10+ Homework Helper Tips

The school year should be in full swing by now for most of us. We all know that getting homework is not at all fun, but it’s part of going to school and learning. Not only is it stressful for the child, it can be a worry for some parents too. Moms (and dads) who are involved in their kids learning has a better chance of their kids completing homework.

Here are 10 homework helper tips to get your child to complete their homework assignments

1. Organization
A child who learns organization skills are better off than someone who is disorganized. Most schools provide school planners, but not all kids know how to use it or use it daily which defeats the purpose. It’s important for your child to use this tool to keep track of homework assignments, due dates, and anything that will help them remember to do something for school or non school related.

2. Homework Station
It’s a great idea if you have a homework station where your child has access to everything they need. It should be like their own special “office” where there’s a supply of pens, pencils, eraser, pencil sharpener, stapler, liquid paper, crayons, felt markers, paper, dictionary, thesaurus, computer, ruler, calculator etc. If that’s not possible due to space or whatever, you will still want to find designated area for your child to do their homework.

3. Go Over Homework
With your child, look over their homework. If they have a lot, have them prioritize which tasks they can work on first. Simple tasks that don’t require a lot of time should be completed first. This also gives a sense of accomplishment and it makes them feel like they’ve at least put a dent in the work.

4. Be Available
A key to completing homework successfully is knowing at least one parent is available to answer questions.

5. Eliminate Distractions
TV, iPods, and cell phones should be eliminated when they are doing homework. Some kids like and can work with background noise, but you know your child best. If you feel like their electronics is hampering their work or studies, then set some ground rules.

6. Breaks
Taking breaks is important when they have a lot of homework. 10-15 minutes is sufficient for them to grab a snack or drink and stretch their legs.

7. Snacks
Before your child dives into their homework, they should have a nutritious snack and a nice glass of water. This will help them think better and keep their energy up.

8. Track Progress
Check up on your child and see how they are doing with their assignments. What can help them is to keep a checklist of what’s required if their homework has several components. They can then check off which parts are completed.

9. Praise and Rewards
For younger kids and young teens (13-15), giving praise is something kids like to hear especially for kids who have trouble doing their homework. Verbal praises are uplifting and good for their self-esteem, while rewards such as an extra 30 minutes of TV time, or staying up 30 minutes more are good incentives for completing bigger homework assignments.

10. Consequences
It’s not that we secretly enjoy being evil parents, but where there is praise and rewards, there may also be consequences. You child should know up front what is expected of them and what could happen if they don’t complete their homework.

Finally make sure that you are encouraging your child and always use positive words around them. You can set an example and do your “homework” (organize bills, write your to-do list in your day planner etc.) alongside them.

The appetite of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, but the appetite of the diligent is abundantly supplied. – Proverbs 13:4

Copyright © Lara Velez, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved