How to Motivate Your Child to Do Their Homework

When your child rushes out of school at the end of the day, the last thing on their mind is that homework assignment due for the following day. By the time you get home, there are a million and one other things that they would rather do than schoolwork, and once they’ve had their dinner their academic brain is likely to be well and truly switched off. If you’re familiar with the nightly struggle to get your kids to complete their homework, then these top tips from an independent school in Surrey could really help you out.

Establish a Routine

Creating a designated time slot for studying will help children get into the swing of doing their homework, with minimal fuss. Pick a time that fits into your child’s existing routine and make sure they stick to it, as consistency is key. As soon as they get home from school is likely to be the most effective time as they will still be dressed in their school uniform, meaning they are more likely to still feel in ‘work mode. Perhaps allow time for a quick snack as a bit of brain fuel, but try and keep them away from any electronic devices between getting home and starting homework, as this will only act as a distraction.

Create a Study Space

Establishing a suitable environment for your child to study in can really help to keep them focused. Try and find them a quiet space where they can get stuck into their homework without being disturbed. This could be a desk in their bedroom, or even just the dining room table. This area should be free from tablets, televisions and mobile phones, giving your child the best hope at remaining task-focused. Try to make sure that your child has all the tools they need at hand, so they won’t need to get up to hunt for a ruler or protractor and potentially encounter reasons for procrastination along the way.

Offer Support

At school, if your child gets stuck with something, they can raise their hand and ask for assistance. At home, left to their own devices, your child may feel defeated if they come across something challenging in their homework. If children find something difficult, they are likely to resist doing it altogether. Make sure you are close by to support your child if they need any help or guidance, you don’t need to tell them the answers, just coach them through and work it out together.

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