Creating a relaxed homework atmosphere
What does homework time look like at your house?
I bet if you asked 10 families that question, you’d get just as many answers!
For kids who love school, homework is just another part of the joy of learning. But for a child who’s struggling in certain subjects or has a condition that makes learning more difficult, homework can seem like a punishment.
Why not try to make homework time feel special? Here are five ideas to give you some inspiration!
1- A positive attitude
In my opinion, a parent’s attitude strongly influences their child’s mindset during homework time. Can your child sense that you’d rather be somewhere else? Do you genuinely enjoy supervising their work? This moment of the day is an opportunity for you to spend time with your child. Sure, both of you have a specific task to accomplish, but you can still enjoy each other’s company!
If you approach homework time as one of the highlights of your day, your sunny attitude will rub off on your child.
2- A relaxed environment
A positive attitude goes a long way, but creating a relaxed homework space can also do wonders. Children can learn just about anywhere. Instead of mimicking the formal, rigid setting of a classroom, why not opt for a casual workspace?
Putting a mattress on the floor with a few cushions, for example, will give your child a cozy, comfortable spot that’s nothing like the school environment they spend all day in.
3- A fun snack
Kids are often hungry when they get home from school. Serving up a snack during homework time could be the perfect solution! At my house, monkey platters — a variety of snacks laid out on a divided serving dish — are always a hit.
Kids love them because they get to have a little of everything. After all, it’s hard to learn on an empty stomach!
4- A costume or theme
For young kids, turning homework time into a game can be very effective. Dressing up or establishing a theme will make this part of the day more playful and lighthearted.
For example, you could pretend to be superheroes who have to solve a few math problems in order to save mankind. After all, kids love an excuse to put on a cape and mask!
5- A reward system
I know that many families manage their children’s screen time and other leisure activities using a coupon system, where each coupon represents a certain number of minutes. Why not give your kids the chance to earn coupons for doing their homework?
I know that many families manage their children’s screen time and other leisure activities using a coupon system, where each coupon represents a certain number of minutes. Why not give your kids the chance to earn coupons for doing their homework? I’m a firm believer in doing things for the right reasons (e.g., doing homework because you want to), but I also think it’s okay to use a reward system if a child is really struggling. I hope these ideas help make homework time in your family more relaxed and enjoyable!
I hope these ideas help make homework time in your family more relaxed and enjoyable!