homework about routines

6 ways to establish a productive homework routine

Assistant Professor of College Learning Strategies and Instruction, Syracuse University

Disclosure statement

Janine L. Nieroda-Madden does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

View all partners

Homework. Whether you’re a fifth-grader or a freshman in college, the mere thought of homework can be overwhelming. And actually doing homework can be quite difficult. But homework doesn’t have to be something a student dreads.

As a former high school English teacher and researcher who specializes in what it takes to make it through college – and a co-author of a forthcoming revised edition of a book about academic success – I’ve studied homework since 2010. Here are six ways I believe homework can be made more manageable and valuable, whether you’re in elementary school, high school or graduate school.

1. Set priorities

Establish a list of priorities based on the class syllabus or assignment list. This can be helpful for tackling difficult tasks, creating motivation and activating your sense of control and independence when it comes to learning. The priority list helps maintain goals and gives you a sense satisfaction to cross things off the list as they are completed.

2. Tackle difficult tasks first

Start with your most difficult assignments first in order to make the most of your energy level and to focus at the beginning of a work session. You can attend to the easier or less time-consuming assignments at the end of a work session.

3. Break tasks down to smaller steps

You may not know how to start a major task, which could trigger procrastination or feelings of defeat. To guard against this, break major tasks into three or four smaller steps. Within one homework session, you can feel a greater sense of accomplishment by completing each small step toward the larger whole. In some cases, you might be able to spread these tasks over the course of a week.

4. Create evidence of learning

You will get more out of the time you spend reading, reviewing notes or otherwise “studying” if you create something in the process. For example, creating flash cards, a graphic organizer, chart, or notes with bullet points can help you become an active learner rather than a passive one. Organize the tools you create with the homework assignment by date and topic so that you can review those items to prepare for quizzes, tests or projects.

5. Build a network of support

If certain homework problems could not be solved and you’re stuck in a rut, figure out what’s confusing you and write or record your thoughts. Jot questions down and be as specific as possible in order to seek out additional support from teachers or tutors. The more you can identify sources of confusion, the more you can proactively reach out to your support network – teachers, tutors and others – in order to get additional help.

6. Revisit goals and set new ones

At the start of each homework session, establish goals for completion of your tasks or assignments. Revisit the goals at the end of the session and acknowledge a sense of completion. This goal-setting process builds confidence over time and helps you realize their potential even when faced with difficulties. A productive homework routine will help you realize that learning is an ongoing journey. The journey may be difficult but getting organized will make it as stress-free as possible.

[ Like what you’ve read? Want more? Sign up for The Conversation’s daily newsletter . ]

• US higher education
• Good grades
• K-12 education

Lecturer in Indigenous Health (Identified)

Social Media Producer

Lecturer in Physiotherapy

PhD Scholarship

Senior Lecturer, HRM or People Analytics

• Trying to Conceive
• Signs & Symptoms
• Pregnancy Tests
• Fertility Testing
• Fertility Treatment
• Weeks & Trimesters
• Staying Healthy
• Preparing for Baby
• Complications & Concerns
• Pregnancy Loss
• Breastfeeding
• School-Aged Kids
• Raising Kids
• Personal Stories
• Everyday Wellness
• Safety & First Aid
• Immunizations
• Food & Nutrition
• Active Play
• Pregnancy Products
• Nursery & Sleep Products
• Nursing & Feeding Products
• Clothing & Accessories
• Toys & Gifts
• Ovulation Calculator
• Pregnancy Due Date Calculator
• How to Talk About Postpartum Depression
• Editorial Process
• Meet Our Review Board

How to Make a Better Homework Schedule for Your Family

Verywell / Zackary Angeline

Why Homework Schedules Are Effective

• Developing a Schedule

Other Considerations

Do you frequently have homework struggles with your child or teen? Or, does your student procrastinate doing their work? Maybe they even fail to turn in assignments. If any of these scenarios resonate with you, a better homework schedule may help.

A regular homework schedule establishes predictable times when homework is to be completed. Once the homework schedule has been in place for a few weeks, you may even find your child will begin doing their homework without needing to be reminded—although you may still need to monitor their work progress.

If you're struggling with homework completion in your household, or if you're having daily battles about allotting the appropriate amount of time to homework, you're not alone. That's why educators recommend developing a homework schedule—with input from your kids.

Once you set a homework schedule, then there are no questions about when the work will be done. It also communicates clear expectations; having a homework schedule helps kids understand what is required of them. And following the schedule encourages them to develop a good work ethic.

Schedules also help prevent procrastination and instill good habits like completing work on time. Homework routines also improve study skills and encourage kids to plan ahead.

Other benefits include developing your child's work ethic and organizational abilities. By helping your child complete their work at regular intervals, you are modeling how to manage time and projects in the future. When you send them off to college , they will know how to pace their work so they can avoid all-nighters at the end of the semester.

How to Develop a Homework Schedule

To develop a homework schedule, start by talking with your kids. Get their input on how they would like to manage their time and incorporate their homework into their daily routine. A successful homework schedule allows kids to finish their work and also have some free time.

Give Kids an Option

If you ask kids when they want to do their homework, their first answer might be "Never" or "Later." But if you dig a little deeper, your child may tell you what matters to them as they plan their schedule. This information will help you avoid scheduling homework during their favorite television program or when they usually get online to play games with friends.

When you include your child in the decision-making process, you also will get more buy-in from them because they know that their concerns were heard. You don't have to give them their way, but at least considering what they have to say will let them feel included. After all, this homework schedule is about them completing their homework.

Allow for Free Time

Some kids can step through the front door and buckle down on their homework right away. When this happens, they reap the reward of getting their work done early and having the rest of the evening to do what they want. But most kids need to eat and decompress a bit before tackling their assignments.

As you develop your homework schedule, keep in mind your child has already spent at least six hours in class. And this time doesn't include getting to and from school or participation in extracurricular programs . Allow kids some free time before beginning their homework if that's what they need to unwind.

Establish a Timeline

Generally, you can expect about 10 minutes of homework per grade level of school. This means that a third-grade student will need about 30 minutes to complete homework. However, the amount of time needed can vary dramatically between students, teachers, and schools.

Find out how much time your child's teacher expects homework to take each evening. If your child takes a lot of time to complete their work or struggles with homework , talk with the teacher. Your child may need extra instruction on a task or tutoring assistance—or fewer homework assignments.

Pick a Homework Spot

Designate a comfortable and efficient spot for your kids to do their homework. This workspace should be well-lit, stocked with supplies , and quiet. The workspace should allow you to provide some supervision. 

If you have multiple kids trying to complete their homework at one time, you may want to find a separate location for each child. Sometimes kids can complete their homework together at the kitchen table, but other times having siblings around can be distracting. Do what works best for your family.

Put It All Together

Now that you know what your child's needs and concerns are for finding a time to do homework, you need to come up with the actual plan. Creating a homework routine is really just one piece of creating a daily school year routine .

For the homework time itself, get it down on paper so you can see exactly what they will be doing and when they will be doing it. Do this for each day of the week if you have different activities on different weekdays. Students who are assigned larger projects will need to review their homework plans regularly to make adjustments as needed.

Expect your child to work consistently throughout the assigned time. Avoid having multiple homework sessions, such as one before dinner and a second one after dinner. Starting and stopping may mean children may spend more time getting into what they are doing than working continuously.

Be Consistent

Once you have decided on a time to do homework, stick to the plan! It usually takes about three weeks for most children to really get into the habit of their new schedule.

If your child or teen has difficulty maintaining concentration for the length of time that their homework should take, then you may want to carefully consider breaking up the work to take advantage of the time when your child can focus.

This added step is especially important for children and teens with depression or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They may benefit from multiple smaller work sessions and more frequent breaks.

Even though the idea behind creating a homework schedule is to get your child to work consistently and independently, you may need to look over their work when they are done. This is especially important for younger children.

Make sure they understand their assignments and that they completed a reasonable amount of work during the homework session. If you find your child is having trouble actually working during their homework time, troubleshoot to find out what might be the issue. Sometimes kids need extra help and other times they simply need more motivation to get their work done.

If you find that your child continues to struggle with homework even with a schedule in place, you might need to dig a little deeper. Consider discussing your child's issues with their teacher or pediatrician.

Sometimes kids are reluctant to complete their homework because of undiagnosed learning disabilities. It could be that your child struggles with reading comprehension or has a processing disorder. Or it could be that your child is struggling with a mental health issue like anxiety .

A Word From Verywell

Establishing a homework schedule allows children to build some important life skills that will help them as they navigate high school, college, and eventually the workforce. Practice is important when kids are learning new skills. So, having a nightly homework routine enhances your child's learning. Just be sure you aren't requiring homework time at the expense of being a kid. Having time to play is just as important to a child's development as learning new material.

National Institute of Mental Health. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder .

By Lisa Linnell-Olsen Lisa Linnell-Olsen has worked as a support staff educator, and is well-versed in issues of education policy and parenting issues.

Internet Explorer is no longer supported

Please upgrade to Microsoft Edge , Google Chrome , or Firefox .

Lo sentimos, la página que usted busca no se ha podido encontrar. Puede intentar su búsqueda de nuevo o visitar la lista de temas populares.

Get this as a PDF

Enter email to download and get news and resources in your inbox.

Share this on social

Strategies to make homework go more smoothly.

Routines and incentive systems to help kids succeed

Writer: Peg Dawson, EdD, NCSP

Clinical Expert: Peg Dawson, EdD, NCSP

Here is the best guide to helping kids do homework successfully that we’ve seen, published by the National Association of School Psychologists on their website, NASPonline.org . Our thanks to NASP for sharing it with us.

There are two key strategies parents can draw on to reduce homework hassles. The first is to establish clear routines around homework, including when and where homework gets done and setting up daily schedules for homework. The second is to build in rewards or incentives to use with children for whom “good grades” is not a sufficient reward for doing homework.

Homework Routines

Tasks are easiest to accomplish when tied to specific routines. By establishing daily routines for homework completion, you will not only make homework go more smoothly, but you will also be fostering a sense of order your child can apply to later life, including college and work.

Step 1. Find a location in the house where homework will be done. The right location will depend on your child and the culture of your family. Some children do best at a desk in their bedroom. It is a quiet location, away from the hubbub of family noise. Other children become too distracted by the things they keep in their bedroom and do better at a place removed from those distractions, like the dining room table. Some children need to work by themselves. Others need to have parents nearby to help keep them on task and to answer questions when problems arise. Ask your child where the best place is to work. Both you and your child need to discuss pros and cons of different settings to arrive at a mutually agreed upon location.

Step 2. Set up a homework center. Once you and your child have identified a location, fix it up as a home office/homework center. Make sure there is a clear workspace large enough to set out all the materials necessary for completing assignments. Outfit the homework center with the kinds of supplies your child is most likely to need, such as pencils, pens, colored markers, rulers, scissors, a dictionary and thesaurus, graph paper, construction paper, glue and cellophane tape, lined paper, a calculator, spell checker, and, depending on the age and needs of your child, a computer or laptop. If the homework center is a place that will be used for other things (such as the dining room table), then your child can keep the supplies in a portable crate or bin. If possible, the homework center should include a bulletin board that can hold a monthly calendar on which your child can keep track of longterm assignments. Allowing children some leeway in decorating the homework center can help them feel at home there, but you should be careful that it does not become too cluttered with distracting materials.

Step 3. Establish a homework time. Your child should get in the habit of doing homework at the same time every day. The time may vary depending on the individual child. Some children need a break right after school to get some exercise and have a snack. Others need to start homework while they are still in a school mode (i.e., right after school when there is still some momentum left from getting through the day). In general, it may be best to get homework done either before dinner or as early in the evening as the child can tolerate. The later it gets, the more tired the child becomes and the more slowly the homework gets done.

Step 4. Establish a daily homework schedule. In general, at least into middle school, the homework session should begin with your sitting down with your child and drawing up a homework schedule. You should review all the assignments and make sure your child understands them and has all the necessary materials. Ask your child to estimate how long it will take to complete each assignment. Then ask when each assignment will get started. If your child needs help with any assignment , then this should be determined at the beginning so that the start times can take into account parent availability. A Daily Homework Planner is included at the end of this handout and contains a place for identifying when breaks may be taken and what rewards may be earned.

Incentive Systems

Many children who are not motivated by the enjoyment of doing homework are motivated by the high grade they hope to earn as a result of doing a quality job. Thus, the grade is an incentive, motivating the child to do homework with care and in a timely manner. For children who are not motivated by grades, parents will need to look for other rewards to help them get through their nightly chores. Incentive systems fall into two categories: simple and elaborate.

Simple incentive systems. The simplest incentive system is reminding the child of a fun activity to do when homework is done. It may be a favorite television show, a chance to spend some time with a video or computer game, talking on the telephone or instant messaging, or playing a game with a parent. This system of withholding fun things until the drudgery is over is sometimes called Grandma’s Law because grandmothers often use it quite effectively (“First take out the trash, then you can have chocolate chip cookies.”). Having something to look forward to can be a powerful incentive to get the hard work done. When parents remind children of this as they sit down at their desks they may be able to spark the engine that drives the child to stick with the work until it is done.

Elaborate incentive systems. These involve more planning and more work on the part of parents but in some cases are necessary to address more significant homework problems. More complex incentives systems might include a structure for earning points that could be used to “purchase” privileges or rewards or a system that provides greater reward for accomplishing more difficult homework tasks. These systems work best when parents and children together develop them. Giving children input gives them a sense of control and ownership, making the system more likely to succeed. We have found that children are generally realistic in setting goals and deciding on rewards and penalties when they are involved in the decision-making process.

Building in breaks. These are good for the child who cannot quite make it to the end without a small reward en route. When creating the daily homework schedule, it may be useful with these children to identify when they will take their breaks. Some children prefer to take breaks at specific time intervals (every 15 minutes), while others do better when the breaks occur after they finish an activity. If you use this approach, you should discuss with your child how long the breaks will last and what will be done during the breaks (get a snack, call a friend, play one level on a video game). The Daily Homework Planner includes sections where breaks and end-of-homework rewards can be identified.

Building in choice. This can be an effective strategy for parents to use with children who resist homework. Choice can be incorporated into both the order in which the child agrees to complete assignments and the schedule they will follow to get the work done. Building in choice not only helps motivate children but can also reduce power struggles between parents and children.

Developing Incentive Systems

Step 1. Describe the problem behaviors. Parents and children decide which behaviors are causing problems at homework time. For some children putting homework off to the last minute is the problem; for others, it is forgetting materials or neglecting to write down assignments. Still others rush through their work and make careless mistakes, while others dawdle over assignments, taking hours to complete what should take only a few minutes. It is important to be as specific as possible when describing the problem behaviors. The problem behavior should be described as behaviors that can be seen or heard; for instance, complains about h omework or rushes through homework, making many mistakes are better descriptors than has a bad attitude or is lazy.

Step 2. Set a goal. Usually the goal relates directly to the problem behavior. For instance, if not writing down assignments is the problem, the goal might be: “Joe will write down his assignments in his assignment book for every class.”

Step 3. Decide on possible rewards and penalties. Homework incentive systems work best when children have a menu of rewards to choose from, since no single reward will be attractive for long. We recommend a point system in which points can be earned for the goal behaviors and traded in for the reward the child wants to earn. The bigger the reward, the more points the child will need to earn it. The menu should include both larger, more expensive rewards that may take a week or a month to earn and smaller, inexpensive rewards that can be earned daily. It may also be necessary to build penalties into the system. This is usually the loss of a privilege (such as the chance to watch a favorite TV show or the chance to talk on the telephone to a friend).

