School’s back in session which means it’s homework time. And for some families, the idea is dreadful, conjuring up memories of arguments, tears, screams, and late nights. It doesn’t have to be that way. Here are seven suggestions for easing the homework burden and turning the daily chore into something more manageable, and maybe even, more pleasant.
- Make it social. Doing homework with a friend or a small study group can be incredibly helpful to everyone involved. Behavior is often better, and there’s a certain camaraderie involved that makes the task more pleasurable. Some schools offer after-school homework clubs. If it isn’t an option at your child’s school, try setting up your own mini-homework club with a friend or two (classmates who you know will work on homework and not play around).
- Try different locations. Most teachers will tell you that homework should be completed at the same time and in the same location each day. For some families, this restriction doesn’t fit with their daily schedules. And for some students, that restriction is too prohibitive. So get creative. My son and I have worked on homework at the public library, the local mall’s food court, in a book store, and at Grandma’s house. (As a bonus, temper tantrums may be greatly reduced when you’re outside the confines of the privacy of your own home).
- Use food. We all need a little extra incentive. After a long day at school, not all children are eager to tackle fraction homework. Take your child for an after-school treat and get some homework done. Try an ice cream, a smoothie, or a warm pretzel.
- It doesn’t have to be silent. Some children need absolute quiet, but not all children. Some children will respond really well to soft music playing in the background. Rather than distract them, it actually focuses them. Try classical, movie scores, or international music.
- Movement. Our children have spent most of their school days in a very unnatural position — sitting down. No one says homework has to be completed the same way. Get up and get moving, especially when it comes to reviewing and studying. You can walk, jog, climb, jump, bounce, hop, or pace to review multiplication facts or study vocabulary words.
- Take a break. It doesn’t always work to “plow through” with homework. Some children need a break immediately after school before they can tackle their night’s assignments. Other children can get right to work, but then may need an intermission during homework. Set your timer, remain firm, and give your child the break he needs.
- Empathize. Some homework will be tedious, boring, and maybe even unnecessary. Some homework won’t be fun. Don’t try to pretend that it is. Empathize with your child, and remind your child of the tasks you need to do that are a part of your job that you don’t particularly enjoy. (For me, it was weekly staff meetings and cleaning the toilets at home).
