Getting kids to do homework can feel like an uphill task for many parents. Doing homework is an important part of their dedication, but the struggle to complete it can be tedious and frustrating.
Students may often handle homework with reluctance but it comes with several benefits. It not only reinforces classroom learning but also cultivates essential life skills. Regular homework sets a solid foundation for academic success and personal development.
Parents who are struggling to find ways to get their kids to do their homework can benefit from practical homework tips for parents, as stated in this blog. These strategies aim to make homework time a smoother, more productive experience for you and your child.
Looking for private tutors? Book a Free Trial Lesson and match with top tutors for concepts, homework help and grade improvement on Wiingy today!
Top 10 tips on how to get kids to do their homework
1. Understand your child’s perspective
Children often resist homework because they see it as a chore, especially after a long day at school. Understanding their viewpoint can help you find better ways to motivate them.
Every child adapts things differently, and what motivates one might not work for another. As parents, find out what makes your child enthusiastic and use that to encourage them.
For example, if your child’s interests lie in sketching or drawing, then use visual techniques to complete a particular homework.
2. Create an ideal study environment
You can create a study space, personalized according to your child’s learning preferences. Homework space can make a big difference.
Select a quiet, well-lit area with all the necessary study supplies handy. You can use their color of choice or any color that accelerates learning and productivity to paint the wall aligned to the study space or for the curtains.
Make sure that the study space is surrounded by minimal distractions. Keep toys, electronic gadgets, and other distractions out of the homework area. A decluttered zone can help your child concentrate better.
Helping children with homework can significantly impact their academic success, but it requires strategic approaches grounded in research. According to the American Psychological Association, creating a structured and distraction-free homework environment can improve focus and productivity.
3. Follow a routine
Dr. Harris Cooper, a professor of psychology and neuroscience at Duke University, emphasizes the importance of a consistent schedule, suggesting that children benefit from a regular homework routine as it helps them develop self-discipline and time management.
Work out the routine and timetables with your child so that they feel a sense of contribution and own up to it. Teach them how to balance homework with leisure.
Balance is very important. Ensure that they have time for play and relaxation. This balance can prevent burnout and make them more willing to do homework.
4. Practice reward system
A positive attitude towards children can be a powerful motivator. Set up a reward system where your child earns small rewards for completing homework. This could be extra screen time, a favorite snack, or a fun outing.
According to an article posted on Education Week, creating rewards for your child indulges them into a habit that they want to repeat in order to receive awards. Once you’ve figured out your rewards, you might want to know how many repetitions it takes to make a habit. Is it 21? 66?
Try to create a classroom environment where you check their work and give stars based on their performance. Post an aced test or art project on the refrigerator. Mention academic achievements to relatives.
5. Incorporate breaks
Short breaks during homework time can improve focus and productivity. Encourage your child to take 5-10 minute breaks after 20-30 minutes of work.
Break activities should be refreshing and quick. Basic muscle stretches, a brief walk, or a glass of water can help rejuvenate children to resume their homework. Make sure that children do not spend time excessively on social media while on their breaks.
Erich Zeller, Instructional Consulting Manager at MIND, suggests to incorporates breaks, like 15 minutes of work followed by a 5-minute break. If homework takes too long, talk to the teacher about the expected duration.
6. Take additional help
Sometimes when parents are not fully available to help their children with homework, it is better to take additional help. This also includes online tutoring services. You can opt for Wiingy, Wyzant, and Khan Academy for the best tutoring catering to your child’s learning needs.
Afterschool Tutoring also teaches children to take responsibility for their homework. Parents do not have to micromanage their child’s educational progress.
You can book a free lesson at Wiingy. It will help your child match with the perfect tutor per their needs and learn at their own pace. If your child for some reason does not want to continue, Wiingy replaces the tutor free of cost for further lessons. The lessons start at just $28/hr.
7. Make homework fun
Turning homework into a game can make it more fun. Use unique techniques like MCQs, competition, challenges, and rewards to keep children engaged.
