Homework Routines
As the kids get older, the homework gets harder.
Pair that with more activities as they grow up and home routines are more important than ever to stay on it.
A lot has changed in our house this school year, since our kindergartener and second grader have way more homework than they had last year. In addition, more opportunities have opened up again post pandemic so they are also busier with activities and all of this has significantly affected our family’s home life and schedule.
Getting to homework after school, has become a new priority since it can take a bit for both of them to get it done. And with so many distractions, things to sign, multiple subjects to look over, math taking me a lot longer to figure out (especially since we have to watch the YouTube videos the teacher sends us so we don’t undo their learning and teach it to them the way we learned it), I am finding I need to set up a homework routine for all of us to get into the flow of things.
So here’s a short list of what we have found works for us, that we hope can work for you too! And I am happy to hear any other suggestions you have to share!
Have a designated place where they leave their backpacks or unpack their folders.
Have a second pencil box of supplies for home just like what they use at school for each kid.
Have them work on a clear table or desk to do their writing properly and neatly.
Have a designated area where they can lay out the folders they need to have signed showing their completed work.
Have a designated reading area or supply of books (see my blog about library visits)
Make sure computers are readily charged so they’re ready for their online work.
Have comfy headphones to block out noise when doing their online work.
Have some munchie motivation if needed. We try to have healthy snack ready for them first or as a treat when they finish some of their work for a quick break. (To tell the truth, I put in front of my son the Token of Appreciation chocolate when I really need him to get to it!) ;)
Happy homework everyone!
erin’s tip
Keeping consistent routines helps everyone know what to expect. Even if you’re off some days, that’s better than being off every day!