Once the system is up and running, and if you find your child is earning more penalties than rewards, then the program needs to be revised so that your child can be more successful. Usually when this kind of system fails, we think of it as a design failure rather than the failure of the child to respond to rewards. It may be a good idea if you are having difficulty designing a system that works to consult a specialist, such as a school psychologist or counselor, for assistance.

Step 4. Write a homework contract. The contract should say exactly what the child agrees to do and exactly what the parents’ roles and responsibilities will be. When the contract is in place, it should reduce some of the tension parents and kids often experience around homework. For instance, if part of the contract is that the child will earn a point for not complaining about homework, then if the child does complain, this should not be cause for a battle between parent and child: the child simply does not earn that point. Parents should also be sure to praise their children for following the contract. It will be important for parents to agree to a contract they can live with; that is, avoiding penalties they are either unable or unwilling to impose (e.g., if both parents work and are not at home, they cannot monitor whether a child is beginning homework right after school, so an alternative contract may need to be written).

We have found that it is a rare incentive system that works the first time. Parents should expect to try it out and redesign it to work the kinks out. Eventually, once the child is used to doing the behaviors specified in the contract, the contract can be rewritten to work on another problem behavior. Your child over time may be willing to drop the use of an incentive system altogether. This is often a long-term goal, however, and you should be ready to write a new contract if your child slips back to bad habits once a system is dropped.

Click here to download the homework planner and incentive sheet .

Frequently Asked Questions

To help homework go more smoothly, e stablish a routine that includes a time and place where it will be done, a planner that lists each assignment, scheduled breaks when some of the work is done, and a reward system for kids who are not motivated by good grades alone.  

Set a good homework routine following these steps: Find a location in the house where homework will be done. Set up a homework center stocked with needed materials . Establish a homework time. Use a daily homework planner so that your child has everything in writing.  

One tool that can make homework go more smoothly i s a Daily Homework Planner , which lists each assignment, how long it should take to complete, and what rewards may be earned for completing each assignment.    

Was this article helpful?

Explore popular topics, subscribe to our newsletters.

" * " indicates required fields

Get Resources to Help Your Kids Thrive

Sign up for updates, new articles, and tips from our clinical experts delivered to your inbox.

6 ways to establish a productive homework routine

by: Janine L. Nieroda-Madden | Updated: December 9, 2019

Print article

Homework. Whether you’re a fifth grader or a freshman in college, the mere thought of homework can be overwhelming. And actually doing homework can be quite difficult. But homework doesn’t have to be something your child dreads.

As a former high school English teacher and researcher who specializes in what it takes to make it through college — and a co-author of a forthcoming revised edition of a book about academic success — I’ve studied homework since 2010. Here are six ways I believe homework can be made more manageable and valuable, whether your child is in elementary school, middle school, high school, or graduate school.

Set priorities

Tackle difficult tasks first, break tasks down to smaller steps, create evidence of learning, build a network of support, revisit goals and set new ones.

Homes Nearby

Homes for rent and sale near schools

Why your neighborhood school closes for good – and what to do when it does

What should I write my college essay about?

What the #%@!& should I write about in my college essay?

How longer recess fuels child development

How longer recess fuels stronger child development

Yes! Sign me up for updates relevant to my child's grade.

Please enter a valid email address

Thank you for signing up!

Server Issue: Please try again later. Sorry for the inconvenience

The Edvocate

• Lynch Educational Consulting
• Dr. Lynch’s Personal Website
• Write For Us
• The Tech Edvocate Product Guide
• The Edvocate Podcast
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Assistive Technology
• Best PreK-12 Schools in America
• Child Development
• Classroom Management
• Early Childhood
• EdTech & Innovation
• Education Leadership
• First Year Teachers
• Gifted and Talented Education
• Special Education
• Parental Involvement
• Policy & Reform
• Best Colleges and Universities
• Best College and University Programs
• HBCU’s
• Higher Education EdTech
• Higher Education
• International Education
• The Awards Process
• Finalists and Winners of The 2023 Tech Edvocate Awards
• Award Seals
• GPA Calculator for College
• GPA Calculator for High School
• Cumulative GPA Calculator
• Grade Calculator
• Weighted Grade Calculator
• Final Grade Calculator
• The Tech Edvocate
• AI Powered Personal Tutor

Teaching Students About the First Flight to the Moon

Teaching students about if christians are catholic, teaching students about jean arthur: an enlightening journey through the life of a hollywood icon, teaching students about reefer madness: understanding the history and dispelling the myths, teaching students about the meaning of “culminated” in a sentence, teaching students about mug shots: a valuable lesson in civics and law enforcement, teaching students about family words list, thank you messages for gift, teaching students about the downton abbey film: bringing history to life, teaching students about the league cup: a comprehensive guide, six ways to establish good homework habits.

When returning to school after summer break, many students are excited to see their friends and return to the routine of school. Although, many students and parents alike dread the idea of homework again. The topic can haunt parents as the stacks of flashcards and worksheets start to come out of backpacks. Many families deal with frustrations and tears from homework time, and the jury is still out on whether or not homework has a positive or negative effect on students. Many families have arguments about homework, and some students struggle tremendously to complete their homework. It can be a constant battle of wills with the child on one side and the parent on the other.

These frustrations and arguments that arise from homework are sometimes the results of poor preparation. Adjusting to homework time can be difficult for many students as they are already mentally spent from working all day in school. Homework, however, is a fact of life for most students, so it is important to establish good homework habits as soon as possible. Establishing good homework habits can make the routine smoother, studying more successful and it can also make everyone more relaxed and happier. Teaching good homework habits at a young age teaches the child self-discipline and good work habits. Having good homework habits can make the student more successful in school which leads to a more successful life. To establish good homework habits, try some of these tips:

• Create a routine

Whether you child begins homework as soon as they get home or they start working on it after dinner, creating a consistent routine tells the child what to expect. Knowing what to expect will prevent arguments and frustration from the child. Some students need time to recuperate after school ends while others do their best work while the information is still fresh in their mind. Experiment with different routines and see what works best. A child that struggles in school may benefit from taking a break from studies and instead play a video game which allows them to win and be a hero. Once their self-confidence and self-esteem are higher, working on homework may be more successful as they feel less defeated. Allow your child to have some input on what time of day they would like to complete their homework.

• Designate a place for homework

Some students work well in their bedrooms while others are successful at the kitchen table. No matter where it is at, designate a place for homework to be done. This place should be well lit and free from distractions such as television or younger siblings that may interfere. If you find your child fidgeting or distracted in an area, try out a new area to see if their concentration improves.

• Provide materials

Get a tub or designate a drawer to homework materials. Having a functioning pencil sharpener, markers, a ruler and other supplies will ensure that they will have the supplies they need to complete the homework. Sharpen several pencils, so they are ready to go should a pencil break and also provide a basic calculator for the student to check their answers. Having the materials already provided will prevent wasted time spent on searching for or preparing materials.

• Observe your child doing homework

Keep track of what your child is doing. Review their homework before they start. Did they learn about this in class today or is it new information? Note any distractions that occur and try to prevent them in the future. Is your child fidgeting or unable to focus? Rearranging the routine to allow for some downtime in between school and homework may help a child focus. Is your child struggling with a subject? Check their answers periodically to be sure they understand what is expected of them.

• Do not do their homework for them

Sometimes it can take serious self-control to not take the paper from them and write in the correct answer. While homework can be frustrating, it is often a necessary evil and is only productive when the child does it. If the parent helps too much or does the homework for them, the student does not learn anything and will likely struggle as a result. Help the student should a problem arise, walk them through math problems and give them hints on answers. However, should your child struggle on each question of a subject on a consistent basis, it may be time to contact the teacher with concerns.

• Stay in contact with the teacher

Usually, your child’s teacher will inform you of the expectations for homework whether it is through a presentation or a flyer sent home. Learn the expectations and ask the teacher any questions you may have. Ask if the homework is supposed to reinforce what is taught at school or prepare the student for what’s coming up next. Does the teacher expect all the answers to be correct or does she want the child to get incorrect answers so she can address the missed problems if there are any? If your child is ill for longer than a day, contact the teacher right away to get a homework packet, so your child doesn’t fall behind.

Establishing a routine, making expectations clear, providing materials, preventing distractions and helping your child through problems are all ways to improve their success in homework. Regardless of your opinion on homework, it is often part of the classroom, and the students must complete it to get a passing grade. Creating a distraction free environment will prevent mistakes and confusion as well as speed up the process. Your child’s success in school largely depends on their ability to complete homework, and the good homework habits begin with you. Show your child how to establish routines, work efficiently and meet expectations with homework as you will not only help them get better grades in school, but you will also teach them self-discipline which will go a long way.

Pass or Fail: Effective Teachers Instead of ...

What robots can teach kindergarteners.

Matthew Lynch

Related articles more from author, how teachers can use edtech to boost engagement.

7 Ways to Develop Grit in Your Kids

The Lasting Impact of the Early Childhood Years

Parental involvement in early childhood learning: a stitch in time saves nine.

Here Are 4 of My Thoughts on Whether Universal Pre-K is Necessary

9 Ways to Positively Impact Your Kid’s Language Development

8 Elements to a Successful Homework Routine

Setting aside the debate about whether or not homework is beneficial , there’s no doubt that it’s a staple of most kids’ academic routines. And while a missed assignment here or there may seem like no big deal, you might be surprised about how chronic lateness or missed practice can spiral into long-term negative impacts. Kids can quickly find themselves confused, getting bad test grades , and struggling with stress and anxiety in school.

That’s all the more reason to get a solid homework routine in place and make adjustments as needed. 

(Don’t get us wrong: we’re not proposing that kids race through their homework and turn in sloppy, incomplete work. When assigned correctly, homework provides valuable opportunities for practice, and kids should take advantage of those opportunities.) 

Here are eight elements to creating a homework routine that will help kids and teens complete assignments quickly—and well!

1. Build good assignment recording habits 

Yes, the secret to getting homework done quickly and correctly starts before kids finish their school day! 

Think about it. 

If they’re missing key details about assignment instructions or where to find what they need, the homework process automatically gets longer and more frustrating.

So, encourage your student to ask their teacher clarifying questions in class or during the school day. Teachers will often establish clear routines about where homework assignments can be found (posted in the classroom, on their website etc.). Kids should be well-versed in these routines and accustomed to writing them down or recording them as needed. If your student isn’t there yet, it’s a great place to start. 

2. Create a dedicated workspace

Ask your child: where do they do their homework? Is it on the couch with Netflix going in the background, or on the go between other activities?

If that’s the case, that could well be the root of the issue. A focused environment can make all the difference in getting homework done efficiently. Talk with your child about the best environment for giving their homework their undivided attention. 

3. Remove electronic distractions

They deserve their own category because of how frequently they are the true culprits!

As most parents are likely aware, social media, video games, and other online platforms can be a major distraction if they’re within reach during homework time. Make sure they’re removed from where your child is doing their homework: cell phones should remain in a different room, try using websites like Blocksite if internet access is necessary for their homework, and encourage low-tech alternatives (a handheld calculator instead of a cell phone, a textbook instead of a laptop, etc.).

4. Make a schedule and stick to it

Encourage your child to take stock of the night’s assignments and stick to a homework schedule to make sure they’re on track. They may need help at first to estimate how much time each assignment might take, and support from you can go a long way here! 

It also helps to jot down this schedule somewhere to have a visual reminder of how things are going. That way, if kids get distracted or are perhaps over-analyzing a homework problem, they can remember the plan.

5. Take time to gather necessary materials

Last-minute scrambling can be a major time suck. And by being proactive, your student can avoid that scramble. Before jumping into their homework, kids should make sure they have everything they need.  

This should factor into the schedule-making phase of doing homework, and once they have everything they require, kids can get started. If you’re concerned that this process might in itself become a distraction for your child, it’s probably a good idea to support and/or supervise this process, at least until kids can navigate it independently. 

6. Plan for overcoming distractions

Changing habits takes time, and expecting perfection can actually hinder progress more than it can help. Especially as kids adjust to their new homework routine, distractions and slip-ups are bound to happen, so it’s best to have a plan in place for that eventuality.

It might be wise to anticipate how kids can respond quickly if they miss an assignment or get sidetracked. Work with them to develop a plan for getting back on track, a habit that will be equally important in building strong homework habits. 

7. Schedule breaks

Wouldn’t it be nice if we could power through our to-do lists without needing to stop and take a breath? Yes, but unfortunately, we’re only human! So, it makes all the sense in the world to schedule breaks into the homework schedule. 

Ideally, these breaks should be quick and planned as part of the schedule your child has created, potentially with your help. Shoot for 5-10 minutes, something kids can easily pick up and put down so they can get back to work.

8. Pick a reward for successful homework completion! 

Positive reinforcement is what keeps good habits going over time. Make sure to praise your child for knocking out their homework in a timely manner. Brainstorm with your child about long and short term rewards, and you’ll be amazed at how they can sustain positive change. 

With all the demands of school today, it’s a game changer to have one less thing to worry about.

Featured Posts

Meet id tech.

Sign up for our emails to learn more about why iD Tech is #1 in STEM education! Be the first to hear about new courses, locations, programs, and partnerships–plus receive exclusive promotions! AI summer camps , coding classes for kids , and more!

Virginia started with iD Tech at the University of Denver in 2015 and has loved every minute since then! A former teacher by trade, she has a master's in education and loves working to embolden the next generation through STEM. Outside the office, you can usually find her reading a good book, struggling on a yoga mat, or exploring the Rocky Mountains. 

Related posts

• The 13 Best Math Apps for Kids in 2024 The way students learn is changing. Just like in other aspects of 21st century life, the mobile device is front and center. Whether kids are using
• 25 Fun & Creative Math Activities Club Students Will Love If math is your student’s least favorite subject, everything from classes to homework to
• Parent Resources 7 online homework tips for a successful distance learning experience I’ve known plenty of smart, successful people who simply weren’t great at focusing, whether that was during tests, when studying, in class, in meet

iD Tech Privacy Policy

Id tech privacy policy publish date: 10/26/2023.

internalDrive, Inc. (“iD Tech”) respects your privacy and recognizes the importance of your personal information. We are committed to protecting your information through our compliance with this Privacy Policy.

This Privacy Policy applies to all individuals who visit and/or use iD Tech/internalDrive, Inc.'s websites, services, and products that collect data and/or display these terms ("iD Sites & Services"). This Privacy Policy describes the types of information we may collect when you visit an iD Tech website, open an account or receive iD Tech Services and our practices for using, maintaining, protecting and disclosing that information. 

All references to "us," "we," or "our" refer to iD Tech/internalDrive, Inc.

All references to "child" or "children" refer to children  under the age of 13.

By accessing or otherwise using any of our iD Sites & Services, you consent to the terms contained in this privacy statement, including the collection, use, and disclosure of data as described below.

California Residents:  iD Tech’s  PRIVACY NOTICE FOR CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS  supplements the information contained in this Privacy Policy and applies solely to visitors, users, and others who reside in the State of California.

I.   Information We May Ask You To Provide

Through our iD Sites & Services, we collect information about you and/or your student when you choose to provide it to us. For example, we collect information from you so you can use iD Sites & Services, purchase products and services, register for and obtain an account, request information, apply for a job, register for one of our programs, or verify your age. In general, we may ask you to provide us with the following types of information about you and/your student:

• Contact information such as name, email address, mailing address, phone numbers (note to parents/guardians of children: if we have actual knowledge that a user is under 13 years old, the child will be asked to have their parent or guardian continue the registration process);
• Month, day, and year of birth;
• Gender preference;
• Course interests;
• Billing information such as credit card number and billing address;
• User names to third-party systems (for example, Facebook);
• Information provided on forums or chat rooms within our iD Sites & Services (note to parents/guardians of children: forums and chat rooms permit a child user to enter comments through which the child could provide personal information that would be visible to other users);
• Information included in résumés and job applications; and
• Health, any participation limitations or needs, immunization and allergy information.

