As a parent, you want to provide your kids with the best possible education. But when it comes to homework, stress can often get in the way. Here are a few tips to help you reduce homework stress for you and your kids and make learning a fun and enjoyable experience.
How to Reduce Homework Stress
Reducing homework stress can often feel overwhelming, like an elephant in the room, unsure where to start or how to begin. And it’s not just for the kids. According to Education Week, “over 50% of parents struggle to help their kids complete their homework assignments.” But with some simple steps, you can meaningfully transform your child's homework experience.
Consider the following tips:
Create a dedicated workspace
A quiet, comfortable workspace can help your child focus and reduce distractions. Make sure the area is well-lit and has all the necessary supplies, such as pencils, paper, and a computer.
Decorate your kid's workspace
If you have the dedicated space or bandwidth, consider what would help your kid feel comfortable and focused and let them take the lead on creating a space of their own. Maybe they love specific patterns or colors? Perhaps they enjoy cozy blankets or bouncy chairs? For example, adding a personal item like a photo, keepsake, or toy can help spark joy and connections.
Set realistic expectations
Don't expect your child to sit down and do hours of homework every night. Break down assignments into smaller, more manageable chunks. Every kid is unique and adapts to learning differently, so consider how your child learns and set expectations based on that style.
Set a schedule
This one can be challenging, but pick a time that works best for your child. For example, maybe they need downtime, an afternoon snack before homework, or perhaps playtime first to get some energy out. What's great about setting a schedule is that it's completely flexible, and you can change it as many times as you need to fit the family's schedule. Try one way, and if you need to adjust, feel free to adjust as many times as you need.
Take breaks
Kids need to take breaks throughout the day, especially when stressed. Encourage your child to get up and move around or spend some time doing something they enjoy, such as playing outside or listening to music. In addition, you may want to consider breaking up their homework into blocks based on subjects.
Be supportive and encouraging
Let your child know you're there for them and believe in them. Offer praise and encouragement and help them learn from their mistakes. Making mistakes is an excellent way for kids to understand processes, foundations, and workflows. Mistakes are a great way to learn. Celebrate the mistakes together. Also, you may create a weekly win board to celebrate the milestones, dips, and mountains achieved throughout the week.
Do homework together
This may seem like an obvious tip, but life is busy. Often juggling multiple jobs, schedules, and kids, it can be easy to multitask during homework time. Try your best to be present to help answer questions or provide support. If your child is already experiencing stress with their homework, just you being there can help them feel more comfortable with their challenging task.
Seek additional support if needed
If your child regularly struggles with homework stress, it may be helpful to seek additional resources. A number of in-person, virtual, and online supplemental tools can help your child identify the source of stress and develop coping mechanisms.
Reduce Stress From Homework with Breaks and Supportive Resources
Whether your kid has anxiety over math homework, doesn't want to do homework, or just needs additional support, creating a schedule, taking breaks, and working together is a great place to start. Remember, you can always adjust, start over, or switch things up if you need more support.
For more learning at home, check out BrainPOP Homeschool!
Kelli Rascoe is a Senior Content Strategy Manager at BrainPOP. She has nine years of experience in writing, content marketing, and strategy for tech and Fortune 500 brands. She is also a homeschool momma to a princess scientist and a pack of rescue pups.