Much of the typical school day goes against the nature of the average child. Kids are required to sit still and remain attentive for long hours. There is also a lot of new information that they must digest. Most children eagerly await the dismissal bell so they can return home to relax and play.
Making Homework Less of a Chore
For these and other reasons, getting kids excited about learning and school isn’t always easy. When you add homework to the mix, it can become even more difficult to keep your children engaged. Fortunately, the following strategies will help you keep your kids motivated when it is time to complete their homework.
1. Routine
It is first important to establish a routine for your child. The routine that you create should be reflective of your own kid’s needs and abilities. Some kids do best when they tackle their school work shortly after walking in the front door. Others, however, need more time to themselves. Find out what works best for your child and then stick to the routine that you establish.
2. Snack
Most children find it hard to focus when they are hungry. In fact, when they are hungry, being hungry is all they can think about. After a quick and healthy snack, children can then sit down, focus, and get started on their homework.
Healthy snack foods will prevent them from getting the short, jittery burst of energy that refined and simple carbohydrates and sugars provide. Set out fresh fruit, whole grain bread or crackers along with cheese, or think about creating a high-protein snack. It is never too late in the day to give kids a little brain fuel.
3. Eliminate Distractions
Many younger children are having a harder time than ever before when it comes to concentrating on their homework. This is because they have far more distractions than children had in the past. Kids cannot focus on their homework when they have computers, tablets, phones or TV’s readily available.
Putting away electronic devices during study time will give kids more incentive to stay focused and work hard. They know that once they complete the required activities, they can get back to doing what they want to do. This helps to establish an understanding of the importance of prioritizing work.
4. Know Your Child
Identify specific concepts and subjects that your child is struggling with and look online or talk with your child’s teacher for the best educational resources and tools. Supplying your child with the right resources for overcoming these hurdles will elevate their interest in these subjects.
You should also look for ways to bolster your child’s newly developed skills. For instance, you might find a colorful, rap music video that focuses solely on addition tables or letters of the alphabet. Try quizzing your child throughout the evening to reinforce this new knowledge and help further his or her understanding.
Reward your child for studying diligently and remaining focused on his or her work. This does not mean buying a prize from the store for each night of effort. Instead, allow your child to play his or her video game for a half hour longer, watch a little extra television or play outside with friends more. This helps to create a healthy balance between learning and enjoying the carefree existence that all kids deserve.
