We’ve all experienced a time as a child, where we’ve been sat comfortably in front of the tv, either avoiding or completely unaware of the stacks of homework waiting to be completed. This was usually because homework was never seen as a priority, or was avoided due to how daunting the thought of completing studies was, without the support of a teacher. However, homework was designed and put into place for quite an important reason. It plays a crucial role in reinforcing classroom learning, and fosters independent study skills. As a parent, you are responsible for supporting and guiding your child through their homework journey, helping them develop essential academic skills, and building a strong foundation for their educational success. Here is some advice from this pre prep school in North London, on top tips for helping your child with their homework.
A productive learning environment
Before you begin lecturing your child or trying to encourage them to complete their homework regularly, you want to make sure that your home space caters to your child’s learning needs. If your child seems to perform perfectly well in class, but shows no interest or motivation when it comes to learning at home, the reason for this is usually because they don’t find the environment to be productive or supportive. Do your best to create a designated homework area that is free from distractions. Provide a comfortable work space with the necessary materials such as pens, paper, and textbooks. Try and reduce noise and interruptions during homework time, as this will help your child focus and concentrate on their tasks.
Independence and guidance
Whilst it is crucial to guide and support your child through their studies, try your best to stand aside and encourage them to take ownership of their homework. Teach them how to break big tasks down into more manageable ones, prioritise assignments, and create a realistic study schedule. Allow your child to explore different approaches Before they come to you for assistance, as this promotes independent thinking and problem-solving skills. Additionally, it is so important to offer guidance to your child, without providing them directly with all the answers. Yes, it will definitely speed up the process and help them get good grades in their homework, but it takes away from the overall aim of homework which is to support and improve a child’s academic learning. Encourage them to think critically and find solutions independently. This approach fosters problem solving skills, resilience and a deeper understanding of the material taught in class by teachers.
Break time and rewards
Parental support and involvement is so important when it comes to a child’s learning, especially when it comes to completing homework. However, this doesn’t mean that your child needs to be completing work in all of their free time. As vital as it is to recognise the importance of completing homework, it is also important to understand that breaks are needed during study sessions. Encourage your child to take short, regular breaks to recharge their focus and prevent themselves from burning out. Additionally, you can offer small rewards for completing tasks, such as the chance to engage in a desired activity or a special treat. This method is great for maintaining motivation and makes homework feel like a positive experience.
Supporting your child with their homework is a great opportunity to foster their academic growth, instil discipline, and lifelong learning skills that can be used in both education and the workforce. By creating a productive learning environment, promoting independence, and providing your child with endless resources, you can help your little one to excel in their academic journey. Remember, the goal at this point is not perfection, but to see continuous progress and the development of essential skills that will help your child far beyond their homework assignments.