Encouraging kids to do their homework isn't always easy.
According to a nationwide study conducted in 2004 by the Institute for Social Research, the amount of time children spend on homework is up 51 percent since 1981. Whether this is due to an increased effort or an increased workload is unclear -- what is clear is that some parents have difficulty getting kids to do their homework. There are several tools that parents can use to motivate their reluctant students.
Words
The language we use with our children is important. The word "homework" has negative implications. It's extra work for our kids to do outside of school, and the word says it all. Start using the word "study" instead of "homework." Using this tool also eliminates the protests of "I don't have any homework!" Whether or not your child claims to have homework, he should have a regular study time which isn't about homework.
Routine
Children need structure as much as they need freedom. Establishing a regular study routine is an essential tool. Let them have some input over scheduling; but once the time is agreed upon, stick to it. Keep the routine predictable, perhaps notifying them five minutes in advance. It may take several weeks of protests for the routine to become natural, but repetition and persistence are necessary for good study habits.
Socratic Method
Don't do assignments or problems for your child, but help when asked. The best way of teaching without doing the work for them is to employ the Socratic method -- ask questions. If they keep complaining they can't do it, ask more specific questions regarding the problem. Start with general questions and narrow it down as the situation requires. For example, begin with: "What's the first step?" Then, "What parts do you understand?" And finally, "How could you find out?"
Organization
The ability to organize is a valuable life skill, and teaching your child to do this can make homework less painful. But you have to spend time showing her how by providing a very simple system for organization. Provide a space of her own to organize, such as a table or a desk. Let her decide how she would like to arrange essential items, such as pencils, paper, a dictionary and folders. Help her create an agenda if the workload warrants it. At first, check up on her system regularly to make sure it's functioning and make corrections as needed. As she demonstrates increasing efficiency and reliability, you can check less frequently. If she needs time management training, show her organize each task and prioritize by due dates and importance. Organization can be a powerful tool in getting kids to do their homework as it makes the task less intimidating and puts them in control.
