help your kid with homework

How to help your kids with homework (without doing it for them)

Lecturer in the Faculty of Education, Monash University

Lecturer, Monash University

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Parents are a child’s first and most important teachers . Parent involvement in their child’s learning can help improve how well they do in school. However, when it comes to helping kids with homework, it’s not so simple.

While it’s important to show support and model learning behaviour, there is a limit to how much help you can give without robbing your child of the opportunity to learn for themselves.

Be involved and interested

An analysis of more than 400 research studies found parent involvement, both at school and at home, could improve students’ academic achievement, engagement and motivation.

School involvement includes parents participating in events such as parent-teacher conferences and volunteering in the classroom. Home involvement includes parents talking with children about school, providing encouragement, creating stimulating environments for learning and finally – helping them with homework.

Read more: What to do at home so your kids do well at school

The paper found overall, it was consistently beneficial for parents to be involved in their child’s education, regardless of the child’s age or socioeconomic status. However, this same analysis also suggested parents should be cautious with how they approach helping with homework.

Parents helping kids with homework was linked to higher levels of motivation and engagement, but lower levels of academic achievement. This suggests too much help may take away from the child’s responsibility for their own learning.

Help them take responsibility

Most children don’t like homework. Many parents agonise over helping their children with homework. Not surprisingly, this creates a negative emotional atmosphere that often results in questioning the value of homework.

Homework has often been linked to student achievement, promoting the idea children who complete it will do better in school. The most comprehensive analysis on homework and achievement to date suggests it can influence academic achievement (like test scores), particularly for children in years seven to 12.

But more research is needed to find out about how much homework is appropriate for particular ages and what types are best to maximise home learning.

Read more: Too much help with homework can hinder your child's learning progress

When it comes to parent involvement, research suggests parents should help their child see their homework as an opportunity to learn rather than perform. For example, if a child needs to create a poster, it is more valuable the child notes the skills they develop while creating the poster rather than making the best looking poster in the class.

Instead of ensuring their child completes their homework, it’s more effective for parents to support their child to increase confidence in completing homework tasks on their own.

Here are four ways they can do this.

1. Praise and encourage your child

Your positivity will make a difference to your child’s approach to homework and learning in general. Simply, your presence and support creates a positive learning environment.

Our study involved working with recently arrived Afghani mothers who were uncertain how to help their children with school. This was because they said they could not understand the Australian education system or speak or write in English.

However, they committed to sit next to their children as they completed their homework tasks in English, asking them questions and encouraging them to discuss what they were learning in their first language.

In this way, the parents still played a role in supporting their child even without understanding the content and the children were actively engaged in their learning.

2. Model learning behaviour

Many teachers model what they would like their students to do. So, if a child has a problem they can’t work out, you can sit down and model how you would do it, then complete the next one together and then have the child do it on their own.

3. Create a homework plan

When your child becomes overly frustrated with their homework, do not force them. Instead, together create a plan to best tackle it:

read and understand the homework task

break the homework task into smaller logical chunks

discuss how much time is required to complete each chunk

work backwards from the deadline and create a timeline

put the timeline where the child can see it

encourage your child to mark completed chunks to see the progress made on the task

4. Make space for homework

Life is busy. Parents can create positive study habits by allocating family time for this. This could mean carving out one hour after dinner for your child to do homework while you engage in a study activity such as reading, rather than watching television and relaxing. You can also create a comfortable and inviting reading space for the child to learn in.

Parents’ ability to support their child’s learning goes beyond homework. Parents can engage their child in discussions, read with them, and provide them with other ongoing learning opportunities (such as going to a museum, watching a documentary or spending time online together).

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Help your child with homework (without doing it yourself)

Sometimes you run out of patience, sometimes you run out of time, and sometimes you just want to make sure your child is successful. Whatever the reason, it’s easy for parents to overstep when it comes to homework.

But completing your child’s homework ultimately doesn’t do them any favors — in fact, there’s evidence that lots of parental involvement with homework can actually backfire. Instead, parents should recognize that homework exists to help children better understand the topics they’re learning in class. Letting kids figure it out for themselves, including making mistakes along the way, is an important part of the process. Beyond the academic benefits, allowing a child to complete homework alone helps him gain important life skills like self-sufficiency, problem-solving and time management.

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That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be involved at all. The key is to provide support and guidance while setting boundaries and reinforcing that homework is your child’s responsibility, not yours. Try these strategies to help your child do their homework without doing it for them.

Set up a homework routine.

Help your child get assignments done with less angst (or tears) by setting up and maintaining a homework routine. Figure out when your child is best able to concentrate — that may be right after school or scheduled activities, or he may need an hour of downtime at home before returning to school work. If your child spends time with an after-school sitter or in an after-care program, decide how much homework should be completed during that time.

You’ll also need to choose a location in your home where your child can work with minimal distraction. Some children thrive at a desk in their bedroom, away from siblings and other family members; others happily and productively work at the dining room table or kitchen island while mom or dad makes dinner. Whatever spot works for your child, make sure school supplies are within reach.

Most importantly, homework time needs to be free of television, video games, cell phones, and other media. If your child needs to access to the Internet for certain assignments, make sure the computer is in a communal area. Set boundaries around which sites your child can visit, and determine together how much time actually needs to be spent surfing the web.

Let your child’s age determine how involved you are.

It’s natural for parents to be a bit more involved when young elementary school students are still new to the concept of homework. At this age, parents or a sitter should sit down with the child to review homework and make a plan about how to tackle it. Your child needs to be an active participant in this conversation, which will help them learn how to prioritize without you.