Note to Parents/Guardians : We only collect the information described above, from someone we know to be a child, after the child's parent or guardian provides us with verifiable consent, unless one of the limited exceptions discussed below applies. For more information and/or to review these limited exceptions, please see the " Our Commitment to Children’s Privacy " section below. II.   Information Collected Automatically Cookies and other Tracking Technologies We may use cookies, web beacons, pixel tags, log files, Local Storage Objects, or other technologies to collect certain information about visitors to and users of iD Sites & Services, such as the date and time you visit iD Sites & Services, the areas or pages of iD Sites & Services that you visit, the amount of time you spend viewing or using iD Sites & Services, the number of times you return to iD Sites & Services, other click-stream or usage data, and emails that you open, forward or click through to iD Sites & Services. For example, we may automatically collect certain information, such as the type of web browser and operating system you use, the name of your Internet Service Provider, Internet Protocol (“IP”) address, software version, and the domain name from which you accessed our iD Sites & Services. We use this information to monitor and improve our iD Sites & Services, support the internal operations of our iD Sites & Services, personalize your online experience, verify e-signatures, and for internal analysis.

We may also use cookies, web beacons, and other similar technologies from third party partners such as Google for measurement services, better targeting advertisements and for marketing purposes.  These cookies, web beacons, and other similar technologies allow us to display our promotional material to you on other sites you visit across the internet.  Our third-party advertising partners may also use these technologies to identify your browsing interests over time and across different websites to deliver targeted advertisements. 

iD Sites & Services do not recognize “Do Not Track” headers or similar mechanisms.

iD Tech partners with Rakuten Advertising, who may collect personal information when you interact with our site. The collection and use of this information is subject to Rakuten’s privacy policy located at  https://rakutenadvertising.com/legal-notices/services-privacy-policy/ . Our Sites & Services may also use other third-party plug-ins to provide additional services and benefits. These third parties may collect information about you as well. When we use a third-party plug-in we will attempt to provide you with the identify the plug-in, so you can visit the sites of the third-parties to view the privacy policy under which the information they collect is identified and controlled. 

We may also collect geolocation information from your device so we can customize your experience on our iD Sites & Services. In most cases, you are able to turn off such data collection at any time by accessing the privacy settings of your device and/or through the settings in the applicable GPS application. Social Media You also can engage with our content, and other offerings, on or through social media services or other third-party platforms, such as Facebook, or other third-party social media plug-ins, integrations and applications. When you engage with our content on or through social media services or other third-party platforms, plug-ins, integrations or applications, you may allow us to have access to certain information in your profile. This may include your name, email address, photo, gender, birthday, location, an ID associated with the applicable third-party platform or social media account user files, like photos and videos, your list of friends or connections, people you follow and/or who follow you, or your posts or "likes." For a description on how social media services and other third-party platforms, plug-ins, integrations, or applications handle your information, please refer to their respective privacy policies and terms of use, which may permit you to modify your privacy settings.

When we interact with you through our content on third-party websites, applications, integrations or platforms, we may obtain any information regarding your interaction with that content, such as content you have viewed, and information about advertisements within the content you have been shown or may have clicked on. Information from Third Party Services We may also obtain other information, including personal information, from third parties and combine that with information we collect through our Websites. For example, we may have access to certain information from a third-party social media or authentication service if you log in to our Services through such a service or otherwise provide us with access to information from the service. Any access that we may have to such information from a third-party social media or authentication service is in accordance with the authorization procedures determined by that service. If you authorize us to connect with a third-party service, we will access and store your name, email address(es), current city, profile picture URL, and other personal information that the third party service makes available to us, and use and disclose it in accordance with this Policy. You should check your privacy settings on these third-party services to understand and change the information sent to us through these services. For example, you can log in to the Services using single sign-in services such as Facebook Connect or an Open ID provider.

III.    Your Ability To Control Cookies And Similar Technologies As noted, we may use cookies or similar technologies to monitor and improve iD Sites & Services, support the internal operations of iD Sites & Services, personalize your online experience, support the e-signature process, and/or for internal analysis. This includes the use of third-party cookies. We use these technologies to keep track of how you are using our iD Sites & Services and to remember certain pieces of general information. 

You have the ability to accept or decline cookies. Most web browsers automatically accept cookies, but you can usually modify your browser setting to decline cookies if you prefer. Check the “Tools” or “Help” tab on your browser to learn how to change your cookie and other tracking preferences.

If you choose to decline cookies, you may not be able to fully experience the functions of iD Sites & Services and/or some of our services will function improperly, in particular the inability to log in or manage items in your shopping cart. We do not share cookie data with any third parties. IV.   How We May Use Your Information We may use the information we collect from and about you and/or your student for any of the following purposes:

• Allow you to register yourself or your student with iD Sites & Services, or to otherwise register and open an account with us;
• Allow you and/or your student to use iD Sites & Services;
• Fulfill orders, process payments, and prevent transactional fraud;
• Respond to your or your student’s requests or inquiries;
• Provide you or your student with information about our products and services;
• Consider you for employment or a volunteer opportunity;
• Register you or your student in one of our programs;
• Verify your student's age;
• Monitor and improve iD Sites & Services, support the internal operations of iD Sites & Services, personalize your online experience, and for internal analysis;
• Protect the security or integrity of iD Sites & Services and our business;
• Facilitate the sale or potential sale of our business or any of our assets; or
• As required by law.

V.   How We Share Information We do not sell or otherwise share your or your student’s information with any third parties, except for the limited purposes described below. Parents/guardians of children under the age of 13 have the option of consenting to the collection and use of their child's personal information without consenting to the disclosure of that information to certain third parties.  

1.   Law Enforcement And Safety

We may access, preserve, and/or disclose the information we collect and/or content you and/or your student/child provides to us (including information posted on our forums) to a law enforcement agency or other third parties if required to do so by law or with a good faith belief that such access, preservation, or disclosure is reasonably necessary to: (i) comply with legal process; (ii) enforce the Terms and Conditions of iD Sites & Services; (iii) respond to claims that the content violates the rights of third parties; or (iv) protect the rights, property, or personal safety of the owners or users of iD Sites & Services, a third party, or the general public. We also may disclose information whenever we believe disclosure is necessary to limit our legal liability; to protect or defend our rights or property; or protect the safety, rights, or property of others.  2.   Service Providers; Colleges and Universities Information collected through iD Sites & Services may be transferred, disclosed, or shared with third parties engaged by us to handle and deliver certain activities, such as housing, meals, payment processing, mail/email distribution, software providers, and to perform other technical and processing functions, such as maintaining data integrity, programming operations, user services, or technology services. We may provide these third parties’ information collected as needed to perform their functions, but they are prohibited from using it for other purposes and specifically agree to maintain the confidentiality of such information. Some of these providers, such as payment processors, may request additional information during the course of offering their services. Before you provide additional information to third-party providers, we encourage you to review their privacy policies and information collection practices. 3.    Business Transfer During the normal course of our business, we may sell or purchase assets. If another entity may acquire and/or acquires us or any of our assets, information we have collected about you may be transferred to such entity. In addition, if any bankruptcy or reorganization proceeding is brought by or against us, such information may be considered an asset of ours and may be sold or transferred to third parties. Should a sale or transfer occur, we will use reasonable efforts to try to require that the transferee use personal information provided through our iD Sites & Services in a manner that is consistent with this privacy statement. VI.            Our Commitment To Children’s Privacy Protecting the privacy of children is paramount. We understand that users and visitors of our iD Sites & Services who are under 13 years of age need special safeguards and privacy protection. It is our intent to fully comply with the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). 

Our iD Sites & Services are intended for general audiences. We do not knowingly permit anyone under 13 years of age to provide us with personal information without obtaining a parent's or guardian’s verifiable consent, except where:

• the sole purpose of collecting the name or online contact information of a parent or child is to provide notice and obtain parental consent;
• the purpose of collecting a parent’s online contact information is to provide voluntary notice to, and subsequently update the parent about, the child’s participation in our iD Sites & Services that do not otherwise collect, use, or disclose childrens' personal information;
• the sole purpose of collecting online contact information from a child is to respond directly on a one-time basis to a specific request from the child, and where such information is not used to re-contact the child or for any other purpose, is not disclosed, and is deleted by us promptly after responding to the child’s request;
• the purpose of collecting a child’s and a parent’s online contact information is to respond directly more than once to the child’s specific request, and where such information is not used for any other purpose, disclosed, or combined with any other information collected from the child;
• the purpose of collecting a child’s and a parent’s name and online contact information, is to protect the safety of a child, and where such information is not used or disclosed for any purpose unrelated to the child’s safety;
• we collect a persistent identifier and no other personal information and such identifier is used for the sole purpose of providing support for the internal operations of iD Sites & Services; or
• otherwise permitted or required by law.

If we receive the verifiable consent of a child's parent or guardian to collect, use, and/or disclose the child's information, we will only collect, use, and disclose the information as described in this privacy statement. Some features of our iD Sites & Services permit a child user to enter comments, such as forums and chat rooms, through which the child could provide personal information that would be visible to other users. If you are the parent or guardian of a child user, please advise your child of the risks of posting personal information on this iD Sites & Services or any other site. VII.           Parental/Guardian Rights If you are a parent or guardian, you can review or have deleted your child's personal information, and refuse to permit further collection or use of your child's information. To exercise any of these rights, please email us at  [email protected] or send your request to:

iD Tech ∙ PO Box 111720 ∙ Campbell, CA 950011 Client Service Toll Free Number: 1-888-709-8324

VIII.         Restrictions On Child Users Children under 13 years of age are prevented from accessing areas of iD Sites & Services which include, but are not restricted to, client account information, unless approved by their parent or guardian and any course content defined as age inappropriate by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). IX.            Forums And Chats We may offer forums and chat rooms. Please be aware that anyone may read postings on a forum or in a chat room. Furthermore, any information which is posted to a forum or chat room could include personal information, which would be disclosed and available to all users of that forum or chat room, and is therefore no longer private. We cannot guarantee the security of information that any user discloses or communicates online in public areas such as forums and chat rooms. Those who do so, do so at their own risk. We reserve the right to monitor the content of the forums and chat rooms. If age-inappropriate content or potentially identifiable information is seen, it may be removed or edited by us for security, privacy, and/or legal reasons. We will not republish postings from forums or chat rooms anywhere on the Web. X.             Links And Third Parties

At our discretion, we may include or offer third-party websites, products, and services on iD Sites & Services. These third-party sites, products, and services have separate and independent privacy policies. You should consult the respective privacy policies of these third parties. We have no responsibility or liability for the content and activities of linked sites, products, or services.

Our iD Sites & Services may contain links to other third-party websites, chat rooms, or other resources that we provide for your convenience. These sites are not under our control, and we are not responsible for the content available on other sites. Such links do not imply any endorsement of material on our part and we expressly disclaim all liability with regard to your access to such sites. Access to any other websites linked to from iD Sites & Services is at your own risk.  

XI.             Legal Basis for processing Personal Data and Your Data Protection Rights under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

If you are a resident of the European Economic Area (EEA), iD Tech’s legal basis for collecting and using your personal information as described in this policy depends on the personal Data we collect and the context in which we collect it.  ID Tech may process your personal data:

• To provide the services which you requested or purchased;
• Because you have given us permission to do so;
• To provide you with better services, including conducting audits and data analysis;
• For payment processing;
• For marketing; and 
• To comply with the law

You have certain data protection rights. iD Tech aims to take reasonable steps to allow you to correct, amend, delete or limit the use of your Personal Data.

If you wish to be informed about what Personal Data we hold about you and if you want it to be removed from our systems, please contact us at  [email protected] .

In certain circumstances, you have the following data protection rights:

• The right to access, update, or delete the information we have on you. Whenever made possible, you can access, update, or request deletion of your Personal Data directly within your account settings section. If you are unable to perform these actions yourself, please contact us to assist you.
• The right to have your information corrected if that information is inaccurate or incomplete.
• The right to object. You have the right to object to our processing of your Personal Data.
• The right of restriction. You have the right to request that we restrict the processing of your personal information.
• The right to data portability. You have the right to be provided with a copy of the information we have on you in a structured, machine-readable, and commonly used format.
• The right to withdraw consent. You also have the right to withdraw your consent at any time where iD Tech relied on your consent to process your personal information.

Please note that we may ask you to verify your identity before responding to such requests.

You have the right to complain to a Data Protection Authority about our collection and use of your Personal Data. For more information, please contact your local data protection authority in the European Economic Area (EEA). XII.           International Visitors  (non GDPR Locations) Our iD Sites & Services are operated and managed on servers located in the United States. If you choose to use our iD Sites & Services from the European Union or other regions of the world with laws governing data collection and uses that differ from the United States, then you recognize and agree that you are transferring your personal information outside of those regions to the United States and you consent to that transfer. XIII.          Data Security Commitment To prevent unauthorized access, maintain data accuracy, and ensure the correct use of information, we have put in place reasonable physical, electronic, and managerial procedures to safeguard and secure the information we collect. We also use Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) protocol on your account information and registration pages to protect sensitive personal information. Sensitive data is encrypted on our iD Sites & Services and when stored on the servers.

XIV. How You Can Access, Request A Copy, Correct, Or Ask For Information To Be Deleted Access to certain personal Information that is collected from our Services and that we maintain may be available to you. For example, if you created a password-protected account within our Service, you can access that account to review the information you provided.

You may also send an email or letter to the following email or call the number provided to ask for a copy, correction, or ask us to delete your personal Information. Please include your registration information for such services, such as first name, last name, phone, and email address in the request. We may ask you to provide additional information for identity verification purposes or to verify that you are in possession of an applicable email account. Email: [email protected] Phone: 1-888-709-8324 XV. How To Contact Us/Opting Out Of Electronic Communications If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or if you have provided your email and/or address and prefer not to receive marketing information, please contact us via email or call at the number provided below.  Make sure you provide your name as well as the email(s) and address(es) you wish to have removed. 

If you have signed up to receive text messages from us and no longer wish to receive such messages, you may call or email us at the address provided below. Please provide your name, account email, and the number(s) you want removed. Email: [email protected] Phone: 1-888-709-8324 XVI.         Terms And Conditions Your use of our iD Sites & Services and any information you provide on our iD Sites & Services are subject to the terms of the internalDrive, Inc. (referred to as “iD Tech”) Terms and Conditions. XVII.         Privacy Statement Changes We will occasionally amend this privacy statement. We reserve the right to change, modify, add, or remove portions of this statement at any time. If we materially change our use of your personal information, we will announce such a change on relevant iD Sites & Services and will also note it in this privacy statement. The effective date of this privacy statement is documented at the beginning of the statement. If you have any questions about our privacy statement, please contact us in writing at [email protected] or by mail at PO Box 111720, Campbell, CA 95011. XVIII.          Your Credit Card Information And Transactions For your convenience, you may have us bill you or you can pay for your orders by credit card. If you choose to pay by credit card, we will keep your credit card information on file, but we do not display that information at the online registration site. For your security, your credit card security number is not stored in our system.

