Homework

We all know the dread of ‘My homework is due in tomorrow and I can't do it!’ All children are different, some like homework and some really don’t, which can make it difficult for parents.

We understand that as parents it can be challenging to navigate the crazy life of work, sorting the children, doing the food shop, walking the dog, driving to yet another after-school activity - or anything that adds another thing to your to-do list. 

So when it comes to your children getting upset and refusing to do their homework, it’s understandable that you might want to throw the towel in too – trust us, some of us are parents, we’ve all been there at some point! 

Should Parents Help with Reading and Homework?

Experts say that parents who read with their children and help with homework not only enhance their children’s learning but also demonstrate the importance of education.

When parents show they care about their children’s homework and offer help when needed, it teaches children to be responsible. Children understand that they are accountable for their own academic success. This helps them learn to manage their time and stay organised to take initiative in their learning journey. 

Helping with reading and homework can also be a chance for parents and children to bond. It allows parents to create special moments of sharing and interaction, and above all, to better understand their children’s interests and strengths. 

Children, for their part, realise that they have someone to help them, which gives them confidence and encourages them to develop resilience and take on challenges.

10 ways Parents can Help with Homework

Create a Conducive Homework Environment

Find a quiet spot, with good lighting, to help your child concentrate on homework. It could be a corner of their room or the kitchen/dining room table. Avoid places with distractions like TV or noisy siblings. If possible, try to get children to do their homework together.

Make sure the area is comfy but not too comfy – you want them alert, not sleepy. Adding personal touches like their favourite motivational quotes or some artwork can make the space inviting and positive and make homework feel less like a chore. 

Some children like the room to be quiet, whilst some work better with music on. Ask your child what works best for them.

Establish a Reading/Homework Routine

Consistency is key to getting homework done. Choose a regular time for it, whether it’s right after school or later in the evening. This routine helps children know what to expect and makes homework feel like a regular part of their day. Remember to encourage your child to read for 15 minutes every day, either to you, or independently if they are older. 

Incentives

• Use visuals, get your child to create a homework chart with fun stickers, colours and paper and each time they do their work they can tick it off or reward themselves with a sticker. This can work particularly well for younger children.  Older children - maybe not!  
• Make sure that children know that after homework is finished that they can have some free time to do something that they enjoy. 

Set Realistic Expectations

Be realistic about what your child can achieve with homework. Every child is different, with their own strengths and areas for development. Don’t put too much pressure on your child to be perfect – it’s okay if they’re not top of the class.

Focus on their effort and improvement. Always celebrate their successes, no matter how small, and encourage them to keep trying. The most important thing is that they give their best - not have to be the best!

Tailor Your Approach to Match Your Child’s Learning Style

Every child learns in their own way, so adjust how you help with homework based on how they learn best. Some children like seeing things visually, whilst others learn better by doing or listening.

If your child is a visual learner, pictures or diagrams can help them understand better. For hands-on learners, try doing activities together. And if they learn by listening, talk through things with them. Adapting to their style can make homework more effective and less frustrating for both of you.

Provide Guidance Without Doing the Work for Them

You're rushed, dinner is nearly ready, and you are still trying to work through the homework - It is so tempting to just give your child the answers when they’re stuck on homework, or it appears to be taking a long time. But please try not to, it is so much better for your child if you guide them to find the answer themselves.

We all learn best when we figure things out on our own, children are no different.  Instead of just telling them what to do, talk with them and ask questions to help them think through a problem.

Let them try to solve the problem on their own and always give lots of praise and encouragement for their efforts, even if they make mistakes.   

Know When to Step Back

To help your child be more independent, know when to let go and when to let them take charge. 

Give your child space, but be there if they need help with homework. Trust that they can handle it, and let them know you believe in them. 

Recognise downtime, play and when a snack might be needed

Taking breaks during homework sessions to avoid getting too tired or stressed can be an efficient way to help with homework. Plan short breaks after each piece or after a certain amount of time, depending on what works best for your child. These breaks can be a chance for them to relax, stretch, or have a snack/drink. None of us can concentrate if we're thirsty or hungry!

Plan Fun Activities 

After homework is done, it’s time to have fun! Plan activities as a family to celebrate finishing work. Playing games, watching a favourite show, or going to the park – these activities can be a reward for all your hard work - theirs and yours!

By doing fun things together, you’re showing your child that hard work pays off and giving them something to look forward to after finishing their homework.

Talk to Us

Talking to your child’s teacher can give you a lot of helpful information about how they learn and how they’re doing in class.  Teachers see them every day and can notice things you might miss at home. 

We don't want children to worry about homework.  If your child is finding homework difficult or is struggling to engage, then come and have a chat with us. We can work together to support your child’s learning at home and make a big difference in helping them succeed.