By the time children are in junior high and high school, parents should be largely removed from the nightly homework process. Instead, be available as needed to discuss ‘big picture’ details on assignments and projects.

Don’t hover during homework time.

Be a resource when it comes to homework, not a crutch. Give your child space while she completes her homework. Do your own thing — make dinner or send work emails — but be accessible. This will encourage her to try to solve more difficult problems on her own before seeking your help.

Review good study habits.

Completing homework assignments and having good study habits aren’t necessarily the same thing, especially as children get older. Study habits include understanding how to review classroom material, take notes, stay organized and prepare for long-term projects and exams.

Parents can help teach and reinforce good study habits. Try these suggestions:

1. Talk to your kids about how these skills relate to the real world. Good study habits early on can set a student up for academic and professional success.

2. Model the behaviors you want to see in your child. While you don’t need to start pouring over a physics textbook, let your child see you balance the monthly budget, read books for pleasure, work on a big professional project or even manage the family calendar.

3. Support study habits by being present and available. Run through flashcards, administer practice questions and actively listen when your child wants to talk about the material he is learning.

Focus on healthy habits. For children in the United States, it’s not uncommon to have several hours of homework each night as they advance in school, in addition to after-school activities, sports and other commitments. While making time and space for homework to happen is important, other habits, like sleep as well as a healthy diet, can contribute to a child’s academic success.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, first graders need up to 11 hours of sleep a night, while junior high and high school students need at least 8 hours. Over time, without sufficient sleep, kids’ attention spans and abilities to concentrate are likely to decrease. Set a bedtime for your child and stick to it. If homework is interfering with your child’s ability to get enough sleep, it may be time to talk to the teacher about whether or not the volume of homework is reasonable.

Figure out what the sticking point is. 

Kids learn in different ways and at different paces. Suggest and try different methods to figure out what type of learning works best for your child. For example, if your child is struggling with algebra, try drawing a diagram or a picture to see if a visual representation will clear things up.

If a child continues to have trouble with certain subjects, he may have missed a key foundational concept from earlier lessons. No amount of “toughing it out” will work in these situations, so you may need to review materials to determine what information needs to be reviewed. Enlist help, either from a teacher or a tutor, if your child needs additional support and one-on-one attention.

Communicate with the teacher.

You and your child’s teacher are a team dedicated to your child’s academic success — and like all relationships, communication is key.

When your child has an issue with homework, resist the urge to take over and talk to the teacher instead. Teachers don’t want parents completing their students’ homework, and they typically know when a parent has intervened on an assignment. If your child is consistently struggling with her work, she may need extra help. The teacher can provide this help or assist you in identifying the right resources.

In addition, if you’re concerned about too much homework (or even too little homework), reach out to the teacher. Whatever the problem, be diplomatic — your child will be with this teacher for an entire year, so it’s important to keep the lines of communication open and productive. Together, you’ll likely be able to solve whatever homework issues arise.

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10 Easy Ways to Help Your Kids with Homework

Published April 2, 2024 Education , Parenting

It’s probably safe to say homework was not your favorite thing growing up. So, it’s probably not your favorite thing right now. But helping your kids with homework can end up having a huge and positive impact on them. Students with involved parents tend to have better attendance, better performance, and better behavior—all of which set them up for a better future. So, here’s how to help your kids absolutely nail their homework. 

1. Understand the Expectation

You’ll want to gain an understanding of their assignments, so you can start to hold them accountable. Are your child’s assignments posted online? Do they get sent home with paperwork? Is there a different way you can stay in the loop? Try to get a sense for what’s due, when it’s due, and what the final product should look like. That way, you can make sure that you’re coaching them in the right direction. 

2. Teach Them Project Management Skills

Get your kids a fun calendar ( or have them make one ) to keep track of deadlines. Do they have a large assignment? Help them break it into smaller chunks. Do they review their own work? Teach them how to double-check their homework, do a little quality control, and catch mistakes before their teacher does. These are project management skills that your kids can use for life.

3. Help Them Find Their “Why”

Do your kids have a dream? Do they have a passion? Do they have a role model? A good education can get your kids one step closer to their dreams. Try to connect the dots between homework, school, and wherever they want to be in the future.  

4. Encourage Them to Exercise Beforehand

Your kids might find it hard to start homework right after school. So, invite them to take a break and get some exercise. Twenty minutes of exercise can improve your child’s memory, mood, and concentration. Encourage your kids to get their heart rate up before they buckle down.

5. Encourage Them to Meditate Beforehand

Just like exercise prepares your kids physically, meditation prepares them mentally. According to Healthy Children.org , meditation “calms the nervous system and decreases stress hormones.” It also helps them relax and focus. So, help your kids get the most out of their homework session by getting them into the right mindset. 

6. Get on a Schedule

We all have things we plan to do whenever we have time. But that time never seems to roll around. That’s why it’s so important to get on a homework schedule. You don’t want to wait until late at night. But you also don’t want to schedule it right after school. Find a time that works for you and make sure you stick with it every day.

7. Create A Dedicated Homework Space

One of the biggest ways you can help your kids is by eliminating distractions. So, give them a quiet, dedicated space to do their homework. And if it’s hard to create a quiet space, that’s okay. Try to drown out the background noise with headphones or white noise.

