How to Get Your Child to Do Homework

Instructions

• 1

  Stay Informed about Homework Assignments
  
  The first line of defence against homework battles is to know what you’re up against. Talk regularly with the teacher about homework assignments. If your child tends to “forget” homework at school or always answers no to your homework inquiries, see if the teacher will work with you to organize a homework folder. Then you can just look inside your child’s homework folder to view the assignments.
• 2

  Make Homework a Habit
  
  Getting your child to do homework is easier when it becomes an everyday task. Brainstorm with your child to figure out a time and place that offers the most motivation for homework completion. Winning homework battles means involving your child in the decision-making process.
• 3

  Have a Homework Zone
  
  Setting up an area strictly for completing assignments may also be helpful in providing motivation for homework. This area should have minimal clutter, noise, and other distractions so that homework is the focus. Have useful homework tools (such as pencils, erasers, and writing paper) within reach to prevent wandering.
• 4

  Provide Motivation for Homework
  
  Giving your child a reason to finish the homework assignment is important. A personal motivator could be a favourite TV show coming on soon, more time with friends, or a fun family activity.
• 5

  Be a Homework Helper
  
  If your child is frustrated by a homework assignment, be there to help. This isn’t to say you should do the homework for your child, but you can point him or her in the right direction by focusing on a simpler problem or asking related questions. A tutor is an alternative if you are unavailable to help with the homework assignment. Even an elder brother or sister can be of use as a homework helper. Showing your child that you care enough to help out (or get help) is sometimes enough to spark motivation for homework.