homework tips for parents

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Strategies to make homework go more smoothly.

Routines and incentive systems to help kids succeed

Writer: Peg Dawson, EdD, NCSP

Clinical Expert: Peg Dawson, EdD, NCSP

Here is the best guide to helping kids do homework successfully that we’ve seen, published by the National Association of School Psychologists on their website, NASPonline.org . Our thanks to NASP for sharing it with us.

There are two key strategies parents can draw on to reduce homework hassles. The first is to establish clear routines around homework, including when and where homework gets done and setting up daily schedules for homework. The second is to build in rewards or incentives to use with children for whom “good grades” is not a sufficient reward for doing homework.

Homework Routines

Tasks are easiest to accomplish when tied to specific routines. By establishing daily routines for homework completion, you will not only make homework go more smoothly, but you will also be fostering a sense of order your child can apply to later life, including college and work.

Step 1. Find a location in the house where homework will be done. The right location will depend on your child and the culture of your family. Some children do best at a desk in their bedroom. It is a quiet location, away from the hubbub of family noise. Other children become too distracted by the things they keep in their bedroom and do better at a place removed from those distractions, like the dining room table. Some children need to work by themselves. Others need to have parents nearby to help keep them on task and to answer questions when problems arise. Ask your child where the best place is to work. Both you and your child need to discuss pros and cons of different settings to arrive at a mutually agreed upon location.

Step 2. Set up a homework center. Once you and your child have identified a location, fix it up as a home office/homework center. Make sure there is a clear workspace large enough to set out all the materials necessary for completing assignments. Outfit the homework center with the kinds of supplies your child is most likely to need, such as pencils, pens, colored markers, rulers, scissors, a dictionary and thesaurus, graph paper, construction paper, glue and cellophane tape, lined paper, a calculator, spell checker, and, depending on the age and needs of your child, a computer or laptop. If the homework center is a place that will be used for other things (such as the dining room table), then your child can keep the supplies in a portable crate or bin. If possible, the homework center should include a bulletin board that can hold a monthly calendar on which your child can keep track of longterm assignments. Allowing children some leeway in decorating the homework center can help them feel at home there, but you should be careful that it does not become too cluttered with distracting materials.

Step 3. Establish a homework time. Your child should get in the habit of doing homework at the same time every day. The time may vary depending on the individual child. Some children need a break right after school to get some exercise and have a snack. Others need to start homework while they are still in a school mode (i.e., right after school when there is still some momentum left from getting through the day). In general, it may be best to get homework done either before dinner or as early in the evening as the child can tolerate. The later it gets, the more tired the child becomes and the more slowly the homework gets done.

Step 4. Establish a daily homework schedule. In general, at least into middle school, the homework session should begin with your sitting down with your child and drawing up a homework schedule. You should review all the assignments and make sure your child understands them and has all the necessary materials. Ask your child to estimate how long it will take to complete each assignment. Then ask when each assignment will get started. If your child needs help with any assignment , then this should be determined at the beginning so that the start times can take into account parent availability. A Daily Homework Planner is included at the end of this handout and contains a place for identifying when breaks may be taken and what rewards may be earned.

Incentive Systems

Many children who are not motivated by the enjoyment of doing homework are motivated by the high grade they hope to earn as a result of doing a quality job. Thus, the grade is an incentive, motivating the child to do homework with care and in a timely manner. For children who are not motivated by grades, parents will need to look for other rewards to help them get through their nightly chores. Incentive systems fall into two categories: simple and elaborate.

Simple incentive systems. The simplest incentive system is reminding the child of a fun activity to do when homework is done. It may be a favorite television show, a chance to spend some time with a video or computer game, talking on the telephone or instant messaging, or playing a game with a parent. This system of withholding fun things until the drudgery is over is sometimes called Grandma’s Law because grandmothers often use it quite effectively (“First take out the trash, then you can have chocolate chip cookies.”). Having something to look forward to can be a powerful incentive to get the hard work done. When parents remind children of this as they sit down at their desks they may be able to spark the engine that drives the child to stick with the work until it is done.

