Seven tips for homework success

Here are some easy ways you can set your child up for better concentration when doing their homework.

Helping children focus on their homework isn’t always easy – distractions are everywhere and the lockdown years are still impacting kids’ ability to concentrate. This can be tough after a long school day when your little one still has homework to complete. But, with the right approach, you can definitely make homework time a smoother experience! Here are some simple and effective ideas to help your child stay engaged and confident while tackling their schoolwork.

A calm space

A dedicated study area makes all the difference. Try to find a quiet corner, free from distractions like TV and mobile phones, where your son or daughter can settle in and focus. It’s best to make sure their workspace is comfortable and stocked with everything they need – pens, paper, a ruler and even a favourite snack nearby for motivation.

A homework rhythm

Kids thrive on routine and setting a consistent homework time each day can help them develop strong study habits. Some students work best straight after school, while others need a break first – experiment to find what works for your child and aim to stick with it!

Break it down

Big assignments can feel overwhelming, so a little help goes a long way! It’s good to sit down together and break homework into smaller, bite-sized tasks. The Pomodoro technique – twenty-five minutes of focused work followed by a short break – is a great way to keep them engaged without feeling drained.

Ditch the distractions

We can all agree that screens are one of the biggest culprits when it comes to losing focus. Where possible, keep phones and tablets out of reach, unless they’re needed for research. If your little one is working on a computer, you could try website blockers to help keep their attention on the task at hand. Screens are tricky even for adults to regulate their use of, so it’s very important to make sure you’re setting firm boundaries for your child, as it’s difficult for a young person to do all by themselves!

Brain breaks

Sitting still for too long might zap kids’ energy levels, so encourage a couple of short breaks to reset their concentration. A quick stretch, a run around the garden or a snack can help them return to their work feeling refreshed and ready to go.

Don’t hover

It’s tempting to stand over your son or daughter to make sure they’re getting everything right, but too much involvement can make them anxious. Be available to answer questions, but also give them space to work independently and build their confidence.

Don’t forget praise

Praise goes a long way in keeping kids motivated. Instead of just focusing on results, try to acknowledge their hard work and perseverance. Little rewards, like an extra story at bedtime or choosing the weekend movie, can also give them something to look forward to.

Helping children develop focus takes patience, but with encouragement and consistency, they’ll gain the skills to tackle their homework with confidence – and maybe even enjoy it along the way!

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