your child will be too.
7. Monitor your child’s homework assignments. Don’t be afraid to ask teachers about their expectations or to clarify assignments. When your child is doing homework, make sure you are available in case he/she has questions. Check each night to see that assignments are completed-don’t take your child’s word for it!
By following these simple parenting tips, you are communicating to your child that you take homework and education seriously, and that you want to see your child succeed. When your child sees that you are taking an active role in the homework process, he/she will be more focused and motivated, and homework time will be easier on both of you.