Elaborate incentive systems. These involve more planning and more work on the part of parents but in some cases are necessary to address more significant homework problems. More complex incentives systems might include a structure for earning points that could be used to “purchase” privileges or rewards or a system that provides greater reward for accomplishing more difficult homework tasks. These systems work best when parents and children together develop them. Giving children input gives them a sense of control and ownership, making the system more likely to succeed. We have found that children are generally realistic in setting goals and deciding on rewards and penalties when they are involved in the decision-making process.

Building in breaks. These are good for the child who cannot quite make it to the end without a small reward en route. When creating the daily homework schedule, it may be useful with these children to identify when they will take their breaks. Some children prefer to take breaks at specific time intervals (every 15 minutes), while others do better when the breaks occur after they finish an activity. If you use this approach, you should discuss with your child how long the breaks will last and what will be done during the breaks (get a snack, call a friend, play one level on a video game). The Daily Homework Planner includes sections where breaks and end-of-homework rewards can be identified.

Building in choice. This can be an effective strategy for parents to use with children who resist homework. Choice can be incorporated into both the order in which the child agrees to complete assignments and the schedule they will follow to get the work done. Building in choice not only helps motivate children but can also reduce power struggles between parents and children.

Developing Incentive Systems

Step 1. Describe the problem behaviors. Parents and children decide which behaviors are causing problems at homework time. For some children putting homework off to the last minute is the problem; for others, it is forgetting materials or neglecting to write down assignments. Still others rush through their work and make careless mistakes, while others dawdle over assignments, taking hours to complete what should take only a few minutes. It is important to be as specific as possible when describing the problem behaviors. The problem behavior should be described as behaviors that can be seen or heard; for instance, complains about h omework or rushes through homework, making many mistakes are better descriptors than has a bad attitude or is lazy.

Step 2. Set a goal. Usually the goal relates directly to the problem behavior. For instance, if not writing down assignments is the problem, the goal might be: “Joe will write down his assignments in his assignment book for every class.”

Step 3. Decide on possible rewards and penalties. Homework incentive systems work best when children have a menu of rewards to choose from, since no single reward will be attractive for long. We recommend a point system in which points can be earned for the goal behaviors and traded in for the reward the child wants to earn. The bigger the reward, the more points the child will need to earn it. The menu should include both larger, more expensive rewards that may take a week or a month to earn and smaller, inexpensive rewards that can be earned daily. It may also be necessary to build penalties into the system. This is usually the loss of a privilege (such as the chance to watch a favorite TV show or the chance to talk on the telephone to a friend).

Once the system is up and running, and if you find your child is earning more penalties than rewards, then the program needs to be revised so that your child can be more successful. Usually when this kind of system fails, we think of it as a design failure rather than the failure of the child to respond to rewards. It may be a good idea if you are having difficulty designing a system that works to consult a specialist, such as a school psychologist or counselor, for assistance.

Step 4. Write a homework contract. The contract should say exactly what the child agrees to do and exactly what the parents’ roles and responsibilities will be. When the contract is in place, it should reduce some of the tension parents and kids often experience around homework. For instance, if part of the contract is that the child will earn a point for not complaining about homework, then if the child does complain, this should not be cause for a battle between parent and child: the child simply does not earn that point. Parents should also be sure to praise their children for following the contract. It will be important for parents to agree to a contract they can live with; that is, avoiding penalties they are either unable or unwilling to impose (e.g., if both parents work and are not at home, they cannot monitor whether a child is beginning homework right after school, so an alternative contract may need to be written).

We have found that it is a rare incentive system that works the first time. Parents should expect to try it out and redesign it to work the kinks out. Eventually, once the child is used to doing the behaviors specified in the contract, the contract can be rewritten to work on another problem behavior. Your child over time may be willing to drop the use of an incentive system altogether. This is often a long-term goal, however, and you should be ready to write a new contract if your child slips back to bad habits once a system is dropped.

Click here to download the homework planner and incentive sheet .

Frequently Asked Questions

To help homework go more smoothly, e stablish a routine that includes a time and place where it will be done, a planner that lists each assignment, scheduled breaks when some of the work is done, and a reward system for kids who are not motivated by good grades alone.

Set a good homework routine following these steps: Find a location in the house where homework will be done. Set up a homework center stocked with needed materials . Establish a homework time. Use a daily homework planner so that your child has everything in writing.

