Tips to make homework time easier on your child and you

Homework is one of the most important parts of school. It gives children a chance to review and understand classroom lessons, as well as learn organization, responsibility and self-discipline. It also encourages creativity.

For parents, homework can be a window into their child’s education — and one of the best ways for parents to support that education.

Here are four suggestions to help make homework less stressful for your child — and for you, too.

Let your child know you think homework is important

Make homework time a priority. It shouldn’t be less important than sports, music lessons or play dates. If something has to be missed, it should never be homework.

Create a space for homework that is conducive to learning: well-lit, well-supplied and with enough room to spread out.

Work with your child’s temperament

Determine your child’s energy rhythms. Do they need a break after school, or do they lose steam if they don’t get work done right away?

Know your child’s attention span, too. Some kids need to take breaks in order to get their work done.

If your child is easily distracted by activity around them, a quiet separate homework spot is best. If they find their own distractions, supervised at the kitchen table is better.

Talk to the teacher

Keep in regular contact with the teacher about your child’s progress and work habits. Make sure you understand both the teacher’s and the school’s homework policies, and let the teacher know if your child had trouble with a particular assignment. Don’t complain about the teacher or assignment in front of your child. If you have a concern, talk to the teacher directly.

If allowed, volunteer in the classroom. Not only can this help the teacher, but it helps you understand your child’s educational experience and gives the homework some context.

If things aren’t getting better, even with regular communication with the teacher, give your pediatrician a call.

Supervise and support, but no more than that

Be available while your child is doing homework, but don’t hover. If they do have questions, try to help them get to the answer without supplying it yourself.

If your child has a larger project due, such as a written report or a diorama, help them think about the project’s timeline. Check in regularly on their progress.

Look over the homework when they’re finished to make sure it’s complete, and give praise for a good job. It’s another way of showing how you value their effort — and their education.

Claire McCarthy is an assistant professor in pediatrics at Harvard Medical School and an attending physician at Boston Children’s Hospital.

Tips to manage virtual learning

Here are tips from experts to ensure children get the most out of school even though they’re at home.