Homework is a big part of almost every child's life, since it’s the best way to ensure they are learning the new things they need to know for the next school year. And for many children, it can feel like a chore.
But it doesn't have to be this way – a wonderful teacher can help them learn better. With a bit of help, and a lot of love, homework can be fun and rewarding for the whole family.
Here are 10 helpful tips to help your child focus on their homework.
1. Create a Suitable Space For Homework
Children who don't have a place to do their homework can feel hopeless and discouraged. Make sure you have a height adjustable desk available specifically for your child's use, as well as plenty of space, so they’re not cramped while they're doing their homework.
Let them have fun with colours and decorate the area so it feels cheerful when they're doing their work.
2. Remove Distractions From the Study Area
While a bit of noise is fine while your child is doing their homework, you don't want a lot of noise to distract them. Let them know they should keep the TV and music turned off, and if phones stay on, they should switch them to silent or vibrate mode.
Many kids can get so wrapped up in their work that even the smallest distraction could derail them. So it goes without saying, but make sure you don't distract them either!
3. Use the Right Tools
An adjustable desk with a good, ergonomic chair at the correct size is one of the best tools your child needs to focus on their homework. Make sure you have them!
If your child has trouble focusing, try getting some headphones that block out all external sounds. Soothing music can help them get into the proper frame of mind to focus.
4. Set a Schedule and Stick to It
You should assign homework to a specific time of the day. This will allow your child to know exactly where they are supposed to be, and it will help them avoid drifting off and losing track of where they are in the work. You can use a homework planner, or you can just choose time slices that work best for each student.
Children need to have a routine in place so they can know what comes next. So explain to them what their plan is and help them stick to it.
5. Don't Set Unrealistic Expectations
Insisting on unrealistically high grades could discourage your child from trying, and they may want to slack off and not try at all.
If you're worried about your child's marks, don't nag about it. Instead, let them know you're proud of what they have accomplished so far. Bonus points if the work is on the more challenging side for your child.
6. Allow For Plenty of Exercise and Sleep
Children who don't get enough exercise and rest will have trouble maintaining their concentration and energy levels, which will make it hard for them to focus on their homework.
Make sure your child gets at least 8 hours of sleep per night and that they’re doing some kind of physical activity every day.
7. Make Homework Fun
Don't be afraid to get creative when helping your child with their homework. Try making it into a game or asking them to teach you what they learned at school that day. This will make them look forward to doing their work, and it will help you learn as well.
For some kids, having fun with homework is one of the best ways to improve. Make up a game that involves using maths skills, or writing out what they know about a historical figure. They'll be more likely to want to do it, and it'll help them integrate the information better.
Homework is a big part of a child's education, but you don't have to let it become a chore for either of you.
8. Be Encouraging
Try encouraging your child regularly when they're learning new things, and praise them every time they accomplish something new. This will help them build confidence and make sure they enjoy doing their homework.
Part of doing their homework will involve showing it to their teacher. Make sure you praise your child for the things they've done correctly, and encourage them to keep things up! Offer encouraging words when they're having trouble finding answers or completing assignments on time.
9. Offer Rewards For Success
When your child puts in an honest effort and gets good marks on their work, reward them. A small reward can make a big difference – so make sure your child knows they’re doing well by giving them a reward after they complete their work.
10. Stay Positive and Remain Calm
If you go into this with a positive attitude, you can help your child and help yourself at the same time. Don't get overly worked up over every mistake or problem they have; just be there to support them as they learn. If things get out of hand, try reining in any negative emotions before they affect your child, who may feel confused or frustrated by the situation.
In conclusion, homework can be a chore for many kids, but since we all know that it's an essential part of their education that helps them learn, having ways to make it more enjoyable is always a plus.
We hope these tips will help you work with your child to make homework a rewarding part of their education.
