Since you were once a child yourself, you know how frustrating homework can be at the end of a long day after attending school. Yet, if we didn’t think doing homework as a kid was difficult enough on its own, helping your child with their homework can be even more challenging. 

Frustrations can arise on your end as well as your child’s and some days leave you both pulling your hair out. The good news is that with the right approach not only can you successfully help your child with their homework, but even turn it into a positive experience that you both enjoy. 

Here are some of the best tips to effectively help your child with their homework and set them up for success at school.

Encourage and Support

Let’s face it, we don’t always have the answers on hand to help with homework. Sometimes we have to turn to Google to know things like the difference between an air cooled chiller and a water cooled chiller.  However, while we may not always have all the answers, we do have something that matters even more— encouragement.  

Offer your child plenty of reassurance and help them believe that they’re capable of finishing their assignment. Let them know that you believe in their abilities and lift them up when they get frustrated! 

Set a Schedule

A schedule is critical when it comes to homework time. If playtime spills over into homework time, you can find your child frustrated and struggling with productivity. Set clear guidelines on when homework should be completed, and when they should be totally focused. The more that they get into a routine of when they should be working, the less homework time will become a power struggle. 

Above all, make sure that the homework schedule is realistic. You can’t expect them to work at an unreasonable speed that won’t allow them enough time to successfully complete their work.

Stay in Contact With Their Teacher

It’s important that you communicate regularly with their teacher to ensure that they’re meeting their expectations in class.  Rather than waiting until report cards come around, stay in contact consistently so that any issues that arise don’t come up as a surprise. If your child’s teacher expresses that your child is having problems with their homework, then work together to find a way for a solution. Ideally, your child will have a teacher that understands where you’re coming from and is compassionate for not only your child but also you as a parent trying to help your child succeed.

Create The Perfect Working Space

It’s critical that your child has a space to work in that promotes focus and hard work. They should have a quiet part of the house where there are no distractions from other family members, outside noise, or screens. Make sure that there’s plenty of light, a comfortable chair, and of course a clean clutter free table that will help them stay as focused as possible.