Homework Help

Well this is a tricky one... homework has always been a contentious issue! For teachers, it's trying to find a balance of giving out the right amount of homework that supports the learning in school and for parents, it's trying to fit it all with everything else that's going on. But the advantages really do outweigh the disadvantages if the right balance is found.

As well as reinforcing the learning in school, homework should spark curiosity and the ability to learn independently, encourage self discipline and good organisation and time management, provide opportunities to practice new skills as well as creating good links between home and school and informing the teacher of any gaps in understanding.

So here are some tips that may help turn what can be an extremely stressful time in to a calm and positive learning experience.

Tip 1: Set up for success

I know this is tricky in a busy household but try and have a special space, with minimal distractions, for completing homework and make sure there is a good supply of pens, pencils, paper etc. Learning to be organised from a young age will have many benefits later in life.

Tip 2: Be a good role model

Demonstrate good working habits to your child (sitting at a desk, organised, focused etc).

Tip 3: Positive mindset

From the moment children start to get homework, if they see it as a positive activity, much like other extra curricular activities, there will be less stress further down the line. And that is the same for adults I'm afraid, it's amazing how many habits (good and bad) children pick up from their parents and if we stress about fitting in homework, then children will do to.

Tip 4: Routine

Most classes will stick to a timetable for handing out homework. This should enable you to set up your own timetable together so that you can plan regular homework sessions around other activities. Of course there will be times when the regime goes out of the window however routine is very important for children and showing them how to manage their time is a skill that will set them up for life.

Tip 5: Let them teach you

Letting your child 'play teacher' is hugely beneficial. Firstly, it's a great way to check the depth of their understanding - can they show you how to do something or have they just learnt the procedure by rote. Secondly, it's a fab way to boost self esteem as children will get a great kick out of teaching you something. It's also a fantastic way to find out the current method, or the schools preferred method, for many maths procedures which have certainly changed since I was at school. And finally, all children love the opportunity to be the teacher, throughout all school years you will see children re-enacting lessons or story time with each other or doing the register and taking it in turns to be the teacher! Even the most reluctant child will spring to life if given the chance to use the big whiteboard and pen!

Tip 6: Empathise

There will always be times when tiredness and frustration get the better of them (or you!) and as hard as it is, try to remain calm and positive. Let them know you understand how they are feeling, remind them how brilliant they are and if needs be, let them take a break.

Tip 7: Brain fuel

Finally and most importantly, make snacks part of the homework routine. Nobody performs well when they are hungry and whilst I wouldn't ordinarily advocate bribing children, it's amazing what a 'carrot' food can be!