Taking the 'work' out of Homework
For many parents, the hours between the end of the school day and bedtime might include some serious drama if their kids don't enjoy doing homework. These power struggles can feel like a virtual tug-of-war where everyone seems to lose. Many kids strongly resist completing their assignments, but there are simple solutions available and ways you can use technology to your advantage. Struggles may be everywhere in the world, but they don't have to show up when it's time to do homework.
Are you looking for more strategies to help your kids reach their full potential? Work with Josephine Opie to learn more about strength-based parenting, or check out the blog for great parenting tips!
TOOLS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
Little can be more undermining for your child than working hard to get through a tough subject or assignment, and having no response from you. When your child demonstrates improvement or completes a major undertaking, be sure to present them with something special as a gesture of encouragement. Rewards can come in the form of a simple gold star, a favorite meal, or something truly special like a device to assist with play and homework alike.
One of the advantages of a tech-oriented, multi-functional reward is that since it is used for both work and pleasure, your child will associate it with good things. It’s a simple way to encourage your child to have a happier mindset about homework.
If you don’t already have an appropriate device, there are plenty to choose from. Tablets are a particularly good choice for kids since they are lightweight and portable, allowing them to cart them to school, the couch, or the backyard, and a well-chosen tablet is useful to everyone in the family. Just make sure you buy a sturdy case to keep the tablet well-protected. Drops and spills can happen at any time, after all! Some cases even come with a stand so you can easily prop up the tablet for studying or play.
You may find your child looking forward to homework time if it means they can work on their tablet. And since a tablet is so versatile, you will find a million and one ways to put it to use for your family.
FINDING MOTIVATORS
Just like adults, Family Education notes kids benefit from breaking down big projects into manageable sections. This technique creates a sense of accomplishment once tasks are completed, which serves as a strong motivator to continue. Giving your child a quick check-in periodically as they work and praising their efforts will help them to feel supported, loved, and motivated.
Apps like Duolingo can help your child learn multiple languages, while DragonBox helps with math skills. Tutorials can help make learning more fun, like those from RoomRecess and YouTube, where they can learn to play the Star Wars Theme on the piano. Educational sites like CuriosityStream are also a gold mine for learning, with documentaries that will interest the entire family. Do a little surfing and you’re bound to find some fun learning resources that are just the right thing for your child.
IDENTIFYING CAUSES
Your child's resistance to completing homework may not be just an expression of youthful rebellion. Sometimes there is a collection of factors that can be easily addressed, helping to solve the issue at hand.
First, it's important to make sure that your child's needs are taken care of after school with a snack and a brief rest to decompress after school. Just like adults, children need their downtime. Next, ensure that your child has a good spaceto work where they feel comfortable, focused, and motivated. If you offer your child a pleasant environment in which to work, this will assist your cause.
If homework wars are the norm for your clan, it's important to take some time to consider your options. Responding with a loving approach is likely to go a long way, especially when it includes appropriate tools and earned rewards. Your youngster will feel like a winner knowing you’re in their corner, helping to take the “work” out of homework!
By Guest Blogger, Beverly Nelson