If anywho parents find difficulties in managing a gamified environment to make their children do homework. Wiingy tutoring services can fulfill your learning preferences. Wiingy tutors use interactive tools to teach children and engage them in solid conceptual building, homework help, and assignment and project guidance.
Creative tools like educational apps, like BrainPOP Jr. and Quizlet, and colorful stationery make learning enjoyable and less monotonous.
8. Seek guidance from teachers
Maintain regular communication with your child’s teachers. This helps parents stay informed about their progress and any areas where they might need extra help. Through small interactions, you can understand your child’s weak and strong points, and accordingly, you can help them with their homework.
A study in the Journal of Educational Psychology found that parental involvement promoting autonomy, like guiding problem-solving instead of giving answers, enhances children’s academic performance and motivation. Additionally, engaging with teachers to understand homework expectations can help tailor support to align with educational goals.
Be clear on the school’s homework policies. This knowledge allows you to set appropriate expectations and support your child effectively.
9. Address learning difficulties
Encourage your child to be prompt in disclosing their learning difficulties. This includes signs of consistent poor performance, frustration, or exam stress.
If these issues are not detected early can lead to procrastination and incomplete assignments or homework. Hence, helps them tackle resistance to doing homework or studying overall.
If you suspect learning difficulties, consult teachers, be it online or online. You can access a wide range of tutors online that provide targeted strategies to support struggling students.
10. Learn to cope with the tantrums of your child
Remain calm and patient during a series of resistance or tantrums of children. If parents react with frustration it can escalate the reluctance. Instead, approach it with understanding and composure.
Try to keep the process simple. Do not engage yourself with your child about homework. According to an article by empowering parenting.com, convey that the sooner they complete their school tasks, the sooner they can have free time and get to bed. Say this in a supportive way with a smile on your face.
Parents need to set out consequences calmly so that the homework can be completed without tears. Say this in a supportive way with a smile on your face.
Looking for private tutors? Book a Free Trial Lesson and match with top tutors for concepts, homework help and grade improvement on Wiingy today!
Conclusion
Navigating the homework journey with your child can be challenging, but it is not impossible. Parents should understand their perspective, create a supportive environment, and use encouragement methods. You can help children make homework time more productive for them and less stressful for yourself.
Make sure you are patient and consistent with children. With the right approach and techniques, you can assist them in developing good study habits that will benefit them throughout their academic career and beyond.
Other useful reads
Transition from Middle School to High School
Transition from High School to College
Benefits of Afterschool Tutoring
Frequently asked questions on homework tips for parents
How can I motivate my child to do homework?
To motivate your child to do homework, establish a consistent schedule and create a quiet, comfortable study space. Break tasks into smaller sections with short breaks, and encourage autonomy by guiding problem-solving instead of providing answers.
Use positive reinforcement, connect homework to their interests, and stay involved by showing interest in their work. Set clear goals and offer small rewards for completion to make homework time more engaging and productive.
What are the best homework tips?
The best homework tips include establishing a consistent schedule and creating a quiet, comfortable study space. Break tasks into manageable chunks with short breaks, and encourage independence by guiding problem-solving rather than providing answers.
Use positive reinforcement and connect assignments to your child’s interests to make learning more engaging. Stay involved by showing interest in their work, and set clear goals with small rewards for completion to maintain motivation and productivity.
What should I do if my child consistently resists doing homework?
Stay calm and patient. Try to understand the root cause of their resistance and address it. Use techniques like gamification and breaks to make homework more engaging.
Why do parents struggle to help with homework?
Parents often struggle to help with homework due to various factors such as a lack of understanding of the subject matter, differences in teaching methods from when they were in school, time constraints due to busy schedules, and difficulty in balancing support without taking over the work.
Additionally, some parents may find it challenging to motivate their children or manage conflicts that arise during homework time.
Is it okay to help my child with homework?
Yes, it is okay to help your child with homework, as long as you do so in a supportive manner that promotes their learning and independence. Guiding them through problem-solving, providing explanations, and offering encouragement can be beneficial.
However, avoid completing the work for them, as this can hinder their ability to learn and develop important skills. Balancing support with fostering autonomy helps your child become a more independent and confident learner.