8. Teach Them How to Be Resourceful

You want to help your kids with their homework, but you don’t want to do it for them. Spoon-feeding them the answers is just another way of holding them back—they’ll never learn the lessons they’re supposed to be learning. So, when they get stuck on something, teach them how to be resourceful. Can they review their notes from class or the teacher’s handouts? Does their textbook explain more? Is there a tutorial they can watch online? You won’t always be there to help your kids, but you can teach them how to help themselves.  

9. Work Alongside Them

If you want your kids to do their homework, try to lead by example and do something equally productive while they’re working. Maybe you can sit next to them and pay bills or read a book. If everyone else is getting down to business, then they’re more likely to do the same. But if the people around them are watching TV or doing something else fun, they might feel like they’re missing out.    

10. Schedule a Few Breaks

When your kids are glued to the kitchen table, it might feel like they’re getting more done. But are they? Cornell University explains that a short break can actually make your kids more productive. So, if they have a lot of homework, schedule a few short breaks to help them refocus and increase their productivity. 

As educators, one of the most common questions we get from parents is “how can we help from home?” You can start by helping out with homework. Make sure you understand your kids’ assignments, schedule a dedicated homework time, and teach your kids how to be resourceful. Because you can’t do their homework for them, but you can definitely set them up for success.

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Home » Articles » Parenting » Kids » 10 Ways to Help Your Kids With Their Homework

10 Ways to Help Your Kids With Their Homework

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All parents homeschool. And, in fact, even if parents send their children off to school to learn, they are almost singlehandedly the only factor that matters in their kids’ educational success. Paul E. Barton of the Educational Testing Service (which administers the GRE among other standardized tests) wrote a study called “America’s Smallest School: The Family.”

He has estimated that about 90% of the difference in schools’ proficiencies can be explained by a handful of factors including the number of days students are absent from school, the number of hours students spend watching television, the number of pages read for homework, and the quantity and quality of reading material in the students’ homes. So the best schools are really those where there are parents helping with homework. Here are 10 ways to help your kids with their homework.

1. Set the time.

Structure is always important. Designate a specific time frame for homework to be completed. Creating a regular routine will increase productivity.

2. Get involved.

It is important to be active in your kid’s education. Most schools offer online services to check on grades, homework assignments, and overall progress. Keep yourself up to date on all of these things.

3. Help create a homework space.

Provide a quiet and well-lit location. Make sure there is a spacious work area and all necessary items to complete the assignments. Preparation is half the battle.

4. Limit distractions.

Our homes are filled with distractions—televisions, cell phones, and video games, just to name a few. The use of these items should not be allowed during homework time. The mind should be focused on the task at hand.

5. Organize.

Multiple subjects and classes can create confusion. Provide a planner and instruct your child how to organize and prioritize assignments. Create a solid game plan.

6. Be a cheerleader.

Always show support and give encouragement. Reward strong effort as well as results. We want our children to always give their best.

7. Provide guidance.

We all get stumped sometimes. Make sure helpful resources are available when needed. These might include yourself, school-provided telephone services, or school-approved online assistance. A child should always be able to ask a question and get an answer.

8. Work first.

Just like their parents, children have busy lives these days. Homework should always come before sports and social activities. Make sure education is a number one priority.

9. Teach note-taking.

Make sure your child develops an excellent note-taking system. Experts believe an outline form of note-taking is the most efficient method. However, all children are different, so just make sure they have a system that works for them. Handwritten notes, as opposed to typing, tend to lead to better memory of the information.

10. Develop study habits.

Help instill strong study habits and work ethic in your children. Tests and projects require plenty of planning. Provide tips and techniques that will bring the top-notch results that are desired.

Sound off: How much do you think parents helping with homework effects whether students are successful?

Huddle Up Question

Huddle up with your kids and ask, “How can I help you with your schoolwork?”

More Resources

10 Things Your Kids Need to Get Right in High School

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Helping Kids with Homework: 11 Easy & Do-Able Tips for Parents

Tips for Smart Parenting 09/21/2021 11 minute read

Homework is the bane of every student, as it is for the parents.

As a matter of fact, homework is not even necessary in the first place.

Before you react, there are countless studies to validate this claim. But even if we go on a hard-fought, well-thought, debate on whether homework is important or not, homework is here to stay. 

That said, helping kids with their take-home assignments is a duty we have to fulfill. But how exactly do we do it?

Below are actionable parenting tips to help your kids with their homework without doing it for them!

You might be interested:  How to Support Kids Learning Science and Why it Matters?

Parenting Tips on How to Do Homework with Kids

We used to believe that parental availability and support while kids do their assignments is key for their class success. "The more involved parents are, the better off they would be," so to speak. 

But that is a misconception and sometimes may even be counterproductive. As Kathleen Reilly said:

“When parents are overly immersed in homework, they deny kids the chance to become more independent and confident. Worse, it can breed anxiety along the way.” 

Helping kids with homework means that you offer your support but never treat the assignment like it's your responsibility. It's challenging, but kids need to do homework on their own because the assignments deal with lessons already discussed in class. Plus, answering homework by themselves is a good way to teach independent learning .

With that in mind, here are the homework tips for parents:

1. Work Out a Working Routine

Believe it or not, children love routines because they create structure .

This helps children feel more secure because they know what to do and what's expected of them.

Face it, nobody likes homeworks. But make it easier for your kids to do their's by doing routines such as below:

What time should they start? Set a definite time when they should do their homeworks. Will it be right after they arrive from school? Should they play for an hour first? Would they do it after shower time or after dinner?

Where is their homework place? The place they choose is likely the area they feel most comfy working in. That element adds extra help when doing homework. Find a place and stick with it.

