Top Tips for Helping Your Child with their Homework

It would be difficult to find a child who actually enjoys homework. There are so many other, more interesting activities they could be doing, that most of the time they try and put it off for as long as possible. However, parents should try and emphasise that homework is a priority and help their children where possible. Here are some top tips from an independent boys’ school in London.

Encourage a Routine

Start by encouraging your child to follow a routine after school so that everything becomes a force of habit, including homework. Of course, what works for one family might not work for yours, so don’t worry if your routine is a little different to some of the other kids at your child’s school. For instance, they may be quite groggy after school and require a break and a snack before completing their homework. Other kids might prefer to just get it out the way and relax afterwards. Regardless, try to emphasise to your child that their homework takes priority over leisure time, chores and socialising. 

Set Up a Homework Space

Make sure your child has a quiet, comfortable space in your home where they can complete their schoolwork. This shouldn’t be in the same room as the TV, or their games consoles, because they won’t be able to concentrate on the task at hand if they know that there’s something better lurking in the corner of the room. Instead, they will rush through their work so that they can play. Make sure the study space is equipped with all of the necessary stationery and books so that your child doesn’t have to waste valuable study time searching the house for equipment. 

Be Patient

There’s no denying that it can be tough to find time to help our kids with their homework, especially when we’re busy with our own work and running a household. However, letting your child know that you are available to help them should they need it, you will go a long way in encouraging them to focus. If they get stuck and don’t feel as though they have anyone to turn to for some support, they’ll be far more likely to give up. With that said, try and be patient with your child if they are relentless with their questions.

Encourage Independent Research

Answering the homework questions on your child’s behalf won’t do them any favours. Firstly, the teachers who mark the work won’t know that your child struggled, and therefore won’t be able to help them improve. Secondly, your child won’t learn how to find the answers independently. With that said, teach them how to research to find information they need. Help them understand the differences between a good and a bad website, as well as using a glossary to find information in a book.