We use state-of-the-art Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encryption technology to safeguard and protect your personal information and transactions over the Internet. Your information, including your credit card information, is encrypted and cannot be read as it travels over the Internet. XIX.         Social Networking Disclaimer iD Tech provides several opportunities for social networking for both participants and staff on sites such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Flickr, and YouTube. These sites are not affiliated with iD Tech and offer their own individual social networking services. Please read the following Terms and Conditions carefully, as well as the Terms and Conditions of the sites in which iD Tech has created a forum ("Group"). These Terms and Conditions are a legal agreement between you and iD Tech and apply to you whether you are a visitor to these sites or any site with an official iD Tech affiliation. iD Tech is a member of several pre-existing sites (as mentioned above). There may be, however, portions of  www.iDTech.com  that include areas where participants can post submissions. Any of the above-mentioned "Sites" (or other similar sites) have their own distinct rules and regulations. iD Tech reserves the right to take action to remove any content deemed inappropriate by the sites or by iD Tech standards. iD Tech will not be held liable for any loss of content or disagreements that may arise between the individual social networking site and the user. You understand that by registering for an iD Tech program, your participant(s) may access and upload content to social networking sites. In order to access certain features of the social networking sites or pages on iDTech.com, and to post Member Submissions, the majority of these sites require that the user open an account with them. Please note that these sites have their own individual Terms and Conditions that must be followed. Age requirements are outlined within each Site's Terms and Conditions. You hereby authorize your participant to access social networking sites while at camp and create an account if they choose to do so and if they meet the requirements listed by each site to create an account. Interaction with other users:

• iD Tech is merely providing a medium in which to socialize online with fellow participants. Users are solely responsible for interactions (including any disputes) with other Members and any volunteers that may advise and assist participants with projects and activities via your use of the iD Site & Services.
• You understand that iD Tech does not in any way screen Members or review or police: (i) statements made by Members in their Member Submissions or the Member Submissions in general; or (ii) statements made by Users or any information a User may provide via the iD Site & Services.
• You understand that your participant(s) is solely responsible for, and will exercise caution, discretion, common sense, and judgment in using the various iD Sites & Services and disclosing personal information to other Members or Users. 
• On behalf of your participant(s), you agree that they will take reasonable precautions in all interactions with other Members, particularly if they decide to meet a Member offline or in person.
• Your participant's use of the social networking sites with which iD Tech is affiliated, their services, and/or Content and Member Submissions, is at your sole risk and discretion and iD Tech hereby disclaims any and all liability to you or any third party relating thereto.
• On behalf of your participant(s), you agree that they will not harass, threaten, intimidate, bully, stalk, or invade the privacy of any individual in connection with your use of the social networking sites with which iD Tech is affiliated and their services, whether or not an individual is an iD Tech Member; and you further agree not to advocate such activities or to encourage others to engage in any such activities.
• On behalf of your participant(s), you agree they will not give their social networking information to an iD Tech staff member.
• You and your participant(s) should also be aware that under no circumstances are iD Tech employees allowed to give personal contact information for social networking sites. This must be arranged by the participant's parent/guardian through the People Services Department.

XX.        Copyright & Intellectual Property Policy: You agree that you and your participant will not use the social networking sites to offer, display, distribute, transmit, route, provide connections to, or store any material that infringes copyrighted works, trademarks, or service marks or otherwise violates or promotes the violation of the intellectual property rights of any third party. internalDrive, Inc. has adopted and implemented a policy that provides for the termination in appropriate circumstances of the accounts of users who repeatedly infringe or are believed to be or are charged with repeatedly infringing the intellectual property or proprietary rights of others. XXI.       Disclaimer:   BY USING THE SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES OR SUBMITTING A MEMBER SUBMISSION, YOU AGREE THAT INTERNALDRIVE, INC. IS NOT RESPONSIBLE, AND WILL IN NO EVENT BE HELD LIABLE, FOR ANY: (A) LOST, ILLEGIBLE, MISDIRECTED, DAMAGED, OR INCOMPLETE MEMBER SUBMISSIONS; (B) COMPUTER OR NETWORK MALFUNCTION OR ERROR; (C) COMMUNICATION DISRUPTION OR OTHER DISRUPTIONS RELATED TO INTERNET TRAFFIC, A VIRUS, BUG, WORM, OR NON-AUTHORIZED INTERVENTION; OR (D) DAMAGE CAUSED BY A COMPUTER VIRUS OR OTHERWISE FROM YOUR ACCESS TO THE SITE OR SERVICES. THE SITE, SERVICES, INTERNALDRIVE, INC., CONTENT, AND MEMBER SUBMISSIONS ARE PROVIDED "AS IS" WITH NO WARRANTY OF ANY KIND. INTERNALDRIVE, INC. AND ITS SUPPLIERS EXPRESSLY DISCLAIM ALL WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, REGARDING THE SITE, SERVICES, INTERNALDRIVE, INC., CONTENT AND MEMBER SUBMISSIONS, WHETHER THE PROVISION OF SERVICES OR YOUR SUBMISSION OF A MEMBER SUBMISSION WILL PRODUCE ANY LEVEL OF PROFIT OR BUSINESS FOR YOU OR LEAD TO ECONOMIC BENEFIT, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF QUALITY, AVAILABILITY, MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR NON-INFRINGEMENT. IN ADDITION, INTERNALDRIVE, INC. MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY THAT THE SITE OR SERVICES WILL BE ERROR FREE OR THAT ANY ERRORS WILL BE CORRECTED. SOME STATES OR JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OF CERTAIN WARRANTIES. ACCORDINGLY, SOME OF THE ABOVE EXCLUSIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. XXII.         Indemnification:   You agree to defend, indemnify, and hold iD Tech, its officers, directors, employees, and agents, harmless from and against any claims, liabilities, damages, losses, and expenses, including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys' fees and costs, arising out of or in any way connected with: (i) your access to or use of social networking sites, their services, iD Tech Content and Member Submissions; (ii) your violation of these Terms of Use; (iii) your violation of any third-party right, including, without limitation, any intellectual property right, publicity, confidentiality, property, or privacy right; or (iv) any claim that one of your Member Submissions caused damage to a third party or infringed or violated any third-party intellectual property right, publicity, confidentiality, property, or privacy right.

iD Tech Terms & Conditions

Id tech general terms & conditions publish date: october 26, 2023.

These Terms and Conditions apply to all pages found at www.idtech.com  and all Programs operated by internalDrive, Inc. (referred to as "iD Tech") including but not limited to iD Tech In-Person programs and iD Tech Online Programs. These terms apply to all lessons, classes, courses, and options offered by iD Tech (hereinafter referred to individually as “Program” or collectively “Programs”).

Privacy Policy: By using iD Tech’s website, registering you or your student for a Program, and/or affirmatively giving your agreement, you are agreeing on your own behalf and that of your student to abide and be bound by the Privacy Policy found HERE and the Terms and Conditions contained and referenced herein.

Online Programs: If you are purchasing, or you or your student is participating in an Online Program you also agree on your own behalf and on behalf of your student, to be bound by the additional terms and conditions found HERE .

On-Campus Programs: If you are purchasing, or you or your student is participating in, an On-Campus Program, you also agree on your own behalf and on behalf of your student to be bound by the additional terms and conditions found HERE .

I. Code of Conduct

To promote the best learning environment possible, all students and parents will be held to this Code of Conduct. Failure to comply with this Code of Conduct or engaging in actions or attitudes that seem to be harmful to the atmosphere, other participants, or staff, in the opinion of iD Tech can lead to removal from a Program or Program(s). iD Tech reserves the right to dismiss students from a Program and prevent a student from attending additional Programs without any prior warning for (1) violating any of the terms of this code of conduct, or (2) if iD Tech determines that a Program is not a suitable and/or productive environment for a student (this includes incidents in which a student does not have sufficient English language skills to participate in the Program; participation in courses requires a high level of English understanding). Refunds will not be given for students dismissed for failure of the student or the parent to abide by the Code of Conduct, or if it is determined that a Program is not suitable for a student. While iD Tech strives to maintain excellent relationships with students, in some rare cases, we may determine that iD Tech is not a compatible environment for every student.

Students and parents/guardians may NEVER:

• Disrupt, bully, intimidate, or harass others;
• Use inappropriate language (for example, students cannot use of swear or curse words, racial, gendered, homophobic/transphobic, stereotypical, or culturally insensitive words, even if done in a joking manner);
• View, display or post any inappropriate material (including sexual content, material depicting inappropriate violence, racism, bullying, etc.) during a Program;
• Share Program information (including lesson plans, etc.) with third-parties, without permission from iD Tech;
• Impersonate another person; or
• Contact instructors outside of the Program.

Students also may NEVER:

• Engage in Internet hacking;
• Create an account on or log into third-party websites without the permission of their instructor;
• Use false information to create an account on or log into third-party websites;
• Share personal information with staff members or ask staff members for their personal information;
• Share or create video or audio recordings of iD Tech staff or another student without the permission of iD Tech.

Students and parents/guardians MUST:

• Follow directions/instructions of iD Tech personnel;
• If online, ensure the student attends the Program in an appropriate, private setting;
• Dress appropriately during the Program;
• Adhere to the terms of use of any sites used, including following the specified age policies; and
• Only share material that is related to lessons and appropriate.

II. Age Policy

iD Tech offers Programs for students ages 7-19. Therefore, students may interact and/or room with a student that is within this age range including 18 or 19 years old. Please note the age range of the Program being registered for.

If a student is 18 or 19 years old and participating in an On-Campus Program, they must successfully pass a criminal and sexual offender background check prior to being allowed to attend. Clients are responsible for all costs and fees associated with any background checks required for a student to attend.

III. Special Accommodations

If a student requires an accommodation to participate, or needs an aid to attend in an iD Tech Program, a parent/guardian must call iD Tech at 1-888-709-8324, no less than three weeks prior to your student’s first day of the Program to make needed arrangements.

If a student requires an aide to participate in an iD Tech Program, the aide must be age 18 or older, may not be a family member, and if it is an On -Campus Program, the aide must successfully pass a criminal and sexual offender background check prior ro being allowed to attend with the student. Aides may also be subject to fingerprinting. Clients are responsible for all direct costs, including background check processing fees, parking, and compensation for the aide’s attendance.

IV. Payment Policy

• Unless otherwise noted, all financial transactions are made and quoted in U.S. Dollars.
• All Payment Plan Fees, fees paid for Online Programs, and the $250 per week deposit for On-Campus Programs are non-refundable and non-transferrable.
• Other than if iD Tech needs to cancel a class, there are no refunds, credits or replacement days for classes missed. If iD Tech needs to cancel a class, iD Tech will either provide you a pro rata credit or reschedule the canceled class(es).
• If iD Tech cancels an entire Program for any reason, the fees paid for the Program will be refunded, less the non-refundable fees, as set out above. Non-refundable fees (other than the Payment Plan Fee, if any) will remain in your account as a fully transferable credit that is valid for three (3) years.
• iD Tech has the right to charge a $25 late fee on any payments not paid by the due date. For balances that are over 30 (thirty) days past due, iD Tech has the right to charge a 1% monthly finance charge and send the balance to a collection agency for collection (collection agency and legal fees may apply).
• All fees (registration, administrative, late, etc.) must be paid prior to the start of a Program, unless a payment plan has been agreed to. Students will be withdrawn from a Program if the Program has not been paid in full prior to the start of the Program, or if at any time a payment is not paid by the due date. No refunds, credits, or make-up classes will be provided if a session is missed due to a delinquent payment.
• By agreeing to a subscription or payment plan, you are authorizing iD Tech to auto charge the credit card on file as agreed at the time of purchase and as set out in My Account.
• A $35 returned check fee will be assessed for any checks returned or card transactions that are not honored.

V. Reservation Changes

To provide outstanding Programs, we may have to limit your ability to make changes (such as registering for a different course or changing attendance dates) and/or cancel a Program. Please reference the Terms and Conditions for specific Programs (linked above) for the rules and restrictions for changes and cancellations for that Program.

VI. Promotions and Discounts

Promotional discounts are limited to one discount per student. There may be other limitations as to how they apply, and codes must be submitted at the time of registration. iD Tech will not honor retroactive adjustments, and the total discounts received cannot exceed the total cost of the products purchased.

The Refer-a-Friend Program is a voluntary Program that applies to Small Group Classes and In-Person Programs.

• Each Referral Code can be used a maximum of 10 times. The code can only be used by students attending iD Tech for the first time (may be limited to certain Programs) and must be applied at the time of registration.
• A tuition credit will be given for each new student that registers for an In-Person Program or Small Group Class using a referral code and attends the course for which they registered.
• The Refer-a-Friend Program does not apply to siblings.
• Students may not refer each other to both qualify for the Refer-a-Friend Discount.
• Tuition credit will be applied after the referred client registers, pays in full and attends the Program. If the referred friend cancels his/her Program, the credit will be removed, and you will be responsible for any account balance that is created as a result of the lost credit.
• All tuition credits must be used in the Program term in which they are earned, can be used to offset Program tuition and other fees incurred, but do not entitle you to any form of payment.
• Tuition credits have no cash value.

VII. Certificates/Vouchers

All certificates/vouchers are non-refundable, non-transferable, and not redeemable for cash. Certificates/vouchers must be redeemed at the time of registration. Certificates/vouchers are valid until the specified expiration date, without exception. They are valid for up to the amount issued, and any amounts not used are forfeited.

VIII. General Releases

• Media Release: As a condition of participation, you authorize iD Tech and its partners to take photos, videos, images, audio, and testimonials of and/or from you and your student and agree that said content may be used by iD Tech in promotional materials, marketing collateral, and online media. These images, testimonials, photos, videos, and audio may be shared and used by corporate partners, the media, or other organizations that work with iD Tech. You also agree that all projects and work created by your student during an iD Tech Program may be used by iD Tech in promotional materials, online, and other print media, and may be shared and used by corporate partners, the media, or other organizations that work with iD Tech. You understand that iD Tech, its owners, agents, partners, facility providers, and employees will not be held liable for damages and injuries associated with use of any content released herein, including any and all claims based on negligence. You agree that all images, testimonials, photos, video, and audio taken at or in connection with an iD Tech Program are the sole and exclusive property of iD Tech, and that iD Tech has a royalty-free, perpetual license to use copies of all student work and projects created at an iD Tech Program.
• Name and Likeness Release: As a condition of participation, you authorize iD Tech and the press to use your student's full name and likeness in print, radio, TV, and other mediums.
• Project/Hardware Release: Some iD Tech Programs are project-based. In such instances, iD Tech will attempt to provide your student with the knowledge to produce a working project. Some iD Tech Programs include take home hardware. In those instances, iD Tech will send home a product or voucher for a product. However, there will be instances when a project or product or product voucher cannot be sent home, posted, or delivered, and you agree that iD Tech is not responsible if the game, project, product or voucher does not work properly and/or is not compatible with outside systems. You release iD Tech from any responsibility for failure to provide a copy of the project or product voucher, or a non-functioning/non-compatible/non-complete game, project, product voucher or product. Refunds will not be issued for not receiving products, product vouchers, or being provided a copy of the project, and/or non-functioning/non-compatible/non-complete projects, product vouchers or products. If you have issues with a product voucher or product, you must contact the manufacturer directly. Product vouchers only cover shipping within the continental U.S. Therefore, if you require the product to be shipped outside the continental US, you are responsible for all shipping and handling costs.
• Software Accounts: Some iD Tech Program activities require creation and/or use of an online account or require an online account to be created for your student. You consent to create or have iD Tech create account(s) as needed for your student to participate in Program activities. During non-instructional time, students may have access to websites that require accounts to be set up. While it is against iD Tech rules for students to set up accounts without their instructor’s permission, there may be instances where a student may create an account without the knowledge of iD Tech or its employees. In such instances, you release iD Tech and its employees from any and all responsibility and liability for accounts created by your student without iD Tech’s knowledge.
• Game Ratings: iD Tech takes its corporate responsibility and iD Tech family values very seriously. However, we cannot guarantee that younger students at iD Tech will avoid all contact with or mention of games rated "T" for Teen, or "M" for Mature. iD Tech will make a concerted effort to minimize both direct and indirect exposure to any games not rated for a student’s age group. Students attending courses designed for older ages have a greater chance of being exposed to materials rated for that older age group. If a student is attending a course for ages 13+, they may be exposed to games rated "M" for Mature by the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board). You voluntarily assume any and all risks, known or unknown, associated with your student’s exposure to game content at an iD Tech Program.

