“Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration. As a result, a genius is often a talented person who has simply done all of his homework.” - Thomas A. Edison
Key Concepts:
- Homework is one of the most hotly debated topics of the past century! Some states even banned homework at points in history (lookin’ at you, California!).
- Studies have shown that the amount of homework a child is given is NOT correlated to an improved education experience.
- Homework anxiety is common. We see this in many forms - including push back from our children. Identifying the root cause(s) of this anxiety is important. Common causes include a desire to achieve perfectionism, trouble self-regulating, or simply TOO much homework being assigned.
What to Try:
- Decide (with your child) on a homework location for them. Make sure the location is conducive to learning (has limited distractions), and has the supplies necessary. Stay close by, but give your child space to work on their own.
- Offer your child specific praise when you see them practicing a good routine and study habit. Try “I noticed you came home, got a snack, and started your homework! You really know your routine” instead of “you're so good at homework!” (which isn’t specific).
- Ask your child to teach YOU what they know. Playing the teacher will help them to solidify their understanding in a new way.
- Use homework to help you assess what your child is learning at school. Stay in touch with your child’s teacher and communicate around any issues, barriers or a mismatch between your child’s understanding and the concept.
- Research tells us that there is tremendous benefit around exercise and concentration.
- Before sitting down for homework, it’s a good idea to give your child a chance to run it out.
- Work to build your child’s internal motivation by avoiding incentives. If we offer incentives early on in the homework experience, we might reduce that intrinsic motivation we’re looking for.