7 Effective Homework Strategies For Elementary Students

While educational research is constantly pushing teachers to adjust their homework policies and amounts, home tasks are still a daily or weekly part of your student’s school life. As the homework load tends to increase with each grade, it is important to set him or her up with effective strategies for conquering home assignments as early as possible. Use these 7 effective homework strategies to help your elementary student complete home tasks with as little additional stress as possible.

1. 1. Pick a good time to do homework.

Just as it is helpful for the body to rest and rise at the same time each day, it is also beneficial for the child to complete home assignments at the same time daily. Help your student make a daily schedule for their daily events after school to determine the best time for him or her to complete their home tasks.

2. 2. Find a good place to study.

Before you begin, collect all your books, pencils, study materials, and a snack so you do not have to stop for anything. Find a place where it is quiet to study and complete homework.

3. 3. Start with the harder tasks; finish with the easy work.

Each day your student will probably have an idea which home assignments will take the most time to complete. These assignments should be completed first to ensure they are not put off until the last minute or rushed through.

4. 4. Ask for help when needed.

If your child appears to be struggling with their homework, encourage them to ask for help when they need it. However, encourage your child to only ask for help if they really need it, and always avoid answering the question for them.

5. 5. Work on long-term projects daily.

Many parents grow frustrated with long-term projects simply because they learn about them the day before they are due. Avoid this scenario in your home by being proactive with your student, knowing what assignments they have and when they are due so you can ensure your child works on them daily.

6. 6. Employ a study buddy.

If your child has a friend who is also in his or her class, ask your student if they would like to have the other student over to work on schoolwork. As long as you are close by to ensure the two are working instead of playing, study buddies and study groups can be highly effective.

7. 7. Employ a reward.

Some children are self-motivated to complete homework, but others are not. Sometimes a reward may be necessary, and there is nothing wrong with that. However, keep rewards small. For example, finishing a project a day early may mean a trip for ice cream.