How to Help Your Child Focus on Homework

How to Help Your Child Focus on Homework

How to Help Your Child Focus on Homework

1. Cut back on the TV

Complete banishment of TV may seem harsh, but there are other ways to limit TV usage, especially on school nights. A good alternative rule would be that homework must be finished and checked before reaching for the remote. This goes for video games too! Or start with complete abstinence and make your child earn TV time where every hour of studying equals 30 minutes of TV or video games.

2. Use the computer judiciously

Computers have become "essential" for doing a homework assignment of any kind. Chances are your child is spending the majority of their homework time on social networking sites. For younger children especially, it is doubtful that your child needs to be on the computer to get their homework done. Unless your child is using their computer for tutoring and research, have them write out their homework the old fashioned way - with pen and paper - and type it up later.

3. Cell phones off

When your child is preparing for a test or writing a paper, ask them to put their cell phone on silent and stick it in my sock drawer so they wouldn't hear it go off. Another option could be to work the same system as with the TV reward - allow your child to check their messages at 30 minute intervals.

4. Positive Reinforcement

Many parents cringe at the idea of rewarding behavior that should be the norm, but it certainly can't hurt, as long as the reward isn't too extravagant. Strike a deal. For example, if your child can get all A's the semester prior to his or her 16th birthday, you will buy him or her a cell phone plan as a birthday gift or any other popular electronic device, within reasonable budget. It can work, and both parties can get what they want!

5. Set a good example

Put yourself in your child's shoes. If you were struggling with homework while your parents were yakking it up in front of the TV wouldn't you be resentful and frustrated? When your child sits down to do their homework, break that book you've been meaning to read and sit down with them. Make sure they know that you are available to help them too! If you're at work and aren't available to help them on homework, find someone who is.

- Lilly Golden, Examville Blog Contributor

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