IX. Indemnification

You agree to defend, indemnify, and hold internalDrive, Inc.,iD Tech, its officers, directors, employees, and agents, harmless from and against any claims, liabilities, damages, losses, and expenses, including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys' fees and costs, arising out of or in any way connected with your student’s participation in an iD Tech Program.

X. Arbitration Agreement

You agree that any dispute other than collection matters, arising out of or relating to this Agreement, you or your student's participation in a Program with internalDrive, Inc., or otherwise arising between the parties, including, without limitation, any statutorily created or protected rights, as permitted by applicable state/provincial or federal laws, shall be settled by arbitration to be held in Santa Clara County, California, in accordance with the Commercial Rules of the American Arbitration Association, and judgment upon the award rendered by the arbitrator(s) may be entered in any court of competent jurisdiction. The prevailing party in the arbitration shall be entitled to recover expenses including costs and reasonable attorneys’ fees associated therewith. Should any part of this contract be found invalid or not enforceable by a court of law, then the remaining portion shall continue to be valid and in force. You hereby acknowledge that you understand the terms of this ARBITRATION AGREEMENT, and you agree to comply with all of its terms and provisions.

XI. Rights Reserved

internalDrive, Inc. reserves the right to update or modify these Terms and Conditions at any time. iD Tech is not a university-sponsored program. iD Tech reserves the right to cancel or modify any and all classes, lessons, Programs or courses for any reason.

XII. Release of Liability

ON BEHALF OF MY SON/DAUGHTER/WARD, I, THE PARENT/GUARDIAN, IN EXCHANGE FOR THE RIGHT OF MY SON/DAUGHTER/WARD TO PARTICIPATE IN ID TECH PROGRAM(S), HEREBY RELEASE INTERNALDRIVE, INC., ITS OWNERS, AGENTS, PARTNERS, FACILITY PROVIDERS, AND EMPLOYEES FROM LIABILITY (INCLUDING CLAIMS BASED UPON NEGLIGENCE) FOR ANY AND ALL DAMAGES OR INJURIES TO MY SON/DAUGHTER/WARD OR DAMAGE OF ANY PERSONAL PROPERTY. I AGREE TO BE FULLY RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY AND ALL SUCH DAMAGES OR INJURIES WHICH MAY RESULT DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY FROM ANY NEGLIGENT ACTS OR ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATED WITH INTERNALDRIVE, INC. HOWEVER, I UNDERSTAND THAT I AM NOT RELEASING INTERNALDRIVE, INC., ITS OWNERS, AGENTS, PARTNERS, FACILITY PROVIDERS, AND EMPLOYEES FROM GROSS NEGLIGENCE OR INTENTIONALLY TORTIOUS CONDUCT. TO THE EXTENT THIS RELEASE CONFLICTS WITH STATE/PROVINCIAL LAW GOVERNING RELEASES, THIS RELEASE IS TO BE GIVEN THE FULLEST FORCE AND EFFECT PERMITTED UNDER STATE/PROVINCIAL LAW. SHOULD ANY PART OF THIS CONTRACT BE FOUND INVALID OR NOT ENFORCEABLE BY A COURT OF LAW, THEN THE REMAINING PORTION SHALL CONTINUE TO BE VALID AND IN FORCE. XIII. Copyright

iD Tech partners with and uses the intellectual property of some amazing companies. You and your student agree to uphold the copyright and trademark rights of iD Tech, their partners, and any company whose products are used at an iD Tech Program.

Celebrating 25 Years

• Join ADDitude
•  | 

• What Is ADHD?
• The ADHD Brain
• ADHD Symptoms
• ADHD in Children
• ADHD in Adults
• ADHD in Women
• Find ADHD Specialists
• New! Symptom Checker
• ADHD Symptom Tests
• All Symptom Tests
• More in Mental Health
• Medication Reviews
• ADHD Medications
• Natural Remedies
• ADHD Therapies
• Managing Treatment
• Treating Your Child
• Behavior & Discipline
• School & Learning
• Teens with ADHD
• Positive Parenting
• Schedules & Routines
• Organizing Your Child
• Health & Nutrition
• More on ADHD Parenting
• Do I Have ADD?
• Getting Things Done
• Relationships
• Time & Productivity
• Organization
• Health & Nutrition
• More for ADHD Adults
• Free Webinars
• Free Downloads
• ADHD Videos
• ADHD Directory
• eBooks + More
• Women’s Health Month
• Newsletters
• Guest Blogs
• News & Research
• For Clinicians
• For Educators
• Manage My Subscription
• Get Back Issues
• Digital Magazine
• Gift Subscription
• Renew My Subscription
• ADHD Parenting

Two Ws and an H: Establishing a Homework Routine

Tired of disorganization when it comes to your child’s homework routine learn how answering “when where and how” can help create an after school routine that includes doing homework for the same time each day, steering clear of electronics, and more..

Back to school means back to homework. It may also mean arguments, tears, and frustration, because homework demands more discipline and consistency than many children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (or any kids, for that matter!) can muster. But you can make it easier by creating a homework routine built around three key questions: When? Where? and How?

• Schedule homework for a set time each day. Base this after school routine on your child’s temperament. Perhaps he’s at his best right after school, or maybe after an hour of downtime. Avoid late evening, which for most children is meltdown time.
• Be consistent from day to day. If after-school activities make that impossible, post a daily plan or weekly calendar in your kitchen that includes homework start and finish times each day.
• Schedule enough time to complete assignments without rushing, based on your child’s grade level and history of completing assignments.
• Give advance notice of homework time. This is important, because kids with ADHD/ADD don’t easily shift from one activity to another — especially from fun time to work time. You might say, “You can play for 15 more minutes, then come in for homework.”

[ Free ADHD Resource: Solve Your Child’s Homework Problems ]

• Help your child select a homework place. Try the kitchen table, where she can spread out materials. Or perhaps your child would like to sit at a desk in the quiet den.
• Steer clear of proximity to electronics (TV, CD player). But if your child concentrates best with soft noise, try some gentle background music.
• Stay nearby (if possible).  Kids with ADHD concentrate better when they know you’re close by. If your child needs to use the bathroom, remind him to come right back afterward. After he leaves the bathroom, remind him to return to his work.
• Set up rules. Draft and print a sheet that specifies: homework start and finish times; place; when and how long breaks are; and that you will be nearby to help her understand assignments, get organized, offer support — but not do the homework for her. Avoid arguments — calmly refer her to the Homework Rules.

[ Free Sample Schedules for Reliable Family Routines ]

• Help him start. Make sure your child knows what the assignment is and how to proceed. Offer assistance that matches his learning style. For a verbal processor, read directions to him or have him read them out loud; for a visual learner, show him how to use highlighters and colored markers to outline key words and sentences.
• Keep him going. If your child tries to stop before he’s finished, encourage him to go on a bit longer, and remind him there’ll be a break soon.
• Give her a break. Kids with ADHD and LD may become fatigued due to distractibility, challenges to concentrating, frustration, and restlessness. Help your child recharge by scheduling frequent, short breaks.
• Check in at the finish. Review your child’s work to see if it is complete. If your child consistently takes more time than she should, speak to her teacher to see if he’s willing to adjust the amount of homework.
• Offer praise. Compliment your child when he stays on task, works with focus, is creative, and so on. Be specific. Say, for example, “I like the way you concentrated on that problem and stuck with it until you solved it.” Give him an acknowledging pat or a squeeze mid-homework, too.
• Give rewards. It’s OK to offer a “prize” to motivate. For a younger child, try extra playtime, a favorite snack or game, or a special read-aloud; for an older child, a favorite TV program, computer time, or phone time.
• Stick with it. A new homework routine is part of a daily schedule and requires solid commitment. It takes one to three months for a routine to become a habit — even longer for a person with ADHD. But the payoff is discipline, self-control, and success-building skills.

[ Read: 12 Schoolwork Shortcuts for Kids Who Hate Homework ]

Afternoons: Read These Next

Top 25 Downloads from ADDitude’s First 25 Years

Top Webinars in ADDitude's History

Famous People with Dyslexia, Dyscalculia & Other Learning Differences

What Is Executive Dysfunction?

Adhd newsletter, the adhd parenting guide, behavior & discipline, positive parenting, organization, happiness & more..

It appears JavaScript is disabled in your browser. Please enable JavaScript and refresh the page in order to complete this form.

Homework ideas to make the most of your study routine

Table of Contents

Key takeaways:, who invented school homework, why teachers give students homework, the pros and cons of student homework, how to study smart and boost learning potential, 7 strategies to motivate your child to study more, listening to music while studying - does it improve or impede cognitive ability, student study planner and productivity apps.

This article was last updated: 31st October 2023

Homework's Origins: From feudal tutors to a 1905 Italian teacher, homework has evolved with public education in Europe.

Homework's Purpose: Assigned to solidify lessons and foster responsibility, with Australian Christian College using John Hattie's research as a guide.

Research Insights: Hattie indicates that homework's impact varies by age. Short, lesson-related tasks are most beneficial.

Pros and Cons: Benefits include improved achievement and parent-child bonding. Drawbacks cover stress and life imbalance.

Christian Perspective: Homework in Christian education aids spiritual growth and relationships.

Study Tips: Focus on routines, environment, personal learning style, and seeking help.

Stay Motivated: Craft study plans and maintain a positive study atmosphere.

More Insights: Effects of music on studying and top student planner apps discussed.

Dive deeper into the role, history, and challenges of homework with expert-backed insights.

Homework – of all the study techniques, there are few that divide opinion quite as much. From staunch advocates who’d like their children to have more, to those who’d prefer not to have any, school homework causes controversy year in and out.

The good news is that teachers are not flying blind. When it comes to developing important study skills, there is clear evidence about homework’s role.

Many a student has wondered about the culprit behind the homework phenomenon. An online search will lead you to Roberto Nevilis, an Italian teacher who reputedly “invented” homework in 1905 to punish his students.

The reality, however, is that homework extends way further into history. It’s impossible to know exactly when it started, but the idea of studying after hours probably dates to feudal times, when education was reserved for the wealthy. Private tutors probably assigned reading tasks to their pupils.

Homework as we know it today developed alongside public education, which began in Europe following the Reformation.

Ever since, opinion about school homework has ridden waves of opposition and approval, influenced by cultural and political agendas and popular thinkers.

The idea that homework was invented as a punishment might appeal to some students, but it’s more likely that it formed part of a study plan intended to practise and consolidate learning.

You might be wondering why homework is important, when your children already spend several hours each day at school.

It’s a question with many answers. Some reasons teachers give homework include:

• providing an opportunity for students to practise and refine their study skills;
• consolidating what students have learned during the day;
• encouraging students to take responsibility for their learning; and
• helping students create and follow a study plan.

While these might all be fair reasons, at Australian Christian College, the answer comes from the evidence. Australian researcher John Hattie – a professor of education at the University of Melbourne – has compiled the world’s largest body of homework research to date.

He found that homework has a more positive effect on achievement for students in Middle (Years 7 to 10) and Senior (Years 11 and 12) schools. For students in Primary, however, there was minimal correlation between homework and achievement.

Furthermore, his research indicated that, for all year levels, the benefits of homework were inversely related to the amount of time spent on it. In other words, the longer students spent doing homework, the less benefit there was.

Results from this research indicate that homework should be short in duration, linked to the lesson, and monitored by the teacher.

Hattie’s isn’t the only research. A study published in 2006 reviewed homework research conducted between 1987 and 2003. The researchers found generally consistent evidence for a positive influence of homework on achievement. They also confirmed Hattie’s findings of a stronger correlation for students in Middle and Senior school than those in Primary.

More recently, a  meta-analysis explored evidence for independent reading, with overwhelmingly positive results. They found that the amount of time a child spends reading independently is positively linked to literacy skills (such as fluency, vocabulary and comprehension) and long-term academic success.

Homework can also be a positive link between home and school and give parents an opportunity to be involved in their children’s learning – a factor with a strong positive influence on achievement. In a Christian context, homework can provide training in important qualities like diligence and self-discipline.

However, research has also highlighted some potential downsides of school homework. A 2013 study, for example, published in The Journal of Experimental Education , looked at the study habits of 4,317 students from 10 high-performing high schools in California. The researchers found that these students averaged over three hours of homework per night. While they displayed greater engagement in school, they also experienced more physical health problems, academic stress, and lack of balance in their lives.

More than 70 percent of them reported they were “often or always stressed over schoolwork,” with 56 percent citing homework as a primary stressor. More than 80 percent said they had at least one stress-related physical symptom in the past month.

The researchers, from Stanford University’s School of Education, also found that excessive homework prevented students from developing other crucial life skills. They were more likely to stop seeing friends or family, skip activities, and not participate in hobbies. The authors suggested that anything more than two hours of homework per night is counterproductive.

In a Christian school, teachers might give homework to help students develop their God-given talents. Some teachers might like to give homework to enhance the spiritual formation of students, such as memorising Bible verses or reading Bible passages.

Christian schools should also provide homework that encourages interaction with others, because God made us for relationships, not for isolation. Students, for example, might be asked to work collaboratively on a task, or interview their parents about a topic.

Following are some study tips to help your child establish positive homework habits.

Pick a place and time to study

Whether it’s in the bedroom or at the dining table, everyone has a favourite place to study. Ideally, your child’s study space should be quiet, comfortable and free from distractions such as television or computer games.

It’s also a great idea to study when you’re most alert. For some, this will be early mornings. Others will do better at night, but pushing it past bedtime will lead to fatigue and reduced concentration the next day.

Establish a study routine

Like any habit, developing good study skills takes practise. If possible, encourage your child to study a little bit every day. Regularly reviewing material aids learning and helps minimise the need for stressful last-minute cramming.

Take regular breaks

Rest breaks are vital, especially for older students who study longer. Spending too long on something can cause frustration and reduce performance. Encourage your child to get away from their desk and do something else that boosts learning, such as exercise.

Keep healthy

Your child will be able to concentrate better if they are well-hydrated and fuelled. Try to avoid sugary after-school treats that can lead to energy slumps. Instead, offer healthy snacks such as fruit, nuts, yoghurt, crackers and cheese or healthy home-baked goods. Keep a bottle of water at their desk for sipping.

Getting adequate sleep is also crucial for optimal learning and concentration.

Use their preferred learning style

Most of us learn best in a particular way. Auditory learners prefer to learn by listening (such as to a teacher or video), visual learners by seeing (such as watching something get done), and kinaesthetic learners by doing (such as making a project).

Help your child get to know their learning style and incorporate it into homework activities. For example, a kinaesthetic learner might bounce on a mini-tramp while learning their times tables.

Don’t get too locked in on these styles, though. It’s also important for your child to learn in different ways.

Encourage them to ask for help

While you want your child to become an independent learner, it’s important for them to know that help is available. Helping your child with homework is one way to boost your engagement with their learning, which research has proven to be beneficial for students of all ages.

