Overcoming homework resistance!

Some children find homework a real challenge.  There are things we can do to support them and make it a more ‘chilled’ experience like making sure they have somewhere peaceful to work and turning off the tv.  Some children like to work in silence while others like music on in the background to break the tension and relax.  Nobody likes to do homework while hungry so a snack and a drink can make a big difference (staying away from sweet food can prevent a mid-homework sugar crash though!).

If there’s still resistance Lucy from Inspiring Kids who offer tutoring, mentoring and therapy services around Bournemouth & Bath has these excellent tips for you:   

1. Don’t assume your child is necessarily being lazy if they are reluctant to do their homework. There may be an underlying nervousness about the subject area or some confusion as to what is actually expected, so be sure to check with them that these are not the issues and always show you are on their side.

2. Some children with Special Educational Needs may be particularly reluctant to do homework. My own son with high-functioning autism has always felt it was ‘wrong’ to do school work at home and any battle with him on this would have ended very badly and put him even more off school! In situations like this, it’s always worth talking to the school as special dispensation can be given in the right circumstances.

3. Homework is more beneficial and is less fought against if it is kept to a reasonable amount of time. If the work set is supposed to take an hour and your child is struggling on two hours later, encourage your child to stop. You may need to quietly talk to the school about the amount being set if this happens regularly or consider whether your child is getting too anxious about producing perfect work. In my opinion, homework provides a useful opportunity for repetition of classwork, but doesn’t have to always be at the absolute highest level! Having some rest in the evening is more important for the child to cope with the next day.’ www.inspiringkids.co.uk