5 Tips for Doing Homework Outdoors

If you give your child permission to do their homework outside, that doesn’t mean they get to play or chase butterflies, and they need to understand that. Clear rules are needed right from the start to ensure that everyone gets the most out of the experience. Here are a few things to keep in mind when establishing outdoor homework time:

• Make your expectations clear (e.g., set a time limit, explain that they must work quietly)
• Organize homework time
• Have a contingency plan for surprise visits from friends
• Etc.

Where’s the best place to do homework outside? This question requires some thought. Try to find a spot that meets these criteria:

• Peaceful
• Shady (i.e., bright enough so your child doesn’t strain their eyes, but not in full sun)
• Close to the house so you can keep an eye on your child’s progress
• Spacious enough for a small table and chair
• Etc.

Nothing’s more frustrating than getting set up only to realize that you’ve left a textbook in the house! Help your child avoid this kind of disruption by making a checklist:

• School materials
• A water bottle
• A hat
• Etc.

Whether you’re in the city or country, the outdoors is not only a great place to study, but also a treasure trove of useful learning tools. So why not make the most of it? Here are some ways your child can use nature to learn:

• Use pebbles to do math tables
• Practise writing on fallen leaves
• Make geometric shapes out of dead branches
• Practise mental math by counting fence posts
• Sort the parked cars on the street (group the cars by size, colour, etc.)
• Etc.

Sometimes it’s hard to tell whether those dark clouds mean rain. Keep unexpected weather from ruining outdoor homework time by creating a routine for overcast days. That way, you’ll prevent a sudden downpour from ruining your child’s assignments or school books. Here are some rain-proofing strategies:

• Choose a sheltered spot under a balcony, gazebo, or parasol
• Have an umbrella on standby
• Make sure your child brings their raincoat
• Provide plastic sleeves for their papers
• Etc.