Schools are now open, and many families can resume their homework battles. DrTimDavis may have noticed that schools are now giving more homework than ever. Parents and children are now faced with a more significant workload. They must keep track of homework, manage time and minimize distractions. Combine reading with busy school schedules, and you have a recipe for stress and tension at home.
My practice has helped many families to manage their struggles and eventually free them from these difficulties. Here are four steps that you can take to help your child get their homework done more efficiently.
1) Homework belongs to the child, not to the parents
It’s tempting to read the heading to this section and say, “Sure, but I won’t get involved. My kid won’t do it!”. We want to help our kids in any way possible, so it’s tempting to take over homework. It is also logical. It’s evident that if kids refuse to do their homework, it can lead to academic problems that are more difficult to overcome. You may worry that your child will get poor grades in high school. This can impact their college options.
The problem is that it sends the wrong message to our children when we assume responsibility for homework. We are implying that we don’t believe they can handle their responsibilities. We empower our children and create the conditions for homework fights.
2) Don’t be the Homework Police, Be the Homework Ally
Establish a time frame for homework. Parents and children find it best to give their children some downtime between homework and school dismissal. This is when other family members should be involved in some quiet activity. Reading with your child, doing your work quietly, and sitting down while your child is working can also be beneficial. You are not only modeling good work habits, but you are also available to help your child if they get stuck.
3) Hire Homework Help
Many homework disputes can be resolved by having a tutor or Executive Function coach. I’ve often seen kids who have been fighting with their parents about homework settle down and get outside help. They complete their work quickly. Parents may assume that homework support will not help their children because they don’t have any academic difficulties. Other parents might feel they can help their children with homework. Even in such situations, getting help from a third party is possible.