If you have multiple kids, distinct routines for each are fine. What matters is that you enforce discipline and commitment to the schedule. Write the details on a sheet of paper and post their routines on the wall!

2. Make a Homework Plan

The routine simply tackles the when and where kids do their assignments. A homework plan focuses on how they do it. 

Doing homework needs to be systematic , both for you and the child. Approach homework from a systematic point of view and you save yourselves time and whine.

The example below is the system I found most suited for my children. You can follow it or fashion your own process, whichever works best. Here's what my kids do:

Read  the directions of the homework, twice.

Determine the goal and the steps needed to achieve it.

Divide the assignment into several chunks (if logically possible).

Set time limits for each portion and mark each as complete when finished.

Helping kids with homework is not about giving them all the answers. It's about  strategizing on how to finish the homework effectively and efficiently.

3. Monitor, Don't Correct

Let's get back to basics .

What is the purpose of homework?

Homework allows teachers to gauge what the students understood in class. That said, mistakes are welcomed.

But since most parents dread the idea of making mistakes, they try to  correct each flaw too often all for a perfect remark.

Word of advice: Teachers are well-aware of how your kids perform in class, so they know the truth.

My point is, remove the notion of absolute perfection from your kids.

It's okay to make mistakes, as long as they learn how to correct them on their own ! There should be no pressure on them to avoid mistakes at all costs. Encourage an atmosphere of growth. But, make it clear to your kids they should resolve their mistakes the next time around, once they understand the correct answer.

Do this instead:

Allow your kids to ask you up to 3 questions on their homework. But, be stingy on answering their questions right away.

When they ask, reply to them something like "I can help you once I finish my chores" or "Read it again, I'll be back in a sec."

You might not realize it, but this is one subtle way to help kids with homework. When you delay your aid, you gently force them to reread the directions and rework the problem on their own.

Monitor and ask them probing questions on the reason behind their homework answers.

4. Set an Example to Imitate

Helping kids how to do homework can also mean modeling the behavior to them. This is a parenting hack that most parents fail to practice.

It can be a good motivating factor for the kids if you do chores like budgeting or computing household expenses at the same time they do their assignments.

This is one indirect way to teach kids how to do homework. Set a good example and you'll find them following your footsteps.

5. Don't Sit Beside Them

Sitting and closely monitoring your kids as they answer homework is not at all helpful.

Behind the scenes, it sends a message to their brains that you might think they can't do the work without direct supervision.

Would you like that? Of course not!

Helping kids with their homework should also tap into the emotional aspect of learning. Show them that you trust their brains by letting them do their assignment on their own. Otherwise, you shatter their self-confidence leading to feelings of inferiority.

Here are my suggestions:

Stay nearby, do chores, balance your checks, wash dishes. Basically, just be there for them, without literally sitting beside them.

6. Establish the No-Nonsense Responsibility

Make the duties of each member in the family clear.

Of course, both you and your partner have work responsibilities, and so do the kids! They're expected to be diligent with their responsibilities:

Attend classes

Work with their teachers

And of course... do their homeworks

Once they agreed to a working routine and a homework plan , then there is no turning back. Tell them to buckle their seats until they finish their tasks. Discipline matters just as much as intellect and system when dealing with homework.

7. Teach Them Time Management 

Time management is the one of the most important tools for productivity.

Once your kids learn the benefits of being in control of their time, they position themselves to a life of success. Time management is not only relevant for homework. Instilling this behavior is a must from the get-go.

One tip is using an old analog wall clock and coloring in the hour when they should do answer their homework. Once the short arm reaches it, teach them to take initiative to do their tasks.

Help them in sorting the time out too, especially, if there are multiple homework in one seating.

8. Positive Reinforcement is a Great Hack

They say the best way to man's heart is through their stomach. Well, the best way to a child's heart is through snacks and treats . (I made that up)

Instead of threatening them to limit their TV watching time or call their teachers, why not compensate their efforts with some good ol' sweets? 

Reinforcing their diligence pushes them more to do it. Scare tactics are not as good as rewards to encourage a behavior. Although, do the positive reinforcement practice sparingly.  

Appreciating their efforts is another way to help kids with homework as this motivates them. You can do this by:

Posting their aced assignments or exams

Displaying their art projects on the fridge

It showcases how much you value their efforts and how proud you are of them.

9. Walk Away Once the Whine Fest Starts

How does walking away help kids on how to do homework? Well, it doesn't. It's more for your benefit than them.

Having a rough day at work is physically and mentally exhausting . Add another layer of whining because kids don't want to do their assignments, and you enter a whole new level of stress .

If they keep on complaining, check their homework progress.

If they are only being grumpy even when they can do it, then try to motivate them. Tell them that the sooner they finish, the more time they'd have to watch their favorite TV shows .

If the homework is indeed truly difficult, then lend them a hand.

Ask their teacher about it, especially if the homework is beyond the kid's level of understanding. Inquire if it's appropriate to give kids complex problems. Their teachers would love to hear feedback from parents, on top of that, to aid the pupils with their homework!

10. Let Them Take the Lead

Their Homework is not only a test of one's learning but also of a kid's sense of responsibility .

Their answers should be theirs and they must own up if they fail to do it. If they left their homework at home, then parents shouldn't bail their kids out by bringing their assignments to class.

Matt Vaccaro, a first-grade teacher, says that he makes students do their assignment during recess if they forget to do it at home.

According to him "Once she starts missing playtime, she gets the message."

This seemingly harsh yet rightful way to deal with their negligence actually motivates the kids to be responsible in the succeeding homework. 

