Today’s kids are busier than ever. Hours of school are often followed by extracurricular activities, family time, and futile attempts to unwind from hectic schedules. The growing demands on their attention and time can lead to inconsistent homework completion and performance, which can go on to affect their overall academics. However, with a little intentional parenting, your children’s homework burden can become a manageable responsibility. Here are three practical tips for handling homework.
Establish a Routine
Research has proven that school-aged children thrive when given routines. Ergo, when it comes to homework, kids need structure and predictable patterns to help them stay on track. Help your children by talking to them about what their after-school time should look like. You may be able to agree on a “playtime and snack break” prior to sitting down in a quiet location for homework. Other kids may want to get their homework out of the way immediately. Whatever the case, discuss the routine, put it into action, then stick to it.
Teach Time Management
Time management can be the determining factor in whether you have a happy, well-adjusted child or a stressed, on-edge child. No one (not even adults) enjoys feeling like they are always behind the ball, or playing catch up. So why would your child? That’s why it’s imperative to intentionally teach your little one an effective system they can use to manage their after-school time. Time management covers:
- How long should each assignment take?
- How will I keep track? (timer, stopwatch, hourglass, etc.)
- What will I do if I take longer than I planned?
- Will I have a reward for finishing in the allotted time?
- Do I get to take breaks? How long will my breaks be?
Use Outside Resources for Help
Sometimes your children’s homework will be outside of the scope of your knowledge or memory, and that’s okay. As a parent, it’s not your job to have every answer to every problem. Your only responsibility is to find alternative resources that can help, for those rare situations that fall outside of your jurisdiction. Here are a few scenarios that may offer assistance:
- Hire a Tutor
- Internet Assistance:
By teaching your children study tips, you are equipping them with the necessary tools to lower their stress levels and become more successful. Helpful lessons like these are exactly what intentional parenting is all about. As soon as you start implementing these three essential skills of homework management, both you and your children will notice improved results.
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