5 tips from our tutors for stressfree homework

September 10, 2017

• Advice for Parents
• / Guest Blog Series

Homework. That dreaded word that children tend to hate and parents seem to fear however, it doesn’t have to be a time full of hassle and stress. While it can be the cause of family arguments, temper tantrums and general despair, our tutors have created a list of their top tips for stress-free homework. You’re not alone if you’re struggling to find ways to help your child stay focused but with the following five steps of advice, our tutors have you covered.

1. Have a daily homework routine

Assigning a dedicated time each day for homework assignments is a great way to relieve homework stress. By making homework part of a normal daily routine, homework becomes less of a chore and feels more natural. Find out what time studying works best for your child. Some will prefer to complete the work straight away while others may want a break and save studying for after dinner, particularly if they have an after-school activity or club.

2. Create an appropriate workspace

Make sure your child has a private workstation away from any distractions. A convenient and quiet place free from interruption is key to hassle-free homework, be it in a study, a desk in their bedroom or at the dining table. All electronic devices should be put away and this space should be free from distractions such as the TV, meddling siblings and any other things that may cause temptation. Fill this space with all the materials and equipment needed – calculator, highlighters, ruler etc so they do not have to keep leaving to find the things they need. By having a personal space for them to complete their work will make it that little bit easier.  

3. Allow regular breaks

It is important to give your child a break when needed and they should not be expected to sit for long periods of time without time for a ‘brain rest’. Just like adults, children have a certain concentration span, so a break is vital in order to refresh their mind. A break every 30 minutes is advisory, allowing time for a snack, a quick chat or a walk in the garden. It is also a good idea to break up large tasks into smaller, more manageable sections so they do not feel overwhelmed by the work.

4. Acknowledge their successes

It is essential to be positive when your child is completing their homework. Creating reward charts or offering small incentives if they work hard can be very encouraging as well as reinforcing their successes by telling them how well they are working and that their hard work is not unnoticed. Moreover, celebrating their accomplishments will give them the self-belief, confidence and motivation that they need to inspire them to study. Acknowledgment and support from their parents can be highly reassuring and uplifting.

5. Offer a helping hand

Often a child will need some guidance on how to approach or complete a task. It is important to explain difficult problems and show examples without directly giving them the answer. Make sure to go through any mistakes and ensure that they understand, encouraging them to find and work out answers for themselves. Another useful alternative is to hire a private tutor. This is especially beneficial if you cannot always give your child the time and attention they need for homework help or if you feel a professional would be more valuable and constructive. Our tutors can assist in improving your child’s performance, helping them to excel academically to ensure they are maximising their potential and getting the most out of their schoolwork.

With this advice in mind, our tutors believe you can overcome the homework struggle and turn after-school study into a regular and relaxed part of their day, providing a time for extra learning alongside giving your child a sense of accomplishment.