Helping them how to do homework is as necessary as teaching them to be responsible for it.

11. Keep Your Composure and Carry On

Homework meltdowns do occur, so be ready!

These are children's ways of saying they're overwhelmed . And sometimes these kids are indeed struggling so bad. 

Parents, please keep your composure. Breathe and stay calm . You risk compromising their progress if you too burst out in frustration. Remember that homework is an opportunity to cultivate better parent-child relationships .

Here are ways to address homework meltdowns:

A simple hug might do

Speak words of affirmation like "we'll figure it out"

Let them vent out to you while you listen calmly

Sometimes, kids just need to blow off some steam. Catering to these needs are subtle ways of helping kids with homework. See the mood change after they've burst the bubble.

If ever you did lash out (although we hope not). Apologize immediately and tell your child that you both need a timeout for 10 minutes. They can play for within that period and resume working on the homework once the time is up.

Helping kids with homework is a dual purpose. You make homework accomplishment more manageable for them and you make life easier for you. Consider the above homework tips next time your kids have assignments.

The How-to-do-Homework Hack!

Some kids might still see learning as a chore, and that's okay. I mean, who likes to wake up early and be in class when they can play at home all day?

Making the most out of their curiosity helps transform their perception of learning — from a tedious and boring chore to a fun and interactive learning experience. We believe that the way to encourage kids to do their homework is by making them see the fun in learning.

The best way to do this is using educational toys! 

The STEMscope portable microscope is a good tool to cultivate your child's curiosity. This handheld science gadget is an all-around partner for your kid's best learning! 

Once they activate their curiosity, they develop the insatiable desire to learn, after that, they will see homework as fun learning opportunity!

Check out our complete catalog of science toys to find the best toy for your kid!

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Khan Academy Blog

Making Homework Easier: Tips and Tools for Parents 

posted on September 20, 2023

By Stephanie Yamkovenko , group manager of Khan Academy’s Digital Marketing Team.

Homework can present challenges for parents and children alike. You naturally want to provide support for your child’s learning journey and ensure they are reaching their full potential. In this blog post, we will delve into practical strategies to assist your child with their homework. From fostering understanding and offering encouragement to breaking down tasks and implementing rewards, we will explore a variety of effective approaches to help your child achieve academic success.

Step 1: Set Up Your Child for Success

Your child’s study environment can have a significant impact on their homework performance. Create a space that is free from distractions like the television, smartphones, or noisy siblings. The study space should be comfortable, well lit, and have all the necessary materials your child might need, such as pens, papers, and textbooks. If your child’s workspace is noisy or uncomfortable, they may have difficulty focusing on their homework, resulting in lower productivity. 

For example, if you live in a small apartment, consider setting up a designated corner with a small desk or table where your child can focus on their work. You can use dividers or screens to create a sense of privacy and minimize distractions.

If the only place to do homework is in the dining room or kitchen, try to establish a routine where the area is cleared and organized before study time. This can help signal to your child that it’s time to concentrate and be productive.

Remember, it’s important to adapt to your specific circumstances and make the best of the available space. The key is to create a dedicated study area that promotes focus and minimizes interruptions regardless of the size or location of your home.

Try Confidence Boosters for Your Child Here!

Step 2: make it fun.

It’s important to make homework fun and engaging for your child. Here are some examples of how you can do it:

• Use games : Incorporate educational games like card games, board games, or puzzles that align with the subject your child is learning. For instance, use Scrabble to practice spelling or Sudoku to enhance problem-solving skills.
• Turn it into a challenge : Create a friendly competition between siblings or friends by setting goals or time limits for completing assignments. Offer small rewards or incentives for accomplishing tasks.
• Make it interactive : Use hands-on activities or experiments to reinforce concepts learned in class. For science or math, conduct simple experiments at home or use manipulatives like blocks or counters to visualize abstract concepts.
• Use technology : Explore online educational platforms or apps that offer interactive learning experiences. There are various educational games, virtual simulations, and videos available that can make homework more enjoyable.
• Incorporate creativity : Encourage your child to express their understanding through art, storytelling, or multimedia presentations. For example, they can create a comic strip to summarize a story or make a short video to explain a concept.

Remember, by making homework enjoyable, you can help your child develop a positive attitude towards learning.

Step 3: Use Rewards

Rewards can be a powerful motivational tool for children. Offering positive reinforcement can encourage them to complete their homework on time and to the best of their ability. 

Here are some examples of rewards our team has used with their children:

• Extra screen time: “I use Apple parental controls to add screen time on their iPad.”
• Access to a favorite toy: “My eight year old has a drum kit, which drives us all up the wall. (Thanks, Grandma!) But when they’ve been doing a lot of school work, we put on headphones and let him go nuts.”
• Praise for a job well done: “Specific, measurable praise is what works best.” 
• Trip to the park: “A trip to the park is good for everyone, especially for the kids to run around with the doggos.”
• Movie night: “I know every word and song lyric in Moana ; we now reserve showings for good behavior.” 
• Stickers or stamps: “Gold stars were such a thing growing up in the 80s; turns out they still work.”
• Stay up a little later: “An extra 30 minutes feels like a whole day for my young ones; use this reward with caution as it can become the expectation!”

So, celebrate your child’s efforts and encourage them to continue doing their best.

