Homework is a very important part of school. To help kids get back into the swing of things:
- Make sure there’s a quiet place that’s free of distractions to do homework. If possible, make this a space other than a child’s bedroom — this can help with establishing a good bedtime routine.
- Don’t let kids watch TV when doing homework or studying. Set rules for when homework and studying are to be done, and when the TV or other devices can be used and when they must be turned off. The less screen time, the better, especially on school nights.
- If your kids are involved in social media, limit the time spent on it during homework time.
- Keep text messaging to a minimum to avoid interruptions.
- Never do their homework or projects yourself. Instead, be available to help or answer any questions, as needed.
- Review homework assignments nightly — not necessarily to check up, but to make sure kids understand everything.
- See how long it takes your child to do their homework. Spending too much or too little time on homework may be something to discuss with their teachers.
Encourage kids to:
- develop good work habits early, like taking notes, writing down assignments, and turning homework in on time
- take their time with schoolwork
- ask the teacher if they don’t understand something
Build good homework & study habits
Create an environment that is homework-friendly starting at a young age. Children need a consistent work space in their bedroom or another part of the home that is quiet, without distractions, and promotes study.
Schedule ample time for homework. Build this time into choices about participating in after school activities.
Establish a household rule that the TV and other electronic distractions stay off during homework time.
Supervise computer and internet use.
By high school, it’s not uncommon for teachers to ask students to submit homework electronically and perform other tasks on a computer. If your child doesn’t have access to a computer or the internet at home, work with teachers and school administration to develop appropriate accommodations.
Be available to answer questions and offer assistance, but never do a child’s homework for her.
Take steps to help alleviate eye fatigue, neck fatigue and brain fatigue while studying. It may be helpful to close the books for a few minutes, stretch and take a break periodically when it will not be too disruptive.
If your child is struggling with a particular subject, speak with their teacher for recommendations on how to help your child at home or at school. If you have concerns about the assignments your child is receiving, talk with their teacher.
If your child is having difficulty focusing on or completing homework, discuss this with your child’s teacher, school counselor or health care provider. For general homework problems that cannot be worked out with the teacher, a tutor may be considered.
Some children need extra help organizing their homework. Checklists, timers, and parental supervision can help overcome homework problems.
Some children may need help remembering their assignments. Work with your child and their teacher to develop an appropriate way to keep track of their assignments – such as an assignment notebook.