One tool that can make homework go more smoothly i s a Daily Homework Planner , which lists each assignment, how long it should take to complete, and what rewards may be earned for completing each assignment.

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Resources to Help Your Kids Thrive

11 Best Homework Tips for Parents

As a parent, your involvement in your child's homework can significantly impact their academic success. A well-structured homework routine not only reinforces classroom learning but also helps build essential life skills such as responsibility and time management. However, striking the right balance is crucial; parents should guide and support their children without taking over the tasks. This approach fosters independence and confidence in their abilities.

According to recent statistics, U.S. parents spend about 6.2 hours a week helping their kids with homework. This substantial investment of time underscores parents' critical role in their children's educational journey. Providing the right support, children develop strong study habits and a positive attitude toward learning, setting them up for long-term success.

Establish a Routine

Creating a consistent homework schedule is essential for your child's academic success. Setting a specific time each day for homework helps establish a routine that can make the process smoother and more predictable. For example, having your child start their homework immediately after a healthy snack and some downtime post-school can be effective. Alternatively, you might prefer a routine where homework begins right after dinner, ensuring your child is well-rested and ready to focus.

Regular study times help children understand that homework is a priority and not something to be done haphazardly. This consistency can reduce procrastination, making it easier for your child to manage their workload and avoid last-minute stress. Moreover, a well-structured routine fosters discipline and time management skills, essential traits that will benefit them throughout their educational journey and beyond. Establishing this habit early on sets the stage for a successful academic experience.

Create a Conducive Environment

Creating a conducive environment for homework is crucial for helping kids stay focused and productive. Effective homework practices begin with setting up a quiet, distraction-free workspace. This could be a dedicated desk in their bedroom, a corner of the living room, or a cozy nook in the home office. The key is to ensure the area is free from common distractions like TV, loud noises, or frequent foot traffic.

Ideal homework spaces should be well-lit and equipped with all necessary supplies, such as pencils, paper, a computer, and any other materials your child regularly uses. Keeping these items within reach minimizes interruptions and helps maintain a smooth workflow. Organization plays a vital role in maintaining focus; a clutter-free workspace can significantly enhance concentration and efficiency. By creating a well-organized and quiet study area, you provide your kids with a structured environment that supports their learning and helps them develop effective study habits.

Encourage Organization

Among homework tips for parents is teaching your child to stay organized. You can make a significant impact by introducing tools such as planners, calendars, and to-do lists. These tools help children learn to prioritize their assignments, track deadlines, and break down larger projects into smaller, manageable tasks. For example, using a weekly planner can help them allocate time for each subject, ensuring a balanced approach to their workload.

Digital tools like Trello or Notion can also be incredibly useful. These platforms allow kids to create project boards for each subject, with cards for individual assignments, due dates, and priority levels. This visual method helps them see what needs to be done and plan accordingly.

Structured planning benefits students by reducing stress and increasing productivity. When children know exactly what tasks they need to complete and when they are less likely to feel overwhelmed and more likely to approach their homework with confidence and efficiency. Encouraging these organizational habits early on can set the stage for academic success and lifelong time management skills.

Be Available for Guidance

It's important to balance offering support and allowing kids to handle their homework independently. Being available for guidance means being there to answer questions and provide encouragement but not doing the work for them. This approach helps children develop critical problem-solving skills and fosters a sense of independence.

According to a study in The Elementary School Journal, there are three main types of dependent help-giving: "parent as a student," "parent as partner," and "parent as reminder." In the "parent as a student" model, the parent's involvement is so high that the child does very little independently. The "parent as partner" model involves more collaboration, but the child still relies heavily on the parent. The "parent as reminder" model, the least dependent form, involves parents prompting and reminding, allowing more room for the child’s independent work. While these types of help can be necessary, they can also hinder the development of self-efficacy and independence.

Additionally, consider leveraging peer-to-peer learning platforms like Tutorpeers. Such platforms connect students with their peers who can offer assistance and explain concepts in a relatable manner. This support can be incredibly beneficial, providing kids with the help they need while promoting collaborative learning. You help your child build the skills necessary for academic success by encouraging independence and problem-solving.

