Tips for creating a healthy homework routine

Every evening in homes in Winter Park — and across America — students are working on their homework. For many families this can be a frustrating battle of wills. Regardless of where you fall in the current debate over the merits and/or amount of homework assigned, on a Tuesday night, the only concern most of us have is how to get it done before bedtime and with minimal arguing.

As a principal, I often talk to students and families about ways to create a successful homework environment and routine. As parents, it is important we remember that the goal of homework is to either provide students an opportunity to practice new skills and/or content individually, as a basis to determine understanding, or as a preparation for tomorrow’s lesson. If we keep this in mind, it helps us remember why they are working on homework and understand our role when working with our kids.

Consistent routines and expectations help teach kids the best ways to organize themselves and complete assignments in a timely manner. Here are a few ideas I often share with families at Trinity Prep that may help you create your own homework routine in your house.

1. Set expectations for homework completion. During most school days, students have some time to complete at least one class worth of homework (study hall, free periods, lunch, breaks, or time between the end of school and after school activities). If your students do this, they will have that much less homework when they arrive home.

2. Maintain a consistent homework area. I encourage parents to not allow students to go to their room to complete homework. In many instances, homework that should take 15 to 20 minutes ends up taking two hours because they are on their phone or social media instead of focusing on the assignment. If they work in a common family area you are able to casually monitor their progress.

3. Build in time for breaks. For many students the idea of starting homework can feel monumental. They need help breaking it down into manageable chunks. If they know they are going to work for 20 minutes and then get a 10 to 15 minute break to contact a friend, use social media, or relax, it is easier for them to get started.

4. Stay organized and plan ahead. I tell my students to avoid the yo-yo effect: a lot of homework one night and nothing the next. If students plan to work on each subject every night, they are better able to break up assignments or test preparation and have a more predictable routine. Help your students plan their week of homework, including planning for nights with games or events that take away from homework time, which is also an important life skill for them to develop.

I hope these suggestions are helpful for creating a homework routine in your house. However, they can’t replace taking time to talk to our own children about what works for them, encouraging them when they struggle, and reminding them that this is important. Let them know you believe they can do it!