There are a few school-related words that conjure up fear in parents and children alike; words like homework, head lice, and fundraiser. While homework isn’t actually as bad as head lice, sometimes you wouldn’t know such things while discussing the dreaded busy work sent home with students each night. Afterschool time can be very stressful for everyone. Kids come home, they want a snack, and then they want to play. Homework is the last thing on their minds. It can be tricky for parents to get their children to be productive and finish their homework in a relatively timely manner. Whether the issue is a lack of skills, unclear expectations, or simply a heavy homework load, there are a few changes that can be made to ease homework stress for the whole family.
- Provide a healthy snack before sitting your kids down to do their homework. There’s no doubt about it, hungry kids are cranky kids. And cranky kids will whine and whine, without actually accomplishing anything at all. Everyone will be happier with nourishing brain food to feed their minds and fill their bellies.
- Set up a dedicated homework and study area. It’s difficult to focus if there are toys, clutter, the tv, or other distracting items nearby. Having an area clear of chaos makes it easier to concentrate on homework and feel calm.
- Go over the directions. So many children waste time doing their homework incorrectly and having to redo it simply because they did not read or understand the instructions. Take a moment to review the directions and make sure your child understands completely before he begins working.
- Split the homework into more manageable bits and take mini breaks in between. Children aren’t able to sit still for long periods of time. This doesn’t change just because there’s a large assignment that needs to be done. Set a timer for 15 minutes and have your student work as hard as possible. Then allow 5 minutes of running, jumping, dancing, and acting crazy. These ‘brain breaks’ will keep your student from getting too antsy and will help him to stay focused.
- Practice relaxation techniques and provide affirmation. If your child is getting too worked up and stressed about the task at hand, make him stop and take a few deep breaths while counting slowly. Deep breathing brings oxygen to the brain, reducing stress. Be sure to encourage your child along the way and keep a positive attitude, even when he feels like giving up. Positivity is contagious and if you believe he can do it, he will believe it too.
- Don’t scold and be sure there isn’t a bigger issue at hand. If your child is lagging behind, try not to yell or nag. Doing so just increases tension and raises stress levels. Ask if there is a specific reason why he is having trouble keeping up and really listen to his answer. Sometimes children have a disorder like dyslexia that they must learn how to manage, while others may have an issue with their vision. It is important to address these kinds of issues, as they can help determine your child’s future success.
