What do you think of when you think of homework? Stress? Frustration? Unhappy kids? This does not have to be the case. Our educational team put together some simple and easy strategies that will help reduce the homework stress. Grab a cup of tea, read and take notes. Make today’s homework session a success with our expert tips!
Goals & Expectations:
Set goals & expectations with your child. Allow them to provide their input when setting up the goals. Make sure the goals are realistic to each child individually. For example, set a goal to complete all the harder subjects first. This can help reduce the frustration level for your child especially if they have loads of homework on any given night.
Set Up a Homework Routine:
Setting a homework routine is key. Will your child begin homework after a short break? Will they begin homework while having a snack? You decide what works best for your child. Ask them what they prefer. Be sure you are consistent with your routine and that your child is aware of the routine. Your routine may be different on days that you may have extracurricular activities planned. However, keep those routines consistent on those days.
Stay Organized:
Staying organized is huge to reducing stress. Make sure that your child has a planner or calendar to mark down all due dates. You may want to make note of their upcoming tests, projects and presentations on the family calendar. This reminder will keep everyone on track.
Be Available:
Make sure you are available to help your child during homework however do not hover over them. Offer to help them after they have attempted the work at least 3 times on their own. This will give your child a sense of independence and accountability.
Making the homework time less stressful is important to maintaining a happy home. However, setting up the goals and rules are unique for every child and family. Keep the following tips in mind when making homework rules: keep them short and simple, keep them posted in a common area and be consistent with your rules & routines.
We hope these tips were helpful! Cheers to a successful and stress-free homework time!