It is important to establish a routine for homework. It not only ensures that school work is completed on time but also teaches important life skills like how to prioritize, manage time, motivate yourself, and how to receive delayed rewards.
This is a crucial skill that should be taught early. Their ability to do homework and then study will make a huge difference in their future education success.
Inventing a homework routine that works
Talk to your child if this is the first time you are trying to establish a routine for homework. Discuss with your child what will happen and why homework matters. Talk to them about what a reasonable time frame might be. This expectation can be guided by attending a parent information session.
It is important to have a positive attitude about education and learning from a young age. This will help you develop a love for learning throughout your life.
A simple reading time in the afternoon can be a great way to help your preschooler get used to having a regular learning routine.
Create a “sanctuary” for homework (with a designated spot)
A dedicated area for homework is important, and it should be the same space each day. A desk at the office or a table at the dining room table are acceptable. The key is to keep it clear and clutter-free. There should be no TVs or computer games and it should not be occupied by siblings. Respect their need to be alone and quiet.
You may have to supervise homework for a group of children if you have many. It is important that homework be completed efficiently and without getting upset or yelling at your children. It is better to create a homework environment that works for you than try to manage homework in an environment that has been against you since the beginning.
Timing is important because every child is unique
A homework schedule that is completed soon after school ends will be most beneficial for your child. This will ensure that the lessons are fresh in your child’s mind and they don’t become tired. Start with a brief homework period to help your child concentrate. Gradually increase the time. You might break down the homework into two parts, and reward your child with a brief reward.
Consider a morning homework session if you feel that afternoons are difficult due to personal circumstances, or lethargy. This is especially important for the young years.
It’s nice to get out of the house for afternoon tea or breakfast at a local café.
Set up a reward system
Children are good at accepting rewards and can be motivated by using them. You don’t have to give a lot of money; a small reward after homework is done can suffice. Consider gradually reducing the reward as the child grows older and the routine becomes more regular. Keep in mind that praise is a great reward for children, so don’t forget to keep the good vibes coming.
It is important to praise the effort and the improvement rather than the results. Remember, kids can be motivated by being curious about what they learn and the work they create.
Participate wherever it is necessary
It can be difficult to complete homework. It is normal to struggle with homework. However, if your child becomes particularly frustrated, you can offer help. You will play an important role in homework, guiding your child towards the right answer and congratulating them on their successes. As they get older, your guidance will be less about providing answers and more about reinforcing their routines and supporting them with time, space and snacks.
Your child should not associate homework with frustration, inadequacy or helplessness. Positive participation can also be a reward for the routine and help reinforce it. Talk to your teacher if you notice that your child is struggling to do their homework on their own.
Other quick tips
- You can fuel them while they work. You should ensure they have food to eat and water to drink. It’s as important as teaching them how to study well.
- Purchase more pencils, rubbers, etc. You don’t need more pencils and rubbers than you think. You should ensure that their homework area has all the necessary equipment to help them complete their assignments. This will save them a lot of frustration and unnecessary movement from their chairs.
- Try out different music. Music is a great way to get your kids involved. Some children will be more focused in silence while others will respond better to music.
- Some kids will prefer to break down their homework into smaller chunks over a few days. Others will be more eager to do it all at once. Let them decide their own pace and support them in making these decisions.
It is important to remember that consistency is the key to developing routines. Also, it takes time for a routine or habit to develop. Here are some additional resources to help you as a parent of school children.
Summary
- Discuss homework with your child to reach a mutual understanding.
- Set up a homework area, and give the students the tool.
- You and your partner should agree on a time, but you must stick to it.
- Take an interest in others, and praise them often with specific praise.
- Establish a reward system.
- It’s okay to help your child with their homework.
This post is intended to help you set up or support your homework. Please feel free to leave any suggestions for other parents below.