If you’re unable to help, encourage them to talk to their teacher or, if available, an online tutor.

Remember revision

Regular revision is a great way to embed material and therefore recall it when needed (like in an exam). Some study ideas for revision include creating flash cards, practising past exam questions and doing quizzes.

You’ve got some study tips, but what happens when enthusiasm is flagging? Let’s consider some ideas for boosting study motivation.

1. Have a study plan

It’s almost impossible to be motivated when you don’t know what needs to get done. You could help your child break down their homework into manageable chunks. If they’re overwhelmed by multiple assignments and exam prep, perhaps help them map out a plan for achieving what’s necessary within their timeframe (it always helps to start early in the term before things pile up!).

2. Just do 15 minutes

If they have trouble getting started, have them set a timer for 15 minutes and explain they can stop then if they need to. Usually, once they get going, doing homework isn’t that bad.

3. Create a positive study atmosphere

Your student could personalise their study space to make it more inviting, by decorating it with photos of family and friends, for example. If they have a career aspiration, images that remind them of their goals are an excellent idea. They might also like sticky notes or cards with their favourite Bible verses.

4. Encourage effort, not perfection

If your child is struggling to understand the material, they might fall victim to negative self-talk such as, “I can’t do this”. Remind your child that nobody is perfect. Putting in their best effort is all you expect.

5. Allow for some fun

The after-school hours shouldn’t be all work. Incorporate some fun activities into the routine. Examples include TV/device time, a bike/scooter/skateboard ride, trip to the park or chatting with friends. Study breaks are a good time for fun, but beware of letting them go too long.

6. Remind your child why they’re doing it

It can help to set goals with your child and remind them of the bigger picture, such as getting good grades for university or working towards a rewarding career or honouring God with their mind. The opportunity to get a good education is a privilege not available to everyone. Encourage your child that they are blessed to have the chance to develop their God-given gifts and use them to serve others.

7. Avoid nagging

Nobody likes being nagged, and it doesn’t work anyway, especially when it comes to study motivation. Instead, acknowledge that your child might be frustrated by homework. Support them with some of the other motivation strategies listed here instead.

A common question is whether listening to music is helpful – or detrimental – to performing cognitive tasks like homework.

There’s no definitive answer. Baroque music has been linked with positive cognitive effects. In a 2007 study , published in the journal Neuron , researchers used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to analyse the brains of people listening to 18 th century symphonies. The Stanford University team found that music engages the brain areas involved with paying attention, making predictions and updating events in memory. One of the researchers suggested that “listening to music could be a way that the brain sharpens its ability to anticipate events and sustain attention.”

In a similar study published in 2009 , a researcher used fMRI to record the brain activity of people listening to excerpts from 30 different tunes. He found that the brain region where memories of our past are stored and retrieved also works as a hub linking familiar music with memories and emotion.

Music has also been touted to ease student stress, reduce exam nerves and boost performance. However, there is also evidence to suggest that listening to music can impair test performance . If your child seems distracted by the music they’re listening to, it’s probably not helping. If they are focused, that’s a positive sign. Some everyday wisdom needs to be applied here.

Study apps are another way to help your child master homework.

Here’s some worth looking into:

• Forest – this app, available for Apple and Android, is designed for maintaining focus. Whenever you need to stay on task, you plant a tree in your forest. The longer the app stays open, the bigger the tree grows. But if you leave the app (to check social media, for example), the tree dies.
• Quizlet – this app helps students practice and master whatever they’re learning. They claim that 90 percent of students using it report higher grades. You can search millions of study sets or create your own, plus games, flashcards, and more. Available on Apple and Android.
• Egenda – also available on Apple and Android, Egenda allows you to manage school work – including homework, assignments and assessments – from one place. You can add notes and receive reminders about what’s due by date or class.
• Todait – derived from “Today do it”, this time management app claims to help you “achieve both short-term and long-term goals for your life.” You can create to-do lists, receive reminders, work out how much study to do each day and get feedback on your study habits. Available on Apple and Android.
• Tinycards – this app by Duolingo claims you can learn anything with their fun flashcards. You can choose from their existing collection or create your own decks. Available on Apple and Android.

Remember, if you have any questions about your child’s homework, or need more study ideas, your child’s teacher is your best source.

Sophia Auld

Sophia Auld is the Editor of ACC’s blog. Sophia has a Bachelor of Applied Science from the University of Sydney, a Graduate Diploma of Divinity from Malyon Theological College and is currently completing an MA in Writing and Literature through Deakin University. Sophia has been writing since 2015 across a range of industries. Two of her children completed distance education through Australian Christian College. Sophia is known for her depth of research and accurate, evidence-based approach to writing. On the weekends you might find her scuba diving with sharks, bushwalking or hanging out with family. Sophia can be reached at [email protected] .

• (617) 964-3100
• (508) 975-4445
• Summer 2024
• EMChat LOGIN
• Tip of the Week

October 13, 2022

How to Create a Daily Homework Routine

By Adina Levitt, Instructor

Homework. Often a dreaded task students want to get through as quickly as possible. However, with an intentional and executive function focused approach, homework time can be a more effective and manageable process.

Here are 7 tips students can use to create an effective homework routine:

• Get situated in a quiet, distraction-free space.

As much as students may think otherwise, the human brain does not allow us to multitask well. Removing distractions from the environment provides students with an optimal space where they can fully attend to their work. Encourage them to leave their phone in another room, turn desktop notifications off, close extra tabs, and work in a quiet space with minimal visual distractions to set them up for a successful homework environment.

2. Set a timer.

Our attention spans are finite. As much as a student may think working for 4 hours straight is what they need to do to get that assignment done, our brains need breaks in order to function best. The Pomodoro Technique offers a helpful framework that maximizes productivity and supports executive functions of attention, motivation, decision making, and time management (25 minutes on, 5 minutes off). With an end goal in mind, students can engage in more focused work knowing that a respite is coming.

3. Make an agenda.

It’s homework time, but does your student know where to start? Have them consult their school planner or online school calendar and write down a list of the assignments they want to work on during this homework block. After creating the list, they can assign each task an order of operations. Some factors to consider when prioritizing tasks could be: when it’s due, how many points it’s worth, or the difficulty of the task.

4. Read directions.

Now it’s time to jump in! A thorough approach to doing an assignment involves carefully reading directions to understand expectations. But what does that really mean? Try reading directions aloud, underlining important information, and restating them using different wording. Rubrics also provide helpful guidance on assignment directions; Try turning rubrics into simple checklists to follow while working through a task.

5. Take a break.

When that work timer goes off, it’s time for a well-deserved break. Put 5 minutes on the clock and enjoy! Some break options include a movement break, mindfulness, a music break, or a puzzle break. A walk around the house or a snack break work too! When the timer goes off, set it for another work interval and repeat the timer cycle.

6. Review work.

To avoid careless mistakes, students should review their work by checking that all requirements (found in the directions or in a rubric) were completed. They can read their written responses aloud and redo their math computations as a check. Students can also check in with themselves: “Did I do my best work? Do I feel ready to submit this assignment?”

7. Hit submit.

Students have done amazing work up to this point, now let’s help them get to the finish line! Online assignments need to be submitted (hit that submit button!) and paper assignments need to be placed neatly into backpacks so they make it back to school on time.

BONUS TIP: Once a student has determined a homework routine that works for them, they can create a checklist that serves as a visual reminder and holds them accountable for following each step.

These tips will help students develop an effective homework routine that will strengthen their executive function skills and serve them well throughout their academic career.

How to Establish a Great Homework Routine

Are you tired of disorganization when it comes to your child’s homework? Or having to nag your child about when and how they will get their homework done? A great homework routine can put an end to these struggles. Establishing the right homework routine will create good study habits that will help your child from Kindergarten through high school and beyond. Here’s how to set one up!

Establishing a Homework Routine that Works!

1. Schedule Time for Homework

You probably have things in your own life, whether it’s cleaning the house, doing your taxes, or getting together with friends, where if you don’t put it on your schedule it isn’t going to happen.

The same thing is true for homework. If you want to establish a homework routine, you need to plan time for homework on the family calendar.

The ideal situation is for homework to happen at the same time every day. Whether it’s directly after school or after your child has a little time to snack and unwind. It should be part of the daily routine.

If your child has after-school activities that make homework at the same time every day impossible, make sure you still schedule time for homework. And try to at least have a weekly schedule that is consistent regarding homework time.

You’ll want to make sure you allow enough time for homework to be completed. Talk to your child’s teacher about their expectations for time spent on homework to help determine how much time you need.

It’s also a good idea to talk to your child about when they want to do their homework. Discuss with them what they feel is the best time of day for homework. This doesn’t mean they get the final say about timing, but older kids especially may have strong feelings about a time that works for them.

And when you choose a time, consider whether your child needs some food and exercise before they sit down for a long stretch.

2. Choose a Homework Space

Once you have the timing down for your homework routine, you need to consider the location. Do you have a designated homework area with desks and supplies? Or do your kids spread their stuff out on the kitchen table at homework time?

When you decide on the best homework space, you want to consider a few factors. Does your child work better when they are alone and free of distractions? Or do they need you nearby to help them with questions and encourage them to stay on task?

Some kids need background noise, others work best in silence. You may even need to set your kids up in different areas from each other if they have different needs for completing their homework in a stress-free environment.

Try to keep individual needs in mind when you consider the best place in your home for school work. And set your kids up for success.

3. Establish Rules for Homework Time

A great homework routine will include some rules for how that time will be spent. This may include rules about silencing cell phones and putting them away during homework time.

Rules around electronics and other distractions are some of the most important. Sure, your child may need a tablet or computer for their homework sometimes. But other electronics are likely to be an endless source of distraction.

Consider whether you need to set rules and time limits for breaks during homework time. Sure, kids may need to get up and stretch their legs or use the bathroom. But an endless stream of excuses for breaks won’t result in homework being completed.

You may also want to establish some rules around your role in their homework. Will you be checking their work to make sure it’s completed? Or will it be more on the honor system? And your child’s age will be a huge factor here.

A great homework routine should help your child work towards greater independence when it comes to school work as they get older. You can’t go off to college with them. So, as your child gets older, they should become more responsible for completing their homework with minimal reminders and check-ins with mom and dad.

Stick to It!

When you’re trying to establish any new routine, there is going to be some adjustment time. Commit to sticking it out with your homework routine, even if you face some initial resistance. Once the routine becomes a habit, it will be such a part of daily life for your kids that battles over homework will be few and infrequent. And your kids will be on the path to greater self-sufficiency and success with school work.

Share and join us on social media!

Daily Routine | An ESL Lesson Plan Complete With Games And Activities

In this ESL lesson plan, students will use the present simple tense to talk about daily routines and activities. Students will practice describing their daily routine while playing fun classroom games. All the materials for the games and activities in this English lesson can be downloaded below.

Materials for this lesson:

Daily routine | an esl lesson plan, introduction and warm-up.

Before introducing the keywords and expressions for the lesson, it is important to put the target language into context. A great way to do this when teaching daily routines is to ask the students about what they did before they came to school. Ask them what the first thing they did that day was.

Once you have a few activities on the board, ask students which of those activities they do every day, and at what time they usually do them.

Practice Key Words And Sentences

Using  these daily activity flashcards , introduce the key phrases for the lesson. Ask students to repeat after you and practice many times. Once students have practiced the daily routine phrases, introduce the key expressions. For example, 

Activity 1: Daily Routines Guessing Game

To play, simply show the video in class. There are 10 pictures of daily activities hidden behind colored shapes. As the shapes slowly disappear, students must try to guess the daily routine in the picture. When students are ready to guess, they must answer using full sentences. 

Activity 2: Daily Routines Board Game

Next, one student should roll the dice and move their eraser. Then they should make a dialogue with their partner based on the picture in the square that they landed on. 

Continue this game for 5 or 10 minutes, and the student with the most points at the end is the winner. 

Activity 3: Daily Routine Speaking Game

All students will start at level 1 (get up) and find a partner. Then with this partner, they should ask and answer, “What time do you get up?”. Students should make their own answers. 

When a student has advanced through all 4 levels, that student gets a point (or sticker) and begins again at level 1. After 5 or 10 minutes, the student with the most points (stickers) is the winner.

Review Activity – Ball Toss

Related resources.

Creating Effective Homework Routines for Kids

Learning doesn’t end when the school bell rings. It extends to the house, with homework being a critical aspect.

As parents, encouraging kids to sit down and focus on their assignments is often a challenge. But what if I told you that creating an effective homework routine could be your game-changer?

Understanding the Importance of Homework

Homework is more than just an afterthought of the school day. It plays a vital role in your child’s educational journey.

Developing Discipline and Time Management Skills

• Homework is a tool for teaching important life skills like discipline and time management, extending its significance beyond academic learning.
• Children learn to plan and manage their time effectively as they must evaluate task complexity, estimate the time required, and prioritize activities for timely homework completion.
• Regular homework routines foster discipline in children, helping them resist short-term temptations and focus on long-term academic goals, a skill that finds application in many life situations later.

The simple act of doing homework inculcates many skills in children, most notably discipline and time management. At first glance, it may seem that homework only pertains to academics. However, on a deeper level, it is a tool for teaching children crucial life skills that transcend the classroom walls.

Let’s imagine a scenario where your child has a math worksheet to complete before the next school day. In order to complete it on time, they must plan their activities, prioritizing and allocating time effectively. This requires them to exercise judgment, evaluate the task’s complexity, and estimate the time required to complete it. These actions implicitly train children in the arts of planning and time management.

Furthermore, having a regular homework routine instills discipline. This discipline is born out of the necessity to adhere to the routine regardless of their momentary desires. The child learns to resist the temptation of instant gratification, like watching TV or playing, to focus on their long-term academic goals. This self-discipline, once nurtured, proves valuable in many life scenarios, be it adhering to fitness routines or meeting project deadlines in their future professional life.

Enhancing Academic Performance

• Homework is crucial in enhancing academic performance, bridging the gap between classroom teaching and at-home understanding by allowing children to review and practice concepts at their own pace.
• Practical homework assignments enable children to witness theoretical concepts in action, such as observing plant growth to understand photosynthesis, which reinforces their theoretical understanding and improves their subject grasp.
• Regular homework helps counteract the ‘forgetting curve’ by forcing children to review and rehearse their lessons periodically, which aids in better knowledge retention.
• Diligently completing homework prepares children for future lessons, as they can comprehend new, related topics more quickly due to a solid foundation already laid by previous homework tasks.

Homework plays a central role in enhancing academic performance by fortifying the learning process. It acts as a bridge between the knowledge imparted in the classroom and the understanding developed at home. When children review and practice concepts through homework, they are essentially revisiting the school’s lessons but at their own pace and in their own space.

For instance, a science lesson on photosynthesis might seem abstract in the classroom, but when a child is given a project to observe and document the growth of a plant at home, they witness the concept coming to life. They see how sunlight, water, and air help a plant to grow. The experience reinforces their theoretical understanding, thereby improving their grasp of the subject.

Regular homework also helps in retention of knowledge. The ‘forgetting curve’ theory proposed by Hermann Ebbinghaus, a German psychologist, suggests that information is lost over time when there’s no attempt to retain it. Homework counteracts this effect by making children review and rehearse their lessons periodically, thereby helping them retain knowledge better.

Moreover, doing homework regularly can prepare children for upcoming classes. When a new but related topic is introduced, children who have diligently done their homework are likely to comprehend the new concept quicker as they have already laid a solid foundation.

