Boosting Homework Success: Easy Ways to Help Your Child at Home

The new school year is underway, and that means it’s time for homework! Even though evenings can be jam-packed with activities, the support you offer at home can make a big difference for your child. Research from the Center for Public Education shows that when families get involved in their kids’ learning at home, it’s linked to higher student achievement. Here are five easy ways you can help your child make the most of their homework this year:

1. Take a break first. After a long day at school, your child might need some downtime before jumping into homework. Let them unwind with some outdoor play, a healthy snack, or a quick computer game. Giving them a little break can boost their focus when it’s time to start homework.
2. Be in the know. It’s a good idea to check in with your child’s teacher to see how long homework should typically take. If your child is spending way more time on it, their study habits might need a little tweaking. It could be that the workload or the approach needs some adjusting. Don’t hesitate to ask for homework help or suggestions on different study techniques.
3. Eliminate distractions. Set up a dedicated study space where your child can focus without interruptions. Keep the TV off, put social media on hold, and remove other distractions. A quiet, consistent environment can help them focus and learn how to study effectively.
4. Find what works. Every child is different, so finding the right study habits is key. If staying on task is tricky, try using a timer for short, focused work sessions—this is a great study technique. If your child needs a little movement, let them sit on an exercise ball or chew gum while they study.
5. Monitor and motivate. Keep the conversation going by asking about upcoming assignments and tests. Being there to offer encouragement and support can really help build your child’s study skills.

Staying involved in your child’s education after school can make a big difference. If you see your child getting frustrated or overwhelmed with homework or schoolwork, don’t hesitate to chat with their teacher or explore some extra help, like tutoring. We’re all in this together to create the best learning environment for your child.