How to Get Your Kids to Do Their Homework
As any parent knows, getting your child to do their homework can be an almost impossible task. There are endless excuses and reasons our kids will give us for why they can't (or won't) do their homework: It's too hard, I don't have time, I want to go play, I left it at school… overcome these excuses with these simple tips on how to get your kid to do their homework.
Set up organization and schedules
Many kinds find homework overwhelming because they aren't mature enough yet to really think about organization and scheduling. This is where you, the (hopefully) organized adult, come in! Teach your child how to properly use simple organization methods like labeled folders or binders, and create a simple schedule to keep your kid on track. You don't need to micromanage their day, but make sure to schedule time every day for homework or studying. When your child has a set time to do their homework, they'll be less likely to procrastinate and do everything last minute.
Offer to help when necessary
Kids aren't perfect, and they may need additional instruction and help once they're out of the classroom for the day. Don't be afraid to offer your help if you see that they're struggling! Tough assignments, new material and big projects are all opportunities for you to lend your child a hand. But remember that school work is intended to enrich your child's mind, so don't be "that parent" that does their work for them. Teachers won't be fooled if your 10 year old shows up with a children essay project done by a professional!
Provide incentive, but avoid outright bribery
It might be very tempting to simply bribe your child with money, toys or other treats in exchange for the completion of their homework. However, this is just a quick fix that will eventually backfire on you. Instead of offering bribes like money or toys each time you want them to get something done, create incentives for your children to consistently do their school work. The incentives should be rewarding, but you can avoid the "bribery" feeling by making incentives less monetary. Longer curfews, more responsibility, letting them choose what's for dinner on a Friday night… these are incentives which won't turn into a nasty habit like promising Bobby a new toy every time he does his Math homework.