Break Tasks into Smaller Chunks

Tackling large assignments can often feel overwhelming for kids, making it crucial to break tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks. This approach helps them learn to handle big projects without feeling daunted, improving their productivity and reducing stress.

For instance, if your child has to write a lengthy essay, guide them to break it down into smaller steps: brainstorming ideas, creating an outline, writing a draft for each section, and then revising the complete essay. Similarly, for a large science project, they can start with research, then move on to drafting the report, creating visual aids, and finally rehearsing their presentation.

Dividing tasks into smaller parts makes the overall workload seem less intimidating and helps children stay focused on completing each step. This method not only boosts their confidence but also enhances their time management skills, as they learn to allocate appropriate time for each segment. By teaching your child to break down their tasks, you are equipping them with valuable homework strategies for managing their work effectively and efficiently.

Teach Time Management Skills

Effective time management is a crucial skill that can significantly affect how well kids handle their homework. Parents can help by teaching their children to set realistic goals and deadlines for each assignment. This practice encourages them to manage their time wisely and reduces the likelihood of procrastination.

One useful technique is the Pomodoro Technique , which involves working in focused intervals (typically 25 minutes) followed by a short break. This method helps maintain concentration and productivity, making it easier for kids to complete their homework efficiently. For example, after 25 minutes of focused study, your child can take a 5-minute break to relax and recharge before starting the next session.

A study by Deslandes, Rollande & Rousseau, Michel. (2023). Long-term students’ management strategies and parental involvement in homework at the elementary level at International Journal about Parents in Education found that as children progress from grade 4 to grade 6, they tend to take fewer initiatives to manage their homework time and emotions. However, parental involvement can significantly help in fostering these management strategies, particularly for monitoring motivation and managing time effectively. By maintaining a supportive presence, parents can guide their children to develop strong time management skills that will benefit them throughout their academic journey and beyond.

Praise Effort, Not Just Results

Recognizing and praising your child's effort rather than just their results is essential for building confidence and motivation. Good parenting is crucial in helping kids understand that hard work and persistence are just as important as achieving high grades. This approach fosters a growth mindset, encouraging children to view challenges as opportunities to learn and grow.

For example, if your child has been diligently working on a challenging math problem, praise their perseverance and dedication, regardless of whether they got the right answer. You could say, "I'm proud of how hard you worked on that problem. Your effort is really impressive!" This type of encouragement emphasizes the value of effort and resilience.

A study by Zhang, Zengxia. (2024). Parent’s Involvement in Homework: The Effects of Parental Reactions to Pupils’ Emotions on Academic Performance at Journal of Education, Humanities and Social Sciences further emphasizes the importance of quality parental involvement. It found that while parents' support positively impacts children's homework completion and emotional well-being, the focus should be on providing emotional comfort and encouragement rather than solely aiming for grade improvement. Parents who recognize and address their children's negative emotions related to homework, such as frustration or fear, help build a supportive environment that enhances their children's learning experiences.

Focusing on progress and hard work can help kids develop a positive attitude toward learning. This boosts their confidence and motivates them to keep trying, even during difficult tasks. Celebrating small victories and improvements reinforces the idea that learning is a journey, and every step forward is an achievement worth acknowledging.

Communicate with Teachers

Maintaining open lines of communication with your child's teachers is essential for supporting their homework and learning journey. By staying informed about assignments and your child's progress, you can better understand their strengths and areas where they may need extra help.

Regular check-ins with teachers, whether through emails, phone calls, or parent-teacher conferences, allow you to stay updated on upcoming projects and tests. These interactions also provide opportunities to discuss your child's performance and any challenges they may be facing. For instance, scheduling a monthly meeting with the teacher can help you keep track of your child's academic progress and address any concerns promptly.

Collaborating with teachers on homework strategies for improvement ensures that you are aligned in your efforts to support your child's education. Teachers can offer valuable insights and suggestions tailored to your child's needs, helping you create a more effective homework routine at home. By working together, you can foster a supportive learning environment that encourages your child to thrive academically.

Model Good Habits

As parents, demonstrating effective study and work habits can significantly influence your child's approach to homework and learning. By practicing good habits yourself, you set a powerful example that can inspire your child to adopt similar practices.

