“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” – Dr Seuss
Homework is often a bone of contention, particularly as children get older. To ensure homework is done with minimum arguments and “nagging”, establish good practice early on:
Where
- Provide a calm place, free from distractions.
When
- Establish a clear routine for when homework is done and stick to it. Children respond well to consistency, so by starting their homework at 5pm for example, this routine will become a habit over time.
- Don’t expect children to come through the door and start on their homework immediately – allow some “chill out” time for a snack , and a drink but don’t let this go on for too long.
How
- Use the “When-Then” technique – “When you have finished your homework, then you can go on the computer/watch TV”.
- Don’t expect children to spend too long doing homework without a break.
- Vary the tasks – if they’ve got a long essay to write, let them spend some time on it, then switch to their maths.
- Screen time can be a reward for after homework is done (using when/then technique as described above).
Be Involved
- Spend some time sitting with them and showing genuine interest in what they have to do.
- Be there to help if they need it. If you’re not sure, look things up together.
Extra Ideas
- Use a sticker chart to encourage young children to do their homework. Keep the chart handy, i.e., on the fridge, and put the sticker on as soon as they’ve finished their homework.
- Remember – praise, praise, praise.
