Written by Ways to help a homework routine run smoothly
By Allison Haslett, Ph.D.
After returning home from a long day at school or work, accomplishing homework can be overwhelming and stressful. Here are some ways to help the homework routine run smoothly to help both parents and children feel relief.
1. Identify a location
Choose a location in the house, or at a library, where your child will complete their daily homework. This space should be free from distractions and have a desk or table that has enough clear space for your child’s books. In addition, the space should contain organized materials your child may need (e.g. pens and pencils, post-it’s, tape, paper, calculator).
2. Set a Time
Set a regular time for your child to complete their homework. This time may vary each day of the week based on after school activities. However, a consistent weekly schedule should be agreed upon (e.g. 3pm every Monday and Tuesday, 5pm on Thursdays, etc).
3. Use a Planner
Your child utilize a homework planner each day. Have your child check their planner at the end of each school day to see which materials they need to bring home. Checking off homework assignments as they complete them will help promote a sense of accomplishment and keep them on track.
4. Take Movement Breaks
Some children may benefit from taking breaks either every 20-30 minutes while completing homework or after they complete a task. These breaks should be about 10 minutes long. Make it clear ahead of time what the breaks may consist of (e.g. playing outside, getting a snack, walking the dog, etc.). If your child has trouble transitioning off electronics, leave those for after homework is complete.
5. Work for Incentives
Your child should choose a fun activity or reward to look forward to after homework is complete!
6. Incorporate Choice
Let your child choose the order in which they would like to complete their homework. Decide ahead of time if and when your child would like to take breaks. Provide your child with a selection of three activities to choose from during their breaks and a selection of three activities they can look forward to once homework is complete.
7. Support your Child
As a parent, you should be close by to your child to support them if they need help or become frustrated.
8. Use a Homework Contract
If your child has difficulty starting or completing homework, consider using a “Homework Contract”. You and your child should sign a “contract” that states the schedule, time, place, and incentives you have set. In addition, you should agree to what you will d as a parent to support your child.
Some warning signs that your child is exhibiting concerning behaviors related to homework include:
- Daily refusal to complete homework
- Frequently forgetting to bring materials home from school that are needed for homework
- Missing assignments and forgetting to complete projects or study for tests
- Kicking, screaming, or crying during homework routines
If your child is exhibiting any of the behaviors described above, you may need additional support. Please contact us through our website at http://www.compasspsychnj.com, by email at info@compasspsychnj.com or by phone at (732) 778-6360
Compass Psychological Services 