Take a 5 Minute Homework Break

Homework seems to be on everyone’s mind this week. Now that we know children will be home from school longer than originally planned, time at home is feeling less like an extended vacation and more like the new normal.

And with the new normal comes remote, online school for kids of all ages. Kids are confused and frustrated. Parents are confused and frustrated. Not only are kids now trying to teach themselves a lot of their work, they are trying to navigate online systems, and find time to complete their work through the numerous and fun distractions of home. Parents are trying to take on the role of teacher while managing their own work and responsibilities.

Focus is a tough one when working from home – we know it as adults and kids are experiencing it now too. But there are some things that can help! Here are my tips for making homework time at home a little easier and more enjoyable.

1. Plan Homework Time at the same time everyday. This can help kids build a new routine with their school work, making it a little easier to say those golden words: “okay, I’ll go do it”.
2. Create a special homework space in your house and have kids do their work there every day. When we work in the same space we start to associate that space with the work we are doing, which can make it easier to stay focused and on task.
3. Remove distractions from the homework area. This one is especially important for young children and children with ADHD who may be more easily distracted by their surroundings.
4. Use the “First, Then” rule to help motivate children to get their work done. This means that homework comes first before the fun and exciting activities like playing outside or talking to friends online. First homework, then play.
5. Give young children and children with ADHD plenty of structured breaks from their homework. You can use the image below for ideas, pin it up on the wall in the homework area, or cut them up and put them into a bowl on the table for a surprise activity at each break!

Good luck and Enjoy!

Until next time,

Meg