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Not many kids enjoy doing homework, favouring leisure activities and socialisation. However, homework is an important way for their teachers to determine their progress and how well they understand the lesson content, so parents should try and find ways to motivate and encourage their children to do a good job. Here are some tips from a prep school in Hampstead.
Encourage a Routine
If your child has a structured routine in place after school, they will know that they need to prioritise their homework. For example, you could establish a rule that homework must be completed between the hours of 5pm and 7pm, and technology is off limits until homework is complete. You could consider incorporating a rewards system when your child follows this routine successfully, to keep them on the right track.
Try not to Nag
Encouraging your child to complete their homework shouldn’t become a battle. With that said, try and avoid nagging them, as this will make them grumpy, and they will feel like they’re losing control. Instead, politely remind them that they will be the ones in trouble with their teachers if they don’t complete it, as this will give them a sense of responsibility.
Provide a Suitable Study Space
Make sure your child has somewhere quiet where they can complete their schoolwork without distractions. This space should be well-lit and filled with the appropriate study supplies. If they don’t have anywhere to go to do their homework, they will end up sitting in front of the TV and won’t be able to fully concentrate on the task at hand.
Don’t Take Over
As mentioned above, homework is a way for teachers to assess how well their students are progressing. If you take over in a bid to help your child when they get stuck, the teachers will think your child understands the subject content and won’t know to provide additional support. Children need to learn from their own mistakes, so try to provide a sense of direction, rather than giving them the answers.
Be a Good Role Model
If you spend every evening in front of the TV or scrolling through your social media accounts, your child will do the same. If they think that the rest of the family are enjoying themselves in another room, they will rush through their work, and it won’t be completed to a high standard. Try and show them how crucial it is to get your important tasks done before you make time for relaxing, because this should help them adopt the same attitude.