Step 4: Break Down Difficult Tasks

When facing daunting homework assignments, follow these step-by-step instructions to break down the tasks into smaller, manageable chunks:

• Understand the requirements and scope of the task.
• Break down the assignment into individual tasks or sub-tasks.  
• Splitting the middle term
• Using formula
• Using Quadratic formula
• Using algebraic identities
• Determine the order in which tasks should be completed based on importance or difficulty. 
• Start with the easiest task. Begin with the task that seems the least challenging or time-consuming.
• Progress to more challenging tasks: Once the easier tasks are completed, move on to more difficult ones.
• Take breaks: Schedule short breaks between tasks to avoid burnout and maintain focus.
• Check completed tasks for accuracy and make any necessary revisions.
• Finish the remaining task(s) with the same approach.
• Celebrate small achievements to boost confidence and keep motivation high.

By following these steps, you can make daunting homework assignments more manageable and less overwhelming for your child.

Step 5: Get Targeted Help

If your child is struggling with homework, it might be worth considering seeking personalized assistance. You have the option to search for professional tutors or explore online tutoring platforms, such as Khan Academy’s AI tutor, Khanmigo .

This AI tutor can offer personalized guidance and support tailored to your child’s specific needs, helping them grasp complex concepts and practice essential skills. Incorporating this approach can effectively complement your child’s learning and enhance their homework performance.

Enhance your child’s learning and boost homework performance!

Homework can be a challenge for both parents and children. But with the right approach, you can help your child overcome difficulties and support their learning. Encourage and understand your child, create a comfortable environment, break down difficult tasks, use rewards, get professional help when needed, and make it fun. With these tips and techniques, you can help your child achieve success, develop a love for learning, and achieve academic excellence. Remember that each child learns differently, so it’s essential to adjust your approach to meet their unique needs.

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8 Tips to Help Your Child With Homework

We get it—no matter your child’s age, getting homework done can be a challenge. Even for children in elementary school, their homework takes time, focus, and energy to complete. So here are 8 essential tips to help a child with their homework:

Minimize Distractions

Make it as easy as possible for your child to focus during homework time. Don’t have the television on in the background and make sure phones, tablets, and games are put away. This will also help signal to them that homework is a priority!

Create a Homework Space

Designating one place for homework helps establish a routine for your child. They will know to take their assignment from their backpack, bring it to the homework space, and return it to their backpack when they’re finished.

Recognize Your Child’s Abilities

Some children need to come home and work on their homework right away before they start playing and lose track of time. Others need a break after a long day at school and benefit from a little down time at home before starting their assignments.

Connect It To the Real World

If your child complains of homework being boring, try to emphasize how they will use what they’re learning outside of school. Not only can this help increase motivation, but it also shows how what they are learning this year builds on what they learned last year and already know.

Review, Review, Review

Remind your child that checking their work is part of doing homework. Reviewing after completing problems is not optional, and is actually part of every assignment.

Don’t Get Frustrated

You may need to give your child multiple reminders about the steps involved in doing homework. Especially when starting a new school year or coming back from long breaks, it can take a little time to get back into an after-school routine.

Remember Who the Student Is

Find the line between helping your child with their homework and completing it for them. Remember that sometimes the takeaway from the lesson isn’t the answer to the problem, but your child learning how to problem solve and find the answer.

Talk With the Teacher

If your child is working on their homework all night and can’t get it done before bedtime, set up a meeting to talk with their teacher. Many teachers are able to alter assignments to make the amount of homework each night more manageable for your child. It’s better to talk sooner to ensure your child gets the help they need before falling too far behind.

Try these ways to help support your child as they do their homework. Use these ideas to help make homework time easier!

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How to Help Your Child With Homework

Put an end to homework tug-of-wars with your child, whether they’re a perfectionist or procrastinator..

Sometimes homework can feel like you’re pulling teeth, especially if your child is resisting. But the truth is, homework hassles are often self-discipline problems in disguise. Setting reasonable limits can help your child get back on track.

Whether your child is a perfectionist or a procrastinator, every student is bound to experience some frustration completing their assignments. 

Here’s how to help your child finish their work successfully, whether they’re a perfectionist, procrastinator, disorganized, or striving student.

The Perfectionist

To a certain extent, perfectionists just can't help it.

"Perfectionism can be a wonderful thing to pass on to your child, so parents shouldn't feel badly about it,” says Melanie J. Katzman, associate clinical professor of psychology at Weill Cornell Medical School in New York City. “But carried to an extreme, it can become debilitating.”

For example, perfectionist kids may anticipate that they’ll never be able to meet their own high standards and ask themselves, “Why bother?”

To keep your child from getting gridlocked while doing homework, help them set realistic achievement goals and praise effort, not grades.

The Procrastinator

Procrastinators find 101 things to do before they actually sit down and start their homework. Often, this means waiting until the last minute then rushing through it.

A child who procrastinates may do so for various reasons: They may be disorganized or have poor study or planning skills, or they may be anxious or angry about something at home or at school, in which case you’ll want to talk to them, their teachers, or a school psychologist to determine why.

To help, work with your child to set goals they can meet and come up with a schedule together (these tips for establishing homework habits can help). You can get ahead of homework or school-related anxieties with these soothing books for coping with worry to share during your nightly read-aloud.

The Disorganized Child

The disorganized child is always "just about" to sit down and start their homework, but then... well, something comes up. 

You could tear your hair out over the antics of a child who's disorganized — and they still won't have finished what they need to do. Sometimes the problem may be a learning challenge. Sometimes it's as simple as providing a reasonably quiet, efficient workspace or teaching your child to organize homework materials and allocate time appropriately.

Be careful not to get in your child’s way. If you're always supplying suggestions and reminders, you undermine the whole purpose of homework. The disorganized child will never gain the confidence they need to be self-sufficient.

