10 Strategies for Getting Your Child Under 10 to Do Homework
Getting children under the age of 10 to sit down and complete their homework can be a challenging task for many parents. At this age, children are naturally curious and easily distracted, which can make focusing on schoolwork difficult. However, with the right strategies, you can turn homework time into a productive and even enjoyable experience for both you and your child. Here are the top 10 strategies to help you motivate your child to do their homework.
1. Create a Homework Routine
Establishing a consistent routine is key to creating a productive homework environment. Set a specific time each day for homework, so your child knows what to expect. Whether it’s right after school or after some playtime, a routine helps reduce the daily struggle of getting started.
Why It Works:
Children thrive on routine because it creates predictability and structure. When they know homework time is always at the same time, it becomes a habit rather than a daily battle.
2. Designate a Homework Space
Having a dedicated homework space can help your child focus better. Choose a quiet, well-lit area thatโs free from distractions like TV, toys, or loud noises. Stock the space with all the necessary suppliesโpencils, paper, and other school materialsโso your child has everything they need within reach.
Why It Works:
A specific workspace signals to your child that itโs time to focus. When they sit in that area, theyโll associate it with getting homework done, making it easier for them to concentrate.
3. Break Tasks into Smaller Steps
Large assignments or long worksheets can feel overwhelming to a young child. Break homework tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. For example, if your child has 20 math problems, start with five, then take a short break before continuing.
Why It Works:
Children under 10 have shorter attention spans. Breaking tasks into smaller chunks helps them stay focused without feeling overwhelmed, making homework more manageable.
4. Use a Timer for Focus and Breaks
Timers are a great tool for managing homework time. Set a timer for 15 or 20 minutes of focused work, followed by a short 5-minute break. This technique, often referred to as the Pomodoro Technique, helps children stay engaged while knowing a break is coming soon.
Why It Works:
Timed intervals create a sense of urgency and focus, while scheduled breaks prevent burnout and frustration. It also makes the process feel more structured and achievable.
5. Incorporate Positive Reinforcement
Children respond well to praise and positive reinforcement. After completing a homework assignment or even part of an assignment, offer words of encouragement, a high five, or a small reward. You could also use a sticker chart where they earn a sticker for every task completed.
Why It Works:
Positive reinforcement encourages continued effort. When children feel proud of their accomplishments, they are more likely to stay motivated and develop a positive attitude toward homework.
6. Make It Fun and Interactive
Turning homework into a fun activity can increase your child’s willingness to participate. Use colored pencils for drawing, make a game out of math problems, or use educational apps that make learning more interactive. Adding a playful element can transform homework from a chore into an enjoyable task.
Why It Works:
Children learn best when theyโre engaged and having fun. By incorporating playful elements, you keep their attention longer and make homework feel less like a burden.
7. Stay Involved, But Donโt Take Over
Itโs important to be available for help but resist the urge to do the homework for your child. Offer guidance, explain instructions, or demonstrate how to solve a problem, but allow your child to work through the tasks independently.
Why It Works:
Your involvement shows that youโre supportive, but letting your child complete their own homework fosters independence, responsibility, and confidence in their abilities.
8. Set Clear Expectations and Rules
Make sure your child understands that homework is a priority and must be completed before playtime, TV, or other activities. Setting clear rules helps them recognize that homework is non-negotiable, and theyโll be more likely to comply if they know whatโs expected.
Why It Works:
Children need boundaries and clear expectations to feel secure. When they understand the rules around homework, theyโre less likely to argue or delay getting started.
9. Allow for Some Flexibility
While a routine is important, itโs also crucial to be flexible and understanding. If your child is feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or tired, consider adjusting the homework time or allowing for a short mental break. Sometimes, a little leniency goes a long way in preventing frustration.
Why It Works:
Being too rigid can create resistance, especially when children feel pressured. Flexibility helps children feel heard and respected, making them more willing to cooperate in the long run.
10. Communicate with Teachers
If homework continues to be a struggle, donโt hesitate to reach out to your childโs teacher. They can provide insight into the purpose of the assignments, offer suggestions for managing homework time, and work with you to find solutions that fit your childโs needs.
Why It Works:
Teachers can provide valuable guidance and adjust the workload if necessary. When teachers and parents collaborate, it ensures that the childโs needs are being met both at home and in the classroom.
Conclusion
Helping children under 10 complete their homework doesnโt have to be a daily battle. By using strategies like establishing a routine, incorporating fun elements, and providing positive reinforcement, you can create an environment where homework becomes a manageable part of their day. Patience, flexibility, and clear communication with your child and their teacher will go a long way in turning homework into a positive experience for everyone.
Have some tips you would like to share? Drop them in the comments below!
Vanessa Rooney – LDS Mum
Check out our Homework Logs & Student Planners
Homework Schedule Free Download
Homework Schedule + 100 Page Student Planner $3.99