SLK Learning Center

1. Eliminate distractions during homework time.

Getting children to do their homework can be challenging and exhausting for parents!  Children are in school for seven hours a day – the last thing they want to do is more school work when they get home.  One way that parents can help with the homework process is by eliminating distractions.  Try to make the environment calming and conducive to working.  Here are a few suggestions:

• Turn the television off.  If your child can see or hear the TV, there is a good chance that they are not fully concentrating on their homework.

• Turn the child’s cell phone off.  There is no time for texting during homework!

• Have the child sit on a chair at a table or desk.  The couch is for napping or watching television; not doing homework.

• Have siblings leave the room if they are not doing homework.

• Play classical music.  Studies have shown that listening to classical music can increase a person’s IQ.

2. Be available/nearby to answer questions.  

Most children look for the easiest way to do things.  If they don’t understand instructions or concepts, they are likely to guess what they are supposed to do if there isn’t anyone close-by to ask. 

3. Give lots of encouragement! 

Children need encouragement to keep them on task and to decrease frustration during homework time.  A simple “Good job!” or “You can do it!” takes seconds to say, but has a huge impact on your child’s self-confidence.