How to Keep Your Child Focused While Doing Homework

Helping your child to concentrate fully while doing his or her homework can be very stressful. So many kids don't want to do it. They are already tired from a full day at school and the last thing on their mind is doing more work. With these helpful tips you should be able to make the whole experience easier.

Things You Will Need

A room that has no distractions.

Everything that will be needed to finish the work. Example: pencils, erasers, paper, etc.

A small and quick game to play during breaks, like Connect 4, or cards.

Patience...we always need patience.

Step 1

Remove all possible distractions from the room. Whatever room you choose to do the homework in you must make sure that it is empty of possible distractions. The TV should not be on, no music, no toys sitting on the table, and certainly no siblings running around making noise. It should simply be a place for concentrating on the one thing, homework. If you feel like there is no place like this in your home then going outside would even work.

Step 2

Don't get upset when your child gets mad or frustrated. Remember that what they are learning is all new for them, and mistakes will happen. Keep your calm and explain things as best you can. Sometimes, for younger kids, pretending like you don't know how to do the work either makes your child want to show you how. If your son or daughter simply doesn't want to do the work and starts to have a tantrum, take a break...cool off...give him or her 10 minutes to think about what is happening and then come back and talk it out. Giving a young person time to analyze the situation themselves and make the right decisions can really help getting over their own frustrations quick.

Step 3 Give frequent breaks. Every kid needs a break from what they consider to be boring work. The goal when doing homework is to keep their attention, and although giving them 10-15 minute breaks may seem like a hassle since the work will only take longer, having a happy kid sitting next to you instead of a cranky one is a big bonus. Playing quick games is the best bet. Connect 4 is a fast paced fun game for all ages...it gives your child that quick release they need. Plus, it's another great opportunity to spend time with your son or daughter. That is always good.
Step 4

Make a mistake. Sounds crazy but kids like to know that you can make mistakes too. If you are working on a particular assignment that is difficult for your child, make a mistake on purpose when doing a problem with them. Vocalize that you made the mistake...show him or her what you should have done, and correct it. Your child will feel good knowing that everyone makes mistakes and that it not only ok but that it is normal.

Keep in mind these helpful steps may not work for all children. Every child is different and responds discipline in their own way. You know your child best, and can incorporate things they like to these tips to make it even better for them!

Tips & Warnings