Is your child’s schoolwork taking more out of you than it should do? Homework can be a battle even if you're lucky enough to have a super compliant kid, (and if you’re dealing with transitions for kids with ADHD and other neuro differences it can be even harder). But after a long day of schoolwork, all anyone wants to do is relax which is completely fair! You know your child is capable, but schools expect so much of them, and as much as their home learning is important you cant help but feel sorry for them when they bring home a load more learning (after spending all day learning).
Consider a reset
Once your child gets home, you'll be well aware how their brain is worn out from trying to focus all day. After a full day of schoolwork their mental and physical energy is likely to be all used up, it doesn't leave much in the tank for homework and who can blame them? Even if you want to just get the homework out the way so you can all relax, giving them a little time to reset after school can stop that instant refusal the second homework is mentioned. If they like to go out into the garden to run around and get some fresh air this can be great, or you could stop by the park on the way home from school. You might find that your child will happily spend a bit of time on a hobby they enjoy and this can be a great way to decompress. Even something as simple as a snack and a chance to chill with a book or some music can let their brain switch gears before you then ask them to do anything else this is something that even as adults we need, so why wouldn't it be the same for our kids?
Break it into smaller pieces
Homework can sometimes look simple to adults, but it can feel overwhelming to kids who are already tired. When the work is split up into more manageable pieces it can make such a difference to how achievable it feels. If it’s a bigger project or a longer piece of work then show them how it can be broken up into smaller parts, this is a good skill to have later on too when they’re revising for exams.
Keep it low pressure
Deadlines and timers will more than likely make things worse when their focus is already at its limit. If you take away the pressure they'll likely work much better. If one bit is causing stress, leave it and carry on with something else instead. Sometimes going back to something later on or the next day with fresh eyes can fix the issue you’re having. After a good nights sleep they might get up in the morning before school and find they can wrap their head around something they were struggling with the night before.
Remember your priorities
Some nights just aren't the night for homework and that's okay. Its ok to priorities your child's mental state (and your own!), you can still be a good parent that supports their education. Not every day will be perfect, its more consistency that you're aiming for.
Comments