The Role of Parents in Homework Routine

An effective homework routine is like a blueprint to your child’s success. It not only streamlines the homework process but also plays a significant role in improving time management skills, fostering discipline, and reducing stress.

Creating a homework routine is more than just setting a timetable. It involves understanding your child’s needs, identifying their productive hours, and ensuring a conducive environment for focused work. Here’s how you can build an effective homework routine:

• Understanding your child’s unique needs, learning style, and work pace is pivotal in developing an effective homework routine that caters to their individual requirements.
• Identifying your child’s most productive hours helps schedule their homework time for optimal focus and efficiency.
• Creating a conducive and distraction-free environment for homework, complete with all necessary materials, aids in promoting focused and effective study sessions.
• Setting clear expectations for homework, breaking down large tasks into manageable ones, and encouraging regular breaks can help reduce stress and keep your child motivated.
• Incorporating reward systems and guiding rather than dictating fosters a sense of responsibility and independence while promoting a positive homework culture through appreciation and constructive feedback can transform your child’s perspective on homework.

Understand Your Child’s Needs

Every child is unique in terms of their learning style, interests, and pace of working. Some children may work best in a quiet environment, while others may thrive with a bit of background noise.

Understanding these individual preferences can guide you in creating an effective homework routine that caters to your child’s specific needs. Some children are more sensitive than others. Finding how to work with sensitive child challenges can be another barrier.

If you’d like to dive deep into learning styles, please take a look at our article, Understanding Different Learning Styles in Children .

Identify Productive Hours

Children have different peak productivity hours. Some may be more alert and focused right after school, while others might work better after a bit of relaxation time. Pay attention to when your child seems most attentive and energetic, and schedule their homework time accordingly.

Create a Conducive Environment

A suitable environment is crucial for focused and effective homework sessions. This means a quiet, well-lit space free from distractions. Consider creating a dedicated homework station equipped with all necessary materials like pens, pencils, papers, and textbooks. Having everything at hand can minimize distractions and time wastage.

Set Clear Expectations for Homework

It’s important to set clear and realistic expectations about homework. This includes the amount of time to be spent on homework, the level of effort required, and the importance of timely submission. Regularly review these expectations and adjust them based on your child’s academic progress and other responsibilities.

Break Down Large Tasks

Large or complex homework assignments can seem daunting. Break them down into smaller, manageable tasks, and tackle them one at a time. This approach not only makes the work seem more manageable but also gives a sense of accomplishment with each completed task, thus keeping your child motivated.

Encourage Regular Breaks

Even the most focused children need regular breaks to maintain their productivity. Encourage your child to take short breaks after every 20-30 minutes of focused work. These breaks can be used for a quick stretch, a drink of water, or a moment of relaxation before diving back into work.

Incorporate Reward Systems

Lastly, consider implementing a reward system to motivate your child. This doesn’t necessarily mean tangible rewards. Simple praises, words of encouragement, or extra playtime can act as powerful motivators.

In conclusion, an effective homework routine can make homework less stressful and more productive. It requires consistent effort and flexibility, but the benefits in terms of academic performance and skill development make it worth the effort.

The Power of Guidance over Dictation

Instead of dictating what should be done, guide them to be in charge of their learning. This method nurtures a sense of responsibility and independence.

Promoting a Positive Homework Culture

Appreciate their efforts and give constructive feedback. Your positive attitude can transform their perspective on homework.

Building an Effective Homework Routine

A well-designed routine can streamline the homework process.

Designing a Consistent Schedule

Identify a suitable time slot for homework and stick to it. Consistency can foster a habit of doing homework.

Creating a Conducive Learning Environment

Provide a quiet and comfortable space with minimal distractions. This environment can enhance their concentration and productivity.

Tools and Techniques to Make Homework Fun

Homework doesn’t have to be a battle against boredom and monotony. With a little creativity and the right tools, you can make it a fun and engaging experience for your kids. This section explores a few techniques and tools that can help transform your child’s perspective on homework.

Embracing Gamification

Gamification involves integrating elements of game design in non-game contexts, such as homework. This approach can make the learning process more engaging and enjoyable. For example, setting up a point system where kids earn points for completing assignments can introduce a competitive element. Leaderboards that display these points can further fuel this competitive spirit, motivating your child to complete their homework efficiently.

Challenges or quests related to homework topics can make the learning journey an exciting adventure. Rewards, whether they are stars, stickers, or extra playtime, can act as powerful motivators. Through gamification, homework can be seen not just as work, but as an enjoyable game that stimulates learning.

The Power of Educational Apps and Tools

The digital age has provided us with numerous interactive educational apps and tools that can transform the homework process. These platforms can offer interactive and engaging ways for your child to understand and solve problems, making learning much more exciting. For example, apps that offer math problems in the form of puzzles or word games can help children grasp concepts more readily. Reading apps can introduce children to a wide range of books suited to their reading level and interests.

Harnessing Interactive Learning Platforms

Moreover, some digital platforms allow children to learn through videos, animations, and interactive quizzes, thereby catering to various learning styles. These visually engaging tools can be particularly helpful for visual or kinesthetic learners who absorb information best when they see it in action. It can also make abstract concepts more concrete and relatable for children.

Fostering Collaboration Through Digital Tools

Additionally, some apps and websites encourage collaborative learning. Children can work on projects with classmates virtually, exchange ideas, and help each other understand difficult concepts. This not only makes homework more enjoyable but also teaches children about teamwork and collaboration.

Handling Homework Resistance

Identifying the underlying issues.

Resistance can arise from various issues – boredom, difficulty, or lack of understanding. Identifying them can help devise suitable solutions.

Developing Problem-solving Skills

Teach them problem-solving skills. Instead of providing direct answers, guide them to find solutions.

Keeping the Routine Flexible

Adjustments for personal and family time.

Ensure the routine is not rigid. Make room for family time and extracurricular activities.

Addressing Unique Learning Styles and Paces

Recognize that each child is unique. Be ready to customize the routine to suit their learning style and pace.

Wrapping Up Creating Effective Homework Routines for Kids

Establishing an effective homework routine for your children is a multidimensional process that encompasses more than just academics. It’s about nurturing their discipline, boosting time management skills, and fostering a love for learning that transcends the boundaries of the classroom.

Understanding your child’s unique needs and preferences forms the bedrock of this process. With this understanding, you can align their homework schedule with their most productive hours and create an environment conducive to focus and productivity. Remember, it’s not about controlling their routine but rather guiding them to take ownership of their learning journey.

Breaking down tasks, setting realistic expectations, encouraging regular breaks, and incorporating motivational reward systems are key strategies to make homework less overwhelming and more manageable. Furthermore, promoting a positive homework culture where effort is appreciated and feedback is constructive can instill a healthier perspective towards homework in your child.

In essence, homework isn’t just about keeping kids busy after school. Done right, it becomes a tool for instilling crucial life skills, enhancing academic performance, and preparing them for the challenges of the future.

I'm Amber Crow, a mother of three and a coffee enthusiast. This is your one-stop blog for all things family - from educational activities for kids, family finances, to our adventures in camping and hiking. Join me as we navigate the beautiful chaos of family life together. Enjoy your stay!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment.

Recent Posts

What Is 11520 Education: Complete Guide

11520 Education represents a comprehensive framework centered on the total number of hours students spend in formal K-12 education. Basically, 11520 Education acknowledges each of the 11,520 hours as...

Educational Outdoor Activities: Fun Ways to Learn in Nature

Educational outdoor activities provide children with a unique way to play and learn. Moving the classroom outside allows learners to experience a balance between education and the natural world. It's...

• Book Lists by Age
• Book Lists by Category
• Reading Resources
• Language & Speech
• Raise a Reader Blog
• Back to School
• Success Guides by Grade
• Homework Help
• Social & Emotional Learning
• Activities for Kids

9 Smart Tips for Homework Success

Help kids manage their homework load with these strategies..

Even children who enjoy doing homework can lose their enthusiasm for it over the course of the school year, and find ways to stall or avoid doing it. But after-school study time is important, both for reinforcing the day’s learning and for lending structure to your child’s day.

“Homework isn’t just about academics,” says Karen Burke, SVP of Data Analysis and Academic Planning, Scholastic Education Solutions. “It can help students create routines and build responsible behaviors.”

Playing cop rarely works — micromanaging and nagging only make kids feel incapable or frustrated. Instead, think of yourself as a coach and cheerleader. 

“Generally, the idea of homework should be to help students set goals, build independence, and practice applying the knowledge they are gaining,” says Burke.

To help you get there, we asked teachers and parents to share their strategies for solving the most common homework struggles. These 10 tips will bring harmony back into your homework routine, whether your child is a kindergartner or 5th grader, perfectionist or procrastinator.

1. Do It Early

Give your child a time frame in which to get down to business. In your household, this may be before or after extracurriculars.

Work with your child to identify the time when their energy and focus are at their peak. This gives your child some control over their schedule. (Some kids need a longer break after school, and others need to start right away to keep the momentum going.) 

However, plan on 5 p.m. being the latest they can start their homework.

2. Phone a Friend

From kindergarten onward, kids should have a list of three or four classmates they can call on when they forget an assignment, or even just to ask a question. Study buddies can provide motivation for each other to get the work done. 

3. Collaborate to Build Confidence

When kids don’t understand a concept right away, they may feel like they’re not smart enough and start to shut down, says Sigrid Grace, a 2nd grade teacher in Michigan. 

Short-circuit negative thinking by sitting down with your child and figuring out the first problem in the assignment together. This should help jog their memory to complete the rest. Then, heap on the praise: “You did a great job on that one! Try the next one now.”

4. Change the Scenery

Sometimes something as simple as changing up their workspace can boost a child’s motivation and, in turn, their confidence. If your child has been working alone at a desk or designated study nook, perhaps they’d be more comfortable doing their homework in a public area, like the kitchen table while you’re preparing dinner. 

Conversely, if they’ve been working in a high-traffic part of the house, they might need a more private space in which to focus. 

5. Keep the Positive Feedback Coming

Younger kids need instant feedback, so it’s okay for parents of young grade-schoolers to correct mistakes, says Grace, the 2nd grade teacher. Follow this up with specific praise about what your child has done well.

6. Leave the Room

“Kids who drag things out are often doing so for your attention — they’re enjoying the interaction on some level,” explains Grace. “Avoid joining in.”

If you must stay in the room, have your child work in a spot that’s farther away from whatever you’re doing.

7. Beat the Clock

Sometimes procrastinators just need a jump-start. If that’s true for your child, try this: 

Set a timer for five minutes and have your child work as quickly and steadily as they can until the timer goes off. At that point, they can choose to take a short break or keep going — many kids continue.

“Racing against a timer gives kids an external sense of urgency if they don’t have an internal one,” says Ann Dolin, a former educator. 

However, a timed work session is not an excuse for sloppy work. Make sure your child reviews theirs before submitting it.

8. Plan, Plan, Plan

To get the most out of your days, include every appointment — from sports practice to meals to reading time — on a big calendar or schedule log and stick it in a central place where every member of the household can see it. 

If you know that certain nights present a conflict with your child’s homework schedule, you can ask for the week’s assignments upfront and work with your child to decide the best times to complete them, says Cathy Vatterott, a professor of education at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. 

“Teachers will often work with you on this, but most parents are afraid to ask,” she says.

9. Let ’Em Vent 

If your child is resisting doing their homework — or worse, is tearing up over it in frustration — soothe any pent-up worries by letting them complain. Listen, empathize (“Wow, that is a lot of work”), and state their feelings back to them (“You sound upset”). 

Once your child feels understood, they’ll be more likely to accept your suggestions, says Dolin — and better able to focus on what needs to be done.

You can also help by talking to your child about what they remember from class and steering them to the textbook. If they’re still lost, have them write a note to the teacher explaining that they don’t understand.

Get ready for your child to go back to school with our guide — it's full of recommended books, tips to help if your child is struggling with homework , and more resources for starting the year off right . 

Shop workbooks and learning kits to support good homework habits. You can find all books and activities at The Scholastic Store .

Sign Up and Get 10% Off Books!

Establishing Healthy Homework Routines

Homework kids don’t usually like it and not so surprisingly, neither do parents.

Posted April 1, 2014

Some parents do not set clear routines, rules, or expectations when it comes to homework. I call this permissive jellyfish parenting which often leads children down a path of late assignments, poor organization skills, and ineffective time- management skills.

Other parents hover and micromanage their child’s homework. In fact, a study by the Bett Educational Technology Tradeshow found that in one in six families, parents actually do ALL of their child’s homework. I call such “take over” behaviors, authoritarian tiger parenting which causes children to lack self— motivation , creativity , and problem solving. Children of authoritarian tiger parents often develop the inability to complete homework independently.

I encourage parents to be balanced authoritative dolphin parents. Like the dolphin, these parents use role modelling and guiding, to teach behaviors such as homework skills.

Here are a few quick tips from The Dolphin Way about establishing healthy homework routines.

First explain to your child the purpose of homework. Make sure he/she understands that homework is not about getting the answer right, but rather figuring out what you need to learn and what you already know. A major point of homework is to practice skills- so sometimes a wrong answer is ok! Plus, making mistakes instills valuable risk-taking skills, and shows your child that every idea – whether right or wrong – should be respected and thoroughly analyzed.

Children do best when their learning is fun and in the “zone of challenge”—not too easy, not too hard, but challenging enough to encourage problem solving and learning. If you feel your child’s homework does not fall in this category, speak with their teacher.

Allow your child to try their homework first before stepping in. If you do need to step in, help them break down a problem Instead of solving it. You can tell your child “I know it’s easier if I tell you how to do this, but that’s not going to help your learning. Try to spend a few more minutes trying on your own.” If you must, give a clue or small suggestion. As he/she progresses through resolving the problem, say things like “you’re really close” or “I can help you with this, if you try that.”

Encourage your child but do not give them excessive praise. In an experiment that demonstrates fixed vs growth mindsets and the downsides of “empty” praise, young children were asked to solve a simple puzzle, and most did so with little difficulty. But then Dweck told a few, but not all, of the children how very bright and capable they were. As it turns out, the children who weren’t told they’re smart were more motivated to tackle increasingly difficult puzzles. These children showed greater progress and interest in puzzle-solving, while also displaying higher levels of confidence . They enjoyed the thrill of choosing to work simply for its own sake, regardless of the outcome.

Although it may seem counterintuitive, providing non-specific praise for children’s abilities and outcomes seems to rattle their confidence. However, if you stress how a child arrived at an answer and not whether the answer is correct, he or she will be more likely to make the effort, take risks, and try new ways of doing things. For example, if you appreciate the effort your child put into solving a math problem, as opposed to applauding the answer, she’ll be more likely to learn from the experience and try it again.

If frustration ensues, make sure your child recognizes the importance of taking “brain breaks” and restoring balance with their thoughts and ideas. Allow them to get out of their seats, move around and take a stretch; these activities can help your child control their emotions and re-think their solutions to the homework problems they need to solve.

Try to have a regularly scheduled time and place for doing homework. Make sure it is quiet, has plenty of light, and no distractions such as the TV nearby. Equip that space with the basic materials such as a paper, pencils, and erasers.

Homework can be a wonderful thing, but it’s only one of many ways children learn. The best learning is learning that is fun, real life, trial and error, and hands-on—and a lot of that occurs during free-play so make sure your child has enough time to play too!

Shimi Kang, M.D. , is a psychiatrist and the author of The Dolphin Way.