Show your child how you manage your time, organize tasks, and stay focused on your goals. For instance, let them see you working on a project, reading a book, or planning your week. This visibility helps them understand the importance of dedication and perseverance. Explain your processes and why they are effective, making it clear that these habits contribute to your success.

Leading by example encourages children to develop their own effective study routines and organizational skills. When they see you prioritizing your work and managing your time well, they are more likely to emulate these behaviors. By modeling good habits, you provide a practical framework that can help your child succeed academically and in other areas of life, reinforcing the idea that disciplined practices lead to positive outcomes.

Encourage Reading

Encouraging kids to develop strong reading habits is essential for their overall learning and academic success. Reading regularly not only enhances vocabulary and comprehension skills but also fosters critical thinking and creativity. Parents can play a pivotal role in instilling a love for reading by providing a variety of engaging materials.

Introduce your child to different genres and formats, such as e-books, audiobooks, blogs, and educational websites. This variety keeps reading interesting and accessible, catering to their interests and preferences. For instance, if your child enjoys technology, they might be more inclined to read e-books or educational blogs on their tablet or computer.

The benefits of reading extend beyond academic performance. It helps kids learn to focus, improves their writing skills, and expands their knowledge of the world. By making reading a regular and enjoyable part of your child's routine, you help them build a lifelong habit that supports continuous learning and personal growth.

Monitor Screen Time

In today's digital age, it's crucial for parents to monitor their kids' screen time to ensure a healthy balance between electronic device usage and homework. Setting clear boundaries for when and how long your child can use devices helps prevent distractions and promotes a more focused approach to their studies.

Establish rules such as no screen time during homework hours, except for educational purposes. Encourage your child to engage in other creative activities like reading, drawing, playing board games, or doing puzzles. These activities not only provide a break from screens but also stimulate the mind in different, beneficial ways.

Balancing screen time with homework and other activities teaches kids to manage their time effectively. It helps them develop a routine that includes productive study periods and enriching off-screen experiences. By guiding your child to use their time wisely, you foster habits that contribute to their overall well-being and academic success.

Parental involvement in homework is crucial for a child's academic success. By applying these homework tips for parents, you can provide the support and guidance your children need while fostering independence and strong study habits. Establishing routines, creating a conducive environment, and teaching time management are just a few ways to make a positive impact.

Encourage your child to stay organized, praise their efforts, and communicate openly with their teachers. Additionally, leveraging peer-to-peer learning platforms like Tutorpeers can offer valuable support and resources, enhancing your child's learning experience.

By actively participating in your child's education and applying these practical tips, you can help them develop the skills and confidence needed to excel academically. Remember, your involvement not only boosts their performance but also instills a lifelong love for learning, setting them up for continued success.

Q: Is it OK for parents to help with homework? A: Yes, it is OK for parents to help with homework, but it's essential to balance providing support and fostering independence. Be available for guidance and answer questions, but avoid giving direct answers or doing the work for them. Instead, guide them toward finding solutions and encourage them to develop problem-solving skills.

Q: Should I check my child's homework? A: Checking your child's homework can help identify areas where they may need extra support or encouragement. However, avoid being overly intrusive or controlling. Focus on providing constructive feedback and praising their efforts and improvements rather than just pointing out mistakes.

Q: Can I refuse homework for my child? A: As a parent, you can discuss concerns about homework with your child's teacher or school administration, but outright homework refusal may not be advisable. Homework is typically assigned to reinforce learning and help students develop essential skills. Addressing concerns through open communication with the school and working together to find solutions is a more practical approach.

Q: What percent of parents are helping with homework? A: The percentage of parents who help with homework varies, but studies have shown that many parents are involved in their child's homework to some extent. Parental involvement can positively impact a child's academic performance, but it's essential to provide guidance and encouragement without hindering their independence and problem-solving abilities.

Q: How to motivate kids to do homework? A: To motivate kids to do homework, try establishing a consistent routine, creating a conducive environment, breaking tasks into smaller chunks, teaching time management skills, and praising effort rather than just results. Involving your child in setting goals and acknowledging their achievements can also encourage them to stay motivated and engaged in their learning process.

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