7 Tips to Make Homework Easier
7 Tips to Make Homework Easier
Susie’s Snapshot
You’re not alone if the word “homework” conjures images of avoidance, tears and frustration. As a parent, it’s tough to find a happy medium between “nagging” your student to complete even the simplest assignments on time and feeling compassion for their struggles to learn, understand and stay focused. We’ve got 7 tips to help you get a head start on the new school year, make homework easier and reduce frustration for the entire family.
1. Create a designated homework area.
Although a desk in their bedroom may undoubtably provide a quiet and undisturbed space, even a dining room table or kitchen counter can fulfill your student’s needs. In fact, a common area may provide better access to parents who can provide assistance when needed. Ensure your student has the tools and materials they need to complete their work: a calculator, textbooks, laptop, pencils, protractors, etc.
2. Maintain a regular homework time.
Some students prefer to complete homework right after school to provide them with time to relax, socialize or engage in other activities. Others may need to delay homework until after sports practices, music lessons, etc. The key is to develop a routine and agreement that the designated homework time is to be used for school-focused work.
3. Get the entire family on board.
Siblings, as well as parents, can unintentionally provide a distraction when students are trying to complete homework. Enlist the support of all family members to a technology-free time and space for your student. Suggest tech-free ways to onboard siblings, such using the time to read, play quietly in their rooms, or go on a bike ride.
4. Establish a bedtime routine.
Sleep is vital to healthy development, memory formation and attention. While enforcing a bedtime can be a struggle for parents, a well-rested student has a better chance of exceling in school.
5. Keep them hydrated and fed.
Just as adults may have trouble maintaining their focus, energy and mood on an empty stomach, so do kids and teens. Rather than relying on sugary drinks or caffeine, invest in a good hydration bottle that will keep water or other low-sugar drinks cold and available while they complete their homework. Opt for brain-boosting snacks that combine low-fat protein and complex carbohydrates to help keep the brain maintain peak performance.
6. Use a student-specific calendar.
Break bigger projects down into smaller tasks and highlight deadlines on your student’s personal calendar. Having a visual plan can help reduce anxiety by providing a sense of control while increasing their chances of success. Be sure to include homework assignments, long-term projects and upcoming tests.
7. Invest in a program that focuses on study skills.
If you’re concerned that last year’s homework struggles will simply continue in the new school year, consider giving your student a head start by enrolling them in a program that strengthens the core learning skills students need to not only succeed, but excel. LearningRx’s StudyRx® program harnesses the power of brain training to make learning easier and faster. Designed for middle school, high school and college students, StudyRx teaches strategies for studying and homework. It’s perfect for students who want to strengthen specific learning skills (e.g., attention, processing speed, memory, etc.), who are having trouble with school, or those who simply want to boost their cognitive performance. Students work with a designated brain trainer throughout the duration of their sessions to target:
• Organizational skills
• Better study habits
• Improved essay writing
• Visualization and memory skills
• Stronger note-taking skills
• Enhanced test-taking abilities
• Homework strategies
• Planning and prioritizing skills
• Time management skills
• Confidence and perseverance
• Goal-setting strategies
Using a combination of mental drills, games and other activities, your student’s personal brain trainer will provide a workout for the brain’s core learning and thinking skills. It’s a science-backed approach to help your student maximize their potential in school, work and life in general. To learn more about LearningRx’s StudyRx program to help with executive functioning, study skills and organization, visit https://www.learningrx.com/learning-program/.
If you’re looking to break the frustrating patterns of last year’s homework and school struggles, consider implementing these tips to ensure this school year is the best yet!