Homework is perhaps the most challenging thing relating to schooling that parents deal with. While a few students are highly motivated and self-directing, many need considerable coaxing to get their required homework tasks done. Some students refuse outright. And in today’s modern world with so many distractions such as television, the internet, and social media in particular, it can feel for many parents that they are fighting a losing battle with their kids over homework.
But all is not lost – there are ways parents can regain the upper hand and win the homework battle…
And yes, it can be a literal battle – a battle of wills. It can lead to anger and tears, hurt feelings and frustration. Many parents are unsure of their role and responsibility regarding homework. How much should you stand over your child so they complete their homework? Should you assist, and if so, how much?
One thing student information systems can help a school keep track of is student compliance with homework tasks and assignments. Are they handed in on time? Is the work of high quality? Are they completed at all? But what can parents do at home?
Here are some tips to help:
- Understand the expectations of teachers relating to homework. This is easier in elementary and middle school than it is in high school – older students need to be given autonomy. The buck literally stops with them.
- Mind how you communicate about homework. In the first place, offer your child a choice: do they wish to do their homework before or after dinner? At a certain time? Before or after a preferred activity? This rewards them with freedom of choice, but leaves no doubt that they will be doing their homework.
- Negotiate with them by offering a reward. After homework is complete, they can play a game on the computer, chat with a friend, watch TV, etc.
- Show interest but don’t be intrusive. Younger kids will often appreciate help and interest from their parents; older kids will probably want you to be hands-off, yet showing interest and being encouraging can be extremely beneficial and, while they may not admit it, most teens will appreciate it as long as you’re not overbearing. Offer to look over homework and assignments when they are complete, but don’t take over or become a proverbial “sergeant major.”
- Don’t get into an argument over homework. This removes the sense of a power struggle – and many kids (especially teens) seem to spoil for a fight with parents whenever they can. Remove the option.
- Be positive about learning and foster a sense of achievement. Whether it’s your own work that you bring home or even necessary housework, demonstrate that there are things to be done by all of us and that completing them brings its own sense of achievement and reward. “Work now, play later.”
- Focus on what your kids do well, and praise them when they achieve. For some a high achievement will be an A; for others a C is a great achievement. Offer encouragement when they do well and solutions to help when they can improve.
- Help your child create a routine that includes homework time, relaxation time, family time, friends time, etc. Creating to-do lists can be very helpful for many of us too – crossing off tasks as they are done is satisfying and brings its own tangible sense of achievement.
These are just a few of many ideas that can help you win the battle over homework – for your child’s academic benefit and your own peace of mind.
