Five Tips to Avoid Homework Frustration

Homework frustration is the last thing you want to happen with your children. It can be stressful for all parties involved and can lead to poor grade averages. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Here are five tips to avoid homework frustration.

Have a Dedicated Homework Spot

Homework should be done consistently and in a dedicated area. Your child’s homework spot doesn’t need to be fancy. It just needs to be consistent and easy to access. A desk with all supplies handy is best, but even if it has to be the kitchen or dining room table, make it a routine. To avoid homework frustration, the fewer distractions around, the better. Make sure all electronics not needed for homework purposes are turned off and out of reach.

Make Sure Your Child Stays Organized

Your child doesn’t need to be immaculate, but be sure their class assignments are in order. Some schools have instructions regarding how to organize schoolwork. Follow these if they apply. Otherwise, to avoid homework frustration, help your child come up with a system that works best for them.

Go Over Assignments Every Day After School

Know what your child is working on when they come home. This helps you keep up to date on what they’re doing well with and what they aren’t. Also, because you know what’s being worked on, it’s easier for you to help. This also makes it easier for your child to feel comfortable asking for help. You’ll also learn what methods to use and which to avoid. Homework frustration is less likely when you have a consistent routine and an open line of communication.

Keep Good After School Snacks in Easy Reach

One of the most important things needed for good performance on homework is the proper fuel. A good nutritious snack with water or a healthy drink will help refuel your child after a long school day. Keep these snacks within consistent, easy reach so that your child can grab them on their own if needed. Oftentimes, homework frustration stems from being hungry, which can cause a child to be irritable. This is a very easily preventable issue.

Take a Break in Between

Rather than insisting your kids finish their homework all at once, let them take a break and do something fun for a little bit. Activities that get them away from the schoolwork, but are also regenerating for their mind and body are best. A nature walk or yoga may help. Singing and dancing are also good for regenerative activities. However, be sure not to let your child take a nap, as they may be done with homework after that. This is especially true for children with longer school days, as they may simply stay asleep for the night once they lie down. If they need a nap after school, consider making that a routine before homework starts and have a consistent wake-up time for completing afternoon activities, dinner, and homework.