While some lucky parents find their children enjoy getting stuck into their homework, more often than not parents find the task of getting the kids to do their homework a major bone of contention. 
 
We have some tried and tested tips on how best to get homework done in the evening:
 
A suitable work area:
Ensuring that your child has a suitable work area to do her homework is first and foremost. Doing homework lying on a bed or on the floor is definitely not a good idea. They should have a comfortable seat at a desk or table in a quiet room.  It’s a good idea to be close by so if they do need help you won’t be far off.
 
Peace and quiet:
There should be no distractions such as the television or games consoles left switched on as it is impossible for children to concentrate on two things at once. If they are watching television, they cannot apply themselves to their homework. The best way is to explain to your child that without distractions, they will get the task done far more quickly and they will then have lots of time for watching television and playing games.
 
Having what they need:
Make sure that your child has everything they need before they sit down to do homework, from pens and papers to books and a laptop. This will get rid of the excuse of ‘I don’t have what I need’.
 
Importance of routine:
Develop a routine by getting them to start their homework at the same time every day. Don’t get them to start too late as by then your child will be tired.  While this does seem like common sense lots of children whinge and complain so much about starting their homework that parents sometimes give in and allow them to start later. Sticking to the same start time for homework every day helps them to develop a routine.
 
You should ensure that your child is sticking to the homework time that is recommended by their teacher. If your young child is spending more time doing homework than is recommended, you may need to speak to his teacher. He may be having a problem, need extra help or may simply not be applying himself. Your child’s teacher will be the best judge of how long it should take them to complete the homework and may be able to offer a solution.
 
Offer your child encouragement but give him plenty of space to do the homework alone. When your child asks for help, it’s easy to be tempted to give them the answer to speed things along so you can get on with other tasks. However, it’s so important that they do the work themselves. You can offer encouragement by acknowledging that it may be difficult,but also notice what they have already done and encourage them to do a little more work. This will help them to realise that they have already done some of the work and it’s not as hard as they think. It also shows that you understand that it’s difficult but that you believe that they can do it for themselves.  
 
Revised, completed work:
Let them have a reward when they finish their homework. Children have a long day at school and then have to complete their homework so it’s nice for them to know there is a reward at the end of it all. The reward could be something simple like watching a television programme, playing a board game or going on a nature walk together. The reward will be a great incentive for them to get their work done.
 

Latest

Trending