How to Create a Positive Homework Environment: 3 Expert Insights
In the quest to foster productivity during homework time, we sought expert advice from an educational blogger and a teacher. They shared three key strategies, ranging from modeling academic behaviors for children to establishing a designated workspace. Dive into their insights to create a conducive environment for your child’s learning at home.
- Model Academic Behaviors for Children
- Lead by Example During Homework Time
- Establish a Designated Workspace
Model Academic Behaviors for Children
Parents often ask this question, and I’ve seen the most success with families who engage in activities together.
Children learn best from the modeling of academic behaviors at home. I suggest setting a time in the afternoon or early evening when everyone engages in reading or learning activities together. If you foster these behaviors when children are young, they will, in time, know how to set aside time for their work by themselves.
Older children also need to see active participation from their adults. Even if you are not actively helping children with their homework, parents can sit nearby, reading or working on completing non-stressful tasks.
Pay attention to signs of frustration or fatigue. That could mean it’s time to stop or take a break. Children should understand that work is sometimes difficult, and taking breaks gives the brain time to rest and think of new ways to approach a problem.
Together, you can teach your children how to have a healthy approach to homework!
Valerie De La Rosa, Educational Blogger and English Department Chair, The Weary Educator
Lead by Example During Homework Time
As an educator, a single mother of two young children, and working remotely on a schedule I fit around my children, I often have to multitask!
I like to lead by example during homework time. I find that if we all sit around the kitchen table to do our homework and work at the same time, it creates a productive and positive environment. We always seem to get more work done!
By demonstrating a strong work ethic, effective time management, a positive attitude, and resilience, I think it encouraged them to adopt these valuable qualities, too.
I can be there to help them when they need it, and they see that everyone has to work hard.
Katharine Gallagher
Professional Growth Specialist- Education, Career, Recruitment, Productivity, Business, katharinegallagher.com
Establish a Designated Workspace
In my experience, a designated workspace that is tailored to an individual’s needs minimizes potential distractions and offers the essential tools at arm’s length, works wonders. Beyond its functional benefits, having a consistent place for such activities creates a psychological association: entering this space signals the mind to prepare for concentrated effort.
Over time, the boundary it sets between work and relaxation, paired with the established routine it encourages, plays a pivotal role in enhancing productivity. Through the amalgamation of both its practical and mental advantages, a designated workspace becomes an invaluable asset for maximizing efficiency.
Dylan Callens
Teacher and Blogger, The Teachers’ Blog
Submit Your Answer
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