Children often find it hard to sit still while they do their homework. They fidget, complain and can easily get distracted, which can turn a small task into an evening of work. It can be tiring for you, as well as them, as frustration can result in arguments, and after that homework never gets done.
It’s not easy to get your child to concentrate, so we’re here to provide several tips to keep them focused. Here are some ways to improve your child’s attention span and to ensure that their homework doesn’t take up both your evenings. Follow these tips and you will surely be pleased with the results.
Equip for Success
Prepare with the correct stationary such as, colourful pens, rulers and a working calculator. Imagine finally persuading your child to sit down and work, only to discover that you have no working pens in the house. There are plenty of discount school supplies to buy so that your child can get on with their homework without complaining about the lack of pens.
Get Moving
A child may wriggle in their seat because they’re restless, so get their body moving before you sit down. Do a few star jumps, go for a walk or simply run around the garden together to reduce their fidgeting during homework time. Exercise also increases energy and stimulates the brain, which will help their productivity and it will help them learn.
Use Little To-do lists
It can be overwhelming for a child when they have a big project to complete. So, cut it down into small, achievable tasks and create a list together. Remember to let them tick off their tasks with a colourful pen, or a sticker you’ve bought in preparation for their homework. This will give them a sense of achievement and rewards them for their hard work.
Switch Off Screens
This one’s for both of you. Turn your phones off, or on silent, and put them away. If you’re on your phone while they’re working, they might become irritated and unfocused. Likewise, reduce their screen time before and during their homework, so that they don’t get distracted. Follow this rule with tablets, television and games.
Positive Feedback
If they’ve only completed one question in an hour, it might be tempting to be negative, but instead consider the positives and congratulate them. Give immediate and positive feedback as this makes learning more rewarding for them. They’ll feel more inspired to continue to work, whereas constant negative comments can bring their energy down and make them more reluctant to work.
Sit back and see the results of using just a few of these tips. Next time your child brings home a chunk of homework you know you’ll be prepared. We know how tiring it can be to convince your child to do their homework. However, we hope that with these new techniques you’ll feel more equipped to keep your child focused and willing to complete their homework.
