5 Steps to Homework Success

Has your child’s homework load ever stressed you out?

If so, you’re not alone. Studies say that 1 in 5 parents think their kids have too much homework. And this is across the spectrum of kids from elementary through high school. 

We all know homework loads can vary from school to school and that school workloads start to pile on as our kids get into middle school and high school. To most parents, this is normal… because it’s what we grew up with. That's all we know. 

However, perhaps unlike when we were children in school, it’s not uncommon for parents to admit doing homework assignments for their kids. 

Although parents do not have ill intentions for their child, doing their homework for them can be detrimental in the long run. 

Psychology professor and homework expert, Dr. Harris Cooper says, “research shows that all children, even young children, learn better when they bring home school assignments. The key to success is that the assignments be appropriate to the student’s developmental level and home circumstances. For young children, homework should be short, simple, and lead to success. Older students can have more challenging assignments that involve both practice and the integration of skills.”

Cooper gives some key tips for parents to help their kids succeed in homework, here’s how:

1. Create a study space free of distractions.

Designate a well-lit area in your home that is a distraction free zone for your child. If your child is easily drawn to the TV, perhaps you need to move them into a more private location in your home. Gather all their necessary materials, drinking water and allow them a space for dedicated study. 

Read more about motivation tips here.

2. Be a role model and do your own homework.

Cooper suggests that parents do complementary activities while their children are completing their assignments. For example, if your child has a reading assignment, turn off the TV and pick up a book to read. Help your child see how their homework can translate into practical things you do as an adult.

3. Help guide them through frustration.

It’s difficult to watch our kids struggle and sometimes tempting to just to make things easier for them by doing their work. When our children get frustrated doing their homework, it’s actually a great learning opportunity for parents to help them problem solve. Together, you can lean into the problem and help guide your child step by step to overcome their challenge. 

In some cases, you may notice that your child is spending hours on a single assignment that should only take 20 minutes. When this happens, it is helpful to let your child take a step back and have a study break. Do something different and resume later. If you notice persisting problems with a particular assignment then you can assess if this is something more serious that may need to be addressed. 

4. Help monitor, not micro-manage.

“Parents have to recognize that the only thing that kids learn when parents do projects for them is that when the going gets tough, Mom gets going. And that’s not a lesson we want our kids to learn.” Dr. Harris Cooper

Be in the same vicinity as your child when they are doing their homework. Allow them space to work through their assignments on their own. When they ask for help, you can help guide them. Just make sure that you’re not just giving them the answers. The whole point of homework is to provide a reinforcement of what they’re being educated on in class. 

Remember your role as a facilitator. 

5. Be encouraging.

Keep a positive attitude so that your child can acquire the same positive energy towards their homework. 

They will run into frustration and difficult assignments--and that’s ok. Parents are encouraged to step in as a cheerleader. Provide positive affirmations, rewards, or even a cuddle break for little ones. Do what works for your child to help them refuel and be successful. 

Remember, as you implement these tips, you are getting a glimpse into what your child is learning in school and what their academic strengths and weaknesses are. 

We firmly believe that learning doesn’t just happen at school. It is a partnership between the school and home. Knowing how your child is doing academically gives you an opportunity to be an extension of what they’re learning in school. 

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ref: https://www.schoolfamily.com/school-family-articles/article/730-homework-be-a-stage-manager