Some children may find it difficult to do their homework. At times, they feel anxious, scared or lazy to do it. Given that homework plays a crucial role in your child’s development and learning, you should guide them appropriately.
Here are some tips to help you.
- Address the Root Cause
Why does your child need help with homework? Are they too young to do homework independently? Did they not understand what the teacher taught in the class? Do they feel tired or sluggish? Do they want to go to play before completing the homework?
Ask your child. Observe their behaviour. Perhaps, you will be able to find a pattern that needs your attention to deal with this issue.
- Establish a Routine
Just the way there is a routine for your child to get up in the morning and go to school, there should be a routine for homework too. Fix a particular time during which your child would be comfortable doing the homework. For example, one hour after returning from school, before going to the play or after coming from the play. Try to pick a time when your child feels energetic and happy.
You can involve your child in the decision-making so that they get a sense of responsibility. You can also hold them accountable if they don’t adhere to the timing they suggested.
- Give Them a Dedicated Space
Ideally, a child should have a dedicated space to do homework. This space should be clean, well-lit, well-ventilated and distraction-free. A proper environment will put your child in the right mind space to do homework regularly.
- Use a Reward or Punishment Strategy
If your child needs too much coercion to do the homework, it might be a good idea to give them some incentives to get them interested. For instance, they can get 15 minutes more playtime with friends, 10 minutes of extra screen time on weekends or an ice cream treat.
Alternatively, you can also try the punishment method. For example, you can cut off their play or screen time if they don’t finish the homework.
Once the child establishes a homework routine, you can discontinue the reward or punishment strategy.
- Plan for Homework Breaks
A break would do good for your child if there is more homework for the day or they have a short attention span. You can let them take a break for 5-10 minutes after half an hour of homework.
- Sit with Them
Sometimes, children don’t know how to plan their homework or which subject they should take up first. The other times, they simply don’t know how to solve a math sum or write an answer to a question.
If you sit with them, you will be able to identify their weaknesses and work on them. Your presence will also give them confidence. Once your child shows your improvement, you can reduce the time you sit by their side and review their homework after they complete it.
Would you like to share some more tips with the readers?
