In comprehensive research conducted by Duke University Psychology Professor Haris Cooper, it showed that homework resulted in better test scores and had improved study habits, attitude towards school, self-discipline, inquisitiveness, and independent problem-solving skills.
He also noted that the study resulted something opposite: kids experienced emotional fatigue and had limited leisure time due to homework.
Homeworks have also been a source of heated debate (do kids have too much?) but still, there is no escape from homework since it’s part of a current traditional educational system.
Here’s how you can help your kids think of homework less of a chore but of a learning experience.
1. Set A Regular Homework Time
It is important to agree on a regular homework time to make sure your child’s homework is done. It doesn’t have to be an exact hour on the clock. According to HealthyChildren.org, some kids don’t respond well when they think of an exact time like 4 o’clock. Instead, observe what instance your kid is more motivated, like upon coming home from school or after a break and done having snacks.
2. Set A Designated Study Spot
Just like adults, kids need a workspace to help them concentrate on their homework. “No matter what place you choose, it needs to be well lit and quiet, without the distractions of the television set, other children playing, or people talking on the telephone,” says AAP. Writing and coloring materials should be ready and within reach of your child as well.
3. Stay Nearby
According to teacher Lori Durocher, preschool-aged kids need parents to supervise them during homework. You can explain the instructions and ask your child to explain to you what needs to be done. Then, let your child do the rest and review their work soon after. “You should be nearby but not next to him,” Durocher says. “This empowers him.” If he doesn’t understand something, you’ll be nearby to clarify.
4. Allow Your Child To Make Mistakes
Review your child’s work and point out to him where he might have wrong answers but do not fix it for them. “Letting her work through her assignment will teach her persistence and help her build grit,” says Cathy Vatterott, Ph.D., professor of education at the University of Missouri-St. Louis and author of Rethinking Homework. Making a mistake is important for your child’s learning and development so it’s important how your child’s answers gauge your child’s learning.
5. Make Learning Fun
Learning should be fun and not rigid. In an article for Very well, a former editor at Parenting and Working Mother Katherine Lee advised that you should incorporate fun stuff as you help your child learn new concepts like addition and subtraction. This fosters a positive attitude towards homework. For example, using small toys such as marbles or playing cards can help your child visualize math problems.
6. Have Breaks
Especially with multiple homework, make sure to let your kid have breaks in between. “Young children (age 4-5) can usually concentrate for somewhere between 5 and 20 minutes, depending on the task — less time with novel and challenging tasks, and more time with those intrinsically enjoyable activities,” says clinical psychologist Jamie M. Howard, Ph.D., says in an article
7. Use Gadgets
“We’re living in a world where the digital age is here. It’s a reality. It’s a tool that’s necessary,” says Michelle Lichauco-Tambunting, co-founder and directress of Young Creative Minds Preschool. Kids nowadays go online if they want to search for something they are curious about. Incorporate gadget use for learning purposes. “I don’t think screen time is bad as long as it’s purposeful,” says Edric and Joy Mendoza, parents of five children.
