Many parents struggle with getting kids motivated to do homework. Let’s face it, what adult would not prefer going for a bike ride instead of folding a load of laundry or cleaning? Homework is not “fun”, however creating a fun homework environment can help. And for those of you thinking, “My child loves doing homework”… Count your blessings! I thought laundry was fun the first time I helped my mother too.
Create a fun designated homework location in the house. Put up a GREAT ACHEIVEMENT board to display “A” work, artwork, etc. Choose soothing calming colors to decorate (i.e. yellow, light blue). Also, make sure the location is comfortable with plenty of light. Something that I have noticed helps my children focus is playing soft music in the background. Obviously, choose calming music- no rap or hard rock.
A great motivator is to reward children for completing homework in a timely manner and doing extra work that you provide. I used the Star Stash Reward System when my boys were younger and now use the Star Stash on the Portable Parenting App. It works wonders! If my boys correctly complete their homework within 30 minutes (estimated time by teacher), they receive 2 stars and receive 1 star for completing in 45 minutes.
If you have two or more school age children, you can have weekly homework contests. Make the winning prizes fun for the whole family. For example, whoever receives the most stars that week gets to choose restaurant for the weekly dinner out or the movie for family movie night.
Taking the time to be available to help and answer questions is important. If your child asks for help, never show signs of inconvenience. Jump for joy when you hear them calling, “Mom!” Put that positive parenting hat on and remember that all questions are good questions. Try to guide child how to find the answer instead of just providing it. Thank goodness for GOOGLE!
Always set homework time after snack time and before playtime. Make sure the snack is low in sugar. We all know what sugar is no good for a child’s attention span. Try making a healthy snack such as fruit and nuts instead of cookies. During snack time, ask child what they learned in school that day and get those pom pom’s out. Review and discuss homework to be done with enthusiasm. Try to explain how that specific knowledge will be helpful and useful in life.
Remember… enjoy every moment with your kiddos weather it is homework or a bike ride. Time flies and before you know it, they are off into the real world. Keep it in perspective and have fun fun fun!
