A 2008 Mumsnet survey found that 65% of parents had argued with their children about homework and that one third had completely some or all of their children’s homework! Homework is pretty high on the list of ‘things that stress parents out’, it seems. So how can you get your child to complete their homework without the bother of mostly doing it yourself or the hassle of cajoling a reluctant child who doesn’t want to sit down and work? Let Better Tuition‘s expert tutors explain how you can take the hassle out of homework.
What is the point of homework?
First, let’s consider why schools give homework. Homework should reinforce work covered in class, whilst encouraging independent learning. In other words, the homework given should be something they can do without (much) help. The exception to this is reading homework given to younger children; reading together is a great opportunity to spend quality time together.
What if my child’s homework is too hard?
If your child regularly receives homework which they find extremely difficult then it’s important to raise this as a concern with their teacher. On the other hand, homework should not be so easy that your child can complete it without really thinking about it. Homework should be appropriate to your child’s ability and good teachers rarely set the same homework for the whole class, unless the task is open-ended, such as carrying out research or writing a story.
NEVER complete your child’s homework for them: if a task is too difficult, speak to your child’s teacher about it and see how they can help.
How can I help my child with homework?
That isn’t to say you shouldn’t help your child at all with homework, and it’s a good idea to stay near your child when they are completing homework so that you can be on hand to encourage them if they seem to be distracted.
Choose the right time for homework: if it’s after a full day of schooling then let your child have a drink and/or healthy snack first. Make sure your child has a proper work surface. If this is a kitchen table then clear it completely. A cluttered surface is distracting.
Children concentrate best when there is nothing to distract them so keep the TV off but you could have some relaxing music playing in the background.
What if my child is super reluctant to complete their homework?
The best way to motivate a reluctant child is by setting a time limit and offering a low-key reward. Use a timer and say you want to see how much they can complete in ten minutes. When they have completed 10 minutes work, say you want to time them and see how long the rest of it takes. This method really works, but make sure they don’t rush their work and get it all wrong! Examples of low-key rewards could be watching TV, going to the park, or even beans on toast for tea. The main point of the reward is to give your child something to look forward to after homework. Never battle with your child over homework: simply tell them they can have their reward when it’s all finished.
I think my child needs extra help
No problem! Book a free assessment at the Better Tuition Centre and find out how we can help your child make rapid improvement. Working from our professionally equipped tuition centre in the heart of Urmston, we cover maths, English, science and entrance exam preparation and we achieve amazing results! Our methods develop concentration and our learning activities increase motivation. We only use fully qualified teachers – other tuition centres cannot make the same claim.
If you are from outside of Urmston and Stretford, please visit the Association of Professional Tuition Centres website to find a tuition centre offering expert tuition from fully qualified teachers.
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