The Striving Student

Parents of striving students may hear the lament "I'm not smart enough" or "It's just too hard” — especially around 4th or 5th grade, when the amount of homework intensifies and variance between teachers’ instruction styles grows. To keep your child engaged, you need to be a cheerleader. (Here’s how to talk to your child about confidence .)

If your child is genuinely unable to do their homework, you, in tandem with a teacher or school psychologist, must figure out why and enlist the necessary help. A learning difficulty or anxiety over problems at home may be affecting schoolwork, or your child may need more challenging assignments. 

Get ready for your child to go back to school with our guide — it's full of recommended books, teacher tips, homework help, and more resources for a successful school year.

Shop inspiring books for motivating your young learner below! You can shop all books and activities at The Scholastic Store .

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Top Tips to Motivate and Support Kids with Homework

Homework can be a powerful tool in a child’s educational journey, offering an opportunity to reinforce skills learned in the classroom and develop independent study habits. However, homework often brings its challenges, both for kids and parents. It’s not uncommon for children to feel overwhelmed or uncertain about tackling assignments at home, especially if they’re struggling with specific subjects.

As a parent, it’s essential to understand why homework is beneficial. Homework helps children review and retain what they’ve learned and fosters skills like time management, organization, and problem-solving. When parents actively guide their children with homework, it can make a significant difference in their academic progress and confidence.

However, striking a balance between providing help and encouraging independence is key. By offering support without taking over, parents can help children build the resilience and responsibility they need to succeed on their own. In the following sections, we’ll explore various strategies parents can use to create a supportive homework environment and build their child’s confidence with assignments.

Understanding the Role of Homework

Homework is often seen as an extension of classroom learning. Its primary purpose is to reinforce concepts learned during the day, helping children to consolidate knowledge, practice new skills, and develop a stronger understanding of various subjects. However, homework also serves broader educational purposes. It encourages children to take responsibility for their work, manage time, and cultivate discipline, all essential life skills.

When approached positively, homework can allow children to gain independence and a sense of accomplishment. Rather than viewing it as a task to get through, understanding its benefits can help parents and children see value in the effort. It’s important to communicate this perspective to your child, emphasizing that homework is about completing assignments and becoming a more capable, curious, and self-directed learner. By fostering this mindset, you can transform homework time into a meaningful and constructive part of their education.

Creating a Homework-Friendly Environment

Setting up a designated homework space at home is a simple yet effective step toward supporting your child’s learning process. A consistent, quiet, and organized workspace can help children focus, reduce distractions, and establish a routine that mentally prepares them for study time.

Choose a spot free from the hustle and bustle of everyday home activities—a quiet corner in the living room, a desk in their bedroom, or even a small area in the kitchen. Make sure this space is well-lit, comfortable, and stocked with all the necessary supplies, such as pencils, notebooks, calculators, and any subject-specific resources they might need. Having everything in one place means they can start their homework promptly without searching for materials, which saves time and helps them stay focused.

Setting some guidelines for this area to minimize distractions is also beneficial. For instance, keep electronic devices, such as phones or tablets, away from the workspace unless required for a specific assignment. Similarly, establish a set homework time each day to build a routine that reinforces studying and learning habits. With a calm and well-prepared environment, your child is likelier to develop a positive approach to homework and feel encouraged to tackle their assignments independently.

Creating a Consistent Homework Routine

Establishing a predictable and supportive homework routine can reduce stress for you and your child. Here are key elements to consider in building an effective routine:

Choose a Designated Homework Spot

• Set up a quiet, comfortable space where your child can focus. This doesn’t have to be a full desk but should be free from distractions like television or high-traffic areas. Keep essential supplies like pencils, paper, and other tools within reach to avoid interruptions.

Set a Regular Time

• Pick a consistent time for homework each day. This could be after a snack break post-school or later in the evening after dinner, depending on what suits your family’s schedule. Consistency helps children mentally prepare for homework and understand that it’s a routine.

Break Down Tasks

• For younger children or kids with multiple assignments, breaking tasks into smaller chunks can be helpful. Use a simple checklist or timer to separate subjects or specific tasks, making the workload more manageable and less overwhelming.

Incorporate Short Breaks

• Long work stretches can lead to fatigue, so encourage short breaks between tasks. A five-minute stretch or quick walk can refresh your child’s focus and motivation, helping them return to their homework with more energy.

Create a Rewards System

• Positive reinforcement can motivate children to stick to their homework routine. Simple rewards like earning screen time, reading a favorite story, or a small treat after completing tasks can provide extra encouragement.

Keep Communication Open

• Regularly check in with your child during their routine, offering guidance when they seem stuck and giving them the independence to work through challenges. Make sure they know they can ask for help if needed, which helps reduce any homework anxiety.

Example Daily Routine:

By creating a structured and supportive routine, you’re helping to make homework a positive and manageable experience that can foster responsibility and a lifelong habit of organized, productive work.

Encouraging Independence and Accountability

One of the best ways to support your child with homework is to foster their sense of independence and accountability. Homework allows children to develop critical life skills, such as time management, problem-solving, and responsibility. Instead of solving problems or completing assignments for them, focus on guiding them toward finding their answers and managing their workload.

Discuss the day’s assignments with them, helping them break down large tasks into smaller, manageable parts. For example, if they have a book report due at the end of the week, encourage them to outline a schedule that includes reading, drafting, and reviewing time. This approach teaches them to plan their work and understand how to approach long-term projects without feeling overwhelmed.

