Despite the challenges, homework still has to get done. So, to help, here are some homework tips you can use to help your kids see homework as less of a chore. Maybe they’ll even find it fun!
Tip #1: Set up a Homework-Friendly Space
Whether your children are attending school in person, remotely or hybrid, having a dedicated homework space is more important now than ever before. Your kids will likely be more interested in doing their homework if they have a part in preparing their study space. Let them help you to create the perfect homework haven by choosing their own pencils, notebooks and other items. This helps them feel more empowered, which can help them focus on their studies.
Tip #2: Managing Extra Screen Time
Pre-COVID, emphasis was being placed on limiting children’s screen time. In fact, we have blogged about that more than once, including this post on screen time limits and this one on tech time for tweens.
But what about now? HealthyChildren.org acknowledges that the use of screen media will almost certainly increase, at least temporarily. What’s important is the strategic use of it. Parents can reach out to teachers to ask what educational content makes sense for their children, both online and off.
The article also says that the PBS Kids newsletter can provide parents of preschoolers with plenty of activities and shows that can be right for them. Horizon Education Centers also put together a list of helpful learning resources.
For children who are feeling lonely because of social distancing, allowing your children to have video chats with friends can be helpful. They can discuss homework and also catch one another up on what’s going on in their lives.
Tip #3: Create and Stick to a Schedule
Some children perform best when they do their homework assignments as soon as school is over. That way, they have the rest of the evening to enjoy dinner, play and get ready for the next day. Others can focus on homework more easily if they eat dinner first. Each family will need to create a homework schedule that fits their unique needs — and this can involve tailoring a timeline for each child, based on what you know about their learning styles.
Tip #4: Use the Reward System
Each child responds differently to different types of rewards. Find out what motivates your child and offer that as a reward. For some, it might be a healthy snack. Others might enjoy playing a game or reading a book — and many kids respond well to having breaks where they can get up and move for a specified period of time.
Tip #5 Overcoming Procrastination
If you notice that your child has the tendency to delay what they dread, simply explaining this concept can help some children overcome procrastination. You can demonstrate how it works in this way. When your child seems to be avoiding a certain piece of homework, ask them to rate its difficulty from 1 to 10 (hardest). Then, have your child work on that homework for five minutes. An hour later, ask them to rate the difficulty again. Often, it’s lower and you can point that out. If the number doesn’t go down, then this may indicate your child needs extra homework help in this area. Either way, this can ease your homework routine.
By using these easy-to-implement homework tips, you will teach your child to develop study skills that will make homework time much easier for everyone.