TOP 10 WAYS TO REDUCE HOMEWORK STRESS IN YOUR CHILD

TOP 10 WAYS TO REDUCE HOMEWORK STRESS IN YOUR CHILD

·         Set up a study area:

A place dedicated only to homework and studying is the most important aspect of reducing homework stress. An area clear of chaos makes it easier for your child to focus and feel calm while doing homework.

·         Involve yourself:

Not all kids are able to handle homework all by themselves. Some need parental help. So if you find your child overwhelmed by homework, do help him/her in completing the assignments. But be careful to know your limits... as some parents do the homework rather than helping their child do the homework.

·         Stay positive about and during homework:

Children learn most habits from parents... be it good or bad. So if you believe that your child can do the homework successfully…he/she will also believe in it.

·         Break the homework down into small parts:

Set smaller goals towards completing the assignments.  Allow your child to take breaks in-between goals.  Also let your child to set a timer to alert him/her when the break is over, so that he/she can get back to work again. This will reduce homework stress tremendously.

·         Teach your child to relax.

Difficult homework assignments and the pressure to complete multiple projects can cause anxiety, frustration, and even anger in kids. And your child might possibly go through such a tough time once in a while. So help your child to learn a few stress management techniques, such as meditation, listening to music etc. so that he/she can manage stress better.

·         Encourage your child to have a healthy snack or even a meal before homework.

It is difficult to concentrate and feel balanced when hungry. A healthy meal or snack can make a huge difference.

·         Encourage your child to do homework every day.

When doing something on a regular basis, it will become a habit. So encourage your child to do homework or to review notes/lessons every day so that when it is time for a test/exam they are not overloaded with information.

·         Breaks are a must even for older children.

Don’t expect your teenager to be able to sit still for long periods of time. Let him/her to move as needed - go outside to get some fresh air or have a good laugh.

·         Help your child understand the homework. 

Many children waste time by doing the homework incorrectly because they did not understand the directions. Going over the directions before beginning to do the homework will save time and also reduce unnecessary stress.

·         Be an honest supporter to your child.

Lastly, if you feel that your child is overwhelmed or overloaded by homework and it is affecting his/her quality of life, speak to your child’s teacher. He/she will be happy to sort things out.