It’s also helpful to let them face minor setbacks or challenges independently while being there for support if needed. Please encourage them to ask questions, think critically, and explore problem-solving methods. By promoting a growth mindset, you can help them see that mistakes are a natural part of learning and that effort and perseverance are more important than perfection.

Finally, please set up a system for tracking completed assignments, whether it’s a checklist, planner, or app. Celebrating completed work, even in small ways, reinforces their accountability and helps them feel accomplished. This practice not only boosts their self-esteem but also helps instill a lasting sense of responsibility toward their learning.

Using Resources and Tools

Supporting your child’s homework with reliable resources and tools can significantly impact their understanding and productivity. Here are some recommended resources across various subjects:

Math and Science

• Khan Academy – Offers free tutorials, interactive exercises, and lessons across numerous subjects, including math and science.
• Wolfram Alpha – An advanced tool for complex math and science problems, providing solutions and explanations that support deeper understanding.

English and Writing

• Grammarly – A real-time grammar and style checker that helps with editing, word choice, and writing clarity.
• Hemingway Editor – Highlights complex sentences and provides readability suggestions, helping improve writing skills.

General Research and Learning

• National Geographic Kids – Offers engaging content on geography, science, and history, making learning fun and interactive.
• BBC Bitesize – An excellent source for revision and study materials, particularly helpful for students in grades K-12.

Public Library Services

• Many public libraries offer free online tutoring, databases, and e-books. Check your local library’s website or visit in person to see what resources are available for students.

Encouraging your child to use these tools can make homework less daunting and more interactive, helping them build essential skills in a supportive, resource-rich environment.

Positive Reinforcement and Motivation

Keeping children motivated during homework time can be challenging, but incorporating positive reinforcement can make a huge difference. Recognizing their efforts and celebrating small achievements boosts their confidence and encourages them to keep going.

Here are some strategies for fostering motivation:

Set Achievable Goals Break down homework tasks into manageable goals. Completing each small goal, like finishing a set of math problems or reading a chapter, gives a sense of accomplishment and momentum.

Reward Efforts, Not Just Results Acknowledge effort and persistence rather than focusing solely on grades or correct answers. Praise phrases like, “I can see you worked hard on this,” show appreciation for their dedication and build resilience.

Use a Reward System Consider a simple reward system, like earning points for completing assignments or time spent studying. Points can add up to rewards, such as extra screen time, a favorite activity, or a small treat. This encourages consistency without adding pressure.

Offer Encouragement and Support Actively listen to your child’s challenges and frustrations, offering encouragement rather than criticism. Remind them that learning is a process, and it’s okay to make mistakes along the way.

Celebrate Progress and Milestones Whether it’s mastering a tough concept or completing a week’s worth of assignments on time, celebrate these moments! Acknowledging their progress reinforces the value of hard work and persistence.

By focusing on positive reinforcement, you’re creating a supportive learning environment that builds your child’s confidence and enjoyment in learning. Over time, these small gestures of encouragement can develop a lasting motivation to approach homework with a positive attitude.

Knowing When to Step In or Seek Extra Help

As a parent, it’s important to balance supporting your child and allowing them to work independently. Sometimes, despite everyone’s best efforts, homework may become overwhelming, or certain subjects may pose unique challenges. Recognizing when to step in or seek additional support can prevent frustration and help your child succeed.

Here’s how to navigate this:

Recognize Signs of Struggle Pay attention to signs that your child might struggle with, such as consistently poor grades in one subject, frequent frustration, or avoiding homework. These can indicate areas where they may need extra support.

Offer Help, but Don’t Take Over When your child struggles with a particular task, guide them through it by asking questions and prompting their thought process. Please encourage them to explain what they understand and where they’re getting stuck. This approach fosters critical thinking without you taking control.

Use School Resources Many schools offer extra help or tutoring programs. Teachers are often willing to provide additional guidance if they know a student is putting in the effort but needs extra support. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher for recommendations or to understand better where your child might be struggling.

Consider Professional Tutoring If challenges persist, a professional tutor can be a great resource. Tutors offer targeted help and personalized strategies to help your child catch up and gain confidence in specific subjects. Many tutors now offer in-person and online options, making it more convenient to find the right fit.

Online Learning Tools Numerous online platforms provide free or affordable resources for extra help, covering everything from math and science to language arts. Websites like Khan Academy, IXL, and even educational YouTube channels can provide extra practice and explanations tailored to different learning levels.

Encourage Peer Study Groups Sometimes, children benefit from working with peers. Study groups allow them to learn collaboratively, share ideas, and gain different perspectives. Encourage your child to form study groups with classmates to make learning more interactive and less isolating.

Knowing when to step in or seek additional help shows your child that it’s okay to ask for support when things get tough. This approach helps them academically and teaches them the valuable life skill of seeking assistance when needed.

Final Thoughts

Helping your child with homework is a journey that goes beyond just completing assignments—it’s about building their confidence, cultivating lifelong learning habits, and fostering resilience. While each child learns differently, your support, patience, and guidance can significantly impact their academic journey.

By creating a positive and organized study environment, setting realistic expectations, and using available resources effectively, you’re setting your child up for immediate and long-term success. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection but progress. Celebrate small victories, keep communication open, and encourage growth.

As your child navigates through challenges and triumphs, know that you’re equipping them with skills they’ll carry far beyond the classroom. Helping with homework is just one chapter in their educational journey, but it’s an important one that strengthens your bond and their belief in themselves. With patience, consistency, and a positive approach, you can make homework time a rewarding experience for both of you.

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