How to Avoid a Homework Battle With Your Children

Homework is a necessary part of the learning experience.

After a long day of school, children rarely return home eager to start their homework. In most cases, they have spent six or seven hours learning and following instructions and would rather run around, play a game or watch television. Encouraging children to complete assignments can result in an argument for many parents, but homework is critical to a student's academic success. It reinforces concepts and allows children to practice using new skills. With a few tips, you can decrease your children's resistance and help them become more responsible about homework.

Instructions

1. 

   Walking the dog is an active break from schoolwork.

   Allow your children at least 30 minutes of free time after school instead of requiring them to complete assignments immediately. If you cannot offer free time, ask them to help you with an active task such as walking the dog or folding laundry. Encourage them to do something physical.

2. Give your children a break from thinking about their classes. Let your kids share stories from the day if they choose to, but do not bombard them with questions about school and homework.

3. 

   Celery and peanut butter is a tasty, healthy snack.

   Offer your children some food. Allow them to relax and have a snack since the last time they ate was probably between 11:00 and 12:30. Encourage healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains or dairy. Try dried apricots, carrot sticks, wheat crackers or low-fat yogurt.

4. Invite your children to teach you as they complete their homework. Pretend to be the student. Give your children the opportunity to feel "in charge" and confident about what they know. Make some mistakes and encourage them to correct you. If the homework involves reading, allow them to read out loud or take turns with you. Siblings can also partake in the fun.

5. 

   Star stickers are fun and colorful.

   Give your children positive feedback. Find something they did well and let them know. Create a special homework chart where they can collect stars and stickers for completed work.

Tips & Warnings

• Establish good homework habits, including a routine time and effective place for studying.

• Never use homework as a punishment or your children will associate it with bad feelings.

• Speak calmly about homework rather than raising your voice.

• Be enthusiastic about the homework topics.

References

• University of Illinois Extension; Study Habits and Homework; 2011