• Find a Therapist
• Find a Treatment Center
• Find a Psychiatrist
• Find a Support Group
• Find Online Therapy
• United States
• Brooklyn, NY
• Chicago, IL
• Houston, TX
• Los Angeles, CA
• New York, NY
• Portland, OR
• San Diego, CA
• San Francisco, CA
• Seattle, WA
• Washington, DC
• Asperger's
• Bipolar Disorder
• Chronic Pain
• Eating Disorders
• Passive Aggression
• Personality
• Goal Setting
• Positive Psychology
• Stopping Smoking
• Low Sexual Desire
• Relationships
• Child Development
• Self Tests NEW
• Therapy Center
• Diagnosis Dictionary
• Types of Therapy

Sticking up for yourself is no easy task. But there are concrete skills you can use to hone your assertiveness and advocate for yourself.

• Emotional Intelligence
• Gaslighting
• Affective Forecasting
• Neuroscience

• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary menu
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Family Focus Blog

Top family blog by Nashville mom blogger

How To Establish A Homework Routine

September 21, 2022 by Scarlet

The school year has started. So has the battle to get energetic kids, ready to play after a long day of school, to sit down and do their homework. This battle can be particularly difficult with restless children. Here are some homework tips that many parents have found helpful to establish a homework routine that works. A homework routine typically includes several key elements to help students stay organized, focused, and productive. Here is how to get started.

6 Homework Tips for Parents with Restless Kids

1. Create A Homework Routine

A homework routine is a set schedule designed to help the child know what to expect. A homework routine makes things easier by creating a habit of doing homework at a specific time. The elements that make up a productive homework routine should include a start time, breaks at regular intervals, and a designated area in which to do the homework. This homework space may be the kitchen table, dining room table, or a desk in their room as long as it is clean and stocked with school supplies.

For younger children in elementary school the homework routine should be designed by a parent. By middle school the child may want to take the reins on their homework session with a little follow up from a parent. In high school, the homework routine should be designed by the student. However, if a parent notices grades dropping, they make need to make adjustments. For example, remove screen time from the school week if grades aren’t up to par.

Many children will want to have a break after school before starting homework assignments. After sitting still at school all day, I can see why. So allowing them an hour after they get home to play outdoors and have a snack is a great way to make sure they are prepared to start their homework. In this way, they will have expelled excess energy and they won’t have a hungry stomach bothering them during homework time.

Homework Routine Example

3:30 Child arrives home from school. 3:30-4:30 Snack time with active play outdoors when possible. 4:30 Child sits down at designated homework station. 4:30-5:00 Complete assignments. 5:00-5:15 Break 5:15-5:45 Finish any work due the next day and if there is time left, work on any long-term assignments.

The above homework schedule is for younger kids who can’t sit still and concentrate for long periods of time. Hopefully, they will complete homework within that time. If not, they can continue to do 30 minutes of homework and then take a break until complete. I would not let them play video games during their breaks. Save that type of sedentary activity as their reward for finishing completely.

A good homework routine should also include the elements below.

2. Help Kids Release Some Energy

Whether a child has a lot of energy or struggles with paying attention, providing an outlet for that energy will help avoid their impulse to get up and walk away. This can do wonders at helping a child focus on his or her school work. Try having your student sit on an exercise ball instead of a chair at the desk or table. Another option would be to tie an exercise band on the desk or chair where the student can pull and play with it with their feet. Or try giving them some chewing gum, which has been found to organize the nervous system. Whatever you try, make sure it is a small movement that can be done subconsciously, so your student is able to give full attention to their homework.

3. Provide Motivation

We all need motivation to get tasks completed, especially if the task seems difficult or boring. Avoid bribing or begging your child to do their homework. Rather, set clear ground rules for when they get home from school. For example, they can play with their friends after their homework is done. If your son or daughter seems to struggle with time management in particular, try setting a timer for 30 minutes. Then ask them to see how much they can get done before the timer goes off. When trying this approach, be sure the quality of the work doesn’t suffer. The time limit should serve as a motivator to focus and work in an efficient manner.

4. Be Available

Frustration at not understanding a homework assignment or being unable to get help can lead to stress and feelings of helplessness. The best way to help with this is to be available to your student as they are doing homework. In this way, they can ask questions and get help when they need it. If your child is unwilling to accept your help, they may benefit from a tutor . Or they may want to call a homework buddy who can answer their questions.

5. Tips For Focusing On Homework: Limit Distractions

Distractions are particularly problematic for kids with ADHD or other learning disabilities . Try to set aside a quiet room with few visual distractions for your child to work in. Classical music and white noise has been found to be helpful in some situations. For teenagers, take away the cellphone and social media until their homework is completed. Giving students a snack with protein and complex carbs will keep them to focus on school work not an empty stomach. Most importantly, when you establish a homework routine, keep the TV off.

6. Adapt to Your Child’s Needs

Every child learns differently, so the most important thing to remember is to adapt to your child’s needs when figuring out how to help establish a homework routine. Perhaps your child would benefit from online tutoring or educational math game apps  if they enjoy computer games. In addition, talk with your child’s teacher about the homework load. Sometimes the amount of time a teacher is thinking an assignment will take ends up being twice as long, so let them know if it is getting to be too much. For students with special needs, a continuing conversation with the teacher as well as counselors will go a long way to ensuring a happy school year both for the parents and for the child.

Gen Z is known as the “digital generation” and I think we can all see as parents how much they rely on devices. However, not surprisingly, Gen Z still sees value in using both analog and digital tools when it comes to learning and education. According to the Post-it® Brand Study, 93% of Gen Z believe students who write things down on paper get better grades. I have to agree from my own personal experience and from working with my kids to prepare for tests. We find that writing information down helps commit it to memory much better than just reading or saying it.

Conclusion on Tips For Getting Young Kids To Do Their Homework

Your homework routine should include some common elements: designated study space, consistent schedule, prioritization of tasks, breaks, use of organizational tools like planners, goal setting, and a support system. Parents, teachers, or tutors, should provide assistance and encouragement when needed. Turning off notifications, keeping phones away, and limiting access to distracting websites can help maintain focus during homework.

I hope you found these homework tips for parents helpful when assisting your child to create a positive homework experience. Working to establish a homework routine helps your child know what to expect and when. This helps them to create healthy habits with knowing that work comes before screen time but that active breaks are important too.

Related Posts:

Back to School Essential Oils Roller Blend for Kids

The Business of Parenting And Negotiation Strategies

How To Limit Screen Time For Kids (Without The Whining)

Reader Interactions

Alish shaikh says

September 24, 2022 at 6:05 am

Hi Thanks for this very extensive list of advice, tips, and insights. Keep it up.

Regards Alish Shaikh

Popular Posts

© Scarlet Paolicchi and Family Focus Blog, 2010-2024. Short excerpts of this family blog may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Family Focus Blog with link back to the original content. Duplicating a whole post is strictly prohibited.

Homework Routine for Kids

Home » Parent Press » Parenting Hacks » Routines & Schedules » Homework Routine for Kids

As someone who has worked closely with kids for years, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges they face when establishing a solid homework routine. Whether it’s the distraction of a favorite toy or simply the overwhelming nature of assignments, it can be tough for both kids and parents. A homework routine is crucial for a child’s academic success and personal development . This article will guide you through creating an effective homework routine that caters to your child’s needs, ensuring a smoother and more productive homework time.

Table of Contents

Why a Homework Routine is Important

A consistent homework routine helps children develop time management skills, increases productivity, and reduces the stress of last-minute cramming. For parents, it provides a structured approach to monitor progress and offer support. Moreover, a routine fosters a sense of responsibility and independence in kids, preparing them for future academic challenges.

Benefits of a Homework Routine

• Improves time management skills
• Increases productivity and focus
• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Encourages responsibility and independence
• Allows for consistent parental support and monitoring

Steps to Establish a Homework Routine

1. set a specific time for homework.

One of the most effective ways to establish a homework routine is to set a specific time each day dedicated to homework. Choose a time when your child is most alert and free from distractions. Consistency is key; having a set time helps build a habit.

2. Create a Designated Homework Space

Having a specific area in the house where your child does homework can make a big difference. This space should be free from distractions, comfortable, and equipped with all the necessary supplies. A quiet corner of a room or a desk in their bedroom can work well.

Goally | The Safest Tablet for Kids

3. Break Down Assignments into Manageable Tasks

Large assignments can be overwhelming for kids. Help them break down their homework into smaller, manageable tasks. This makes the work seem less daunting and helps them stay focused on one task at a time. For example, if they have to write an essay, break it down into brainstorming, outlining, drafting, and revising stages.

4. Use a Planner or Homework Tracker

Encourage your child to use a planner or homework tracker to keep track of assignments and due dates. This helps them stay organized and teaches them valuable time management skills. There are many apps available that can make this process fun and engaging for kids.

5. Incorporate Breaks

Sitting for long periods can be tough for kids, especially those with thinking and learning differences. Incorporate short breaks into the homework routine to give them time to relax and recharge. A five-minute break after every 25 minutes of work can be very effective.

6. Stay Involved and Offer Support

Your involvement in your child’s homework routine is crucial. Offer support and guidance, but avoid doing the work for them. Praise their efforts and accomplishments to keep them motivated. If they struggle with a particular subject, consider seeking additional resources or tutoring.

Handling Challenges in the Homework Routine

Dealing with distractions.

Distractions can be a major hurdle during homework time. To minimize these, establish rules for homework time, such as no TV or video games. Use positive reinforcement to encourage focus and concentration. Creating a distraction-free environment is essential.

Managing Homework for Neurodivergent Kids

Neurodivergent kids might need additional support to stick to a homework routine. Tailor the routine to their specific needs and preferences. For instance, using visual schedules or timers can help them understand what is expected and stay on track. Break tasks into even smaller steps and provide frequent breaks if necessary.

Balancing Extracurricular Activities

Extracurricular activities are important for a child’s overall development but can sometimes interfere with homework. To balance both, plan the homework routine around these activities. Ensure enough time for homework before or after practices and sessions without causing undue stress.

Maintaining a Healthy Homework Routine

Regular review and adjustment.

As your child grows, their homework needs will change. Review and adjust the homework routine to fit their academic requirements and personal growth. Involving your child in this process can give them a sense of control and responsibility.

Encouraging a Positive Attitude

A positive attitude towards homework can make a big difference. Encourage your child to view homework as an opportunity to learn and grow. Celebrate their successes and provide constructive feedback when necessary. Your attitude towards homework can significantly influence theirs.

Ensuring Adequate Rest and Nutrition

Good nutrition and adequate rest are essential for effective learning. Ensure your child has a balanced diet and gets enough sleep. Avoid scheduling homework too late in the evening when they might be tired. A healthy body supports a healthy mind.

Goally | Apps To Support Child Development

Looking for fun ways to help your child learn life skills? Try Goally! The Goally tablet comes with award-winning learning apps and video classes to help kids develop the skills they need to become independent with FUN & evidence-based practices.

Our apps teach executive function , language , emotional regulation, finger dexterity skills , and more.

As your child develops new skills, you can increase the difficulty level of the tasks in the app to challenge and motivate them even further. This helps your child grow and progress at their own pace, while also keeping them engaged and excited about their development.

Creating a homework routine for kids is a valuable investment in their academic success and personal development. Setting specific times, creating a designated space, breaking down tasks, and staying involved can help your child develop a positive and productive approach to homework. Every child is different, so tailor the routine to their unique needs and preferences. With consistency and support, a solid homework routine can make homework time less stressful and more enjoyable for you and your child.

Helpful Resources

• Parenting.com

FAQ’s About Homework Routine

Share this:.

Company info

Media requests

Our Services

Terms Of use

Privacy Policy

Our Website

Neurodiversopedia

Parent Press

Privacy Overview

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

🌞 Plan your family’s SUMMER RHYTHMS now!

• Getting Started
• What can I help you with?

A Mother Far from Home

Homework Routines That Help Kids Settle Down & Do The Work

🌞 A little planning now will save you a chaotic, fight-filled, over-screened SUMMER . Plan your Summer Rhythms today and make it your best summer ever!

Are you dreading homework battles? Here are some sure ways to get a happy homework routine. Kids will settle down and finish their work with these tips:

There’s nothing like picking up your beloved kids from school, seeing them smile at all their friends, wave goodbye, then get into the van and start complaining.

Fighting with their siblings.

Melting all the way down.

After school meltdowns are a Real Thing, mama friend.

What makes them worse? Having to get home and then… get them at the table to do homework. For goodness sake, mom life ain’t for the faint of heart. Here are some homework routine ideas that will help set your children up for success.

What's in this post...

Set up a homework routine work area.

A friendly work area can go a long way…

Some kids are better at focusing and getting a job done than others. Some can read a 500 page chapter book in the middle of the floor with barking dogs, yelling kids, the TV on, etc.

On the other hand, some need a space and a place designated for their attention and motivation.

Follow this checklist until your tidy routines become second nature.

The second one is me. So, I get it when kids don’t want to settle down and do homework when there isn’t a “homework safe” place.

• Pick a spot that is designated to do their homework, or a spot that can easily change into their homework spot when necessary (barroom desk, dining room table, corner nook).
• Hang a calendar set up, a jar of pencils, and a pencil sharpener. It doesn’t have to be fancy (although it could be). A homework caddy like this one will make it fun!
• Address the kids when school starts. Say: “I know you’re going to have some homework, let’s make a good spot here so you can do a good job.”
• Keep this area ready for homework after school. Don’t pile it full of other things or push it aside when life gets busy.

Here’s a child approved tip: have a fun/healthy/favorite snack available. Snacks really help!

Eliminate distractions during the homework routine.

This is also a case-by-case situation, but most kids will achieve their homework better when they aren’t distracted.

Being “focused” during homework time is part of a good homework routine. This happens when a child decides that they are going to get their task done without worrying with other things .

Other things like:

• younger siblings demanding attention
• their electronic devices
• what’s for dinner
• people coming & going out of the room

Follow my 3 step system to organize your mornings, afternoons, and evenings to minimize the chaos and micro-managing.

Work before play is the only way.

I talk about this as it relates to transitions. You know, when kids melt down because they have to go from something the love to something they don’t like .

Nobody wants to quit playing outside, put down their game, or come away from the TV to do homework. But, they would enjoy the fact that their homework is completed and now to the reward of ___________.

Flipping the script on “work before play.”

I would never say: “ You don’t get to do anything you want until your homework is done.”

Instead, I would say: ” After you complete your homework, you get to go have fun .”

Flipping the “work before play” script into a positive drives motivation and helps avoid meltdowns.

If kids know that your boundary has been set (AKA I can play after I get my homework done), and you don’t waiver from this, things will go smoother.

Motivate and monitor, but don’t do it for them.

Doing your kids homework for them not only hinders their independence, but also makes them lazy. And yes, parents really do this…

On the other side, some parents struggle with finding the time to help their kids because evenings are so busy.

I recommend something in the middle. This goes back to finding a location for homework that works well with your lifestyle and is right for mom and kids.

• This homework location has to be somewhere where you can motivate your kids when needed. There will be times when they have to be reminded to stay on task, etc.
• It also has to be somewhere where you can swoop in and help if needed. For example, possibly at the kitchen bar while you are dong dinner prep.

Always be prepared to encourage when needed. Sometimes just a simple “I love how hard you are working” will do the trick.

Be in communications with their teacher.

Kids love to know that mom and the teacher are on the same page. I am quick to email, call, or message one of my kiddo’s teachers whenever I have a question or concern.

This goes for homework too . Whatever it is, I know that communication with their teachers makes their learning processes smoother.

Here’s the truth: when kids know that you can (and will) speak with their teacher, they will be more apt to keep a healthy homework routine.

Create an atmosphere where mistakes are acceptable and effort is praised.

You’re going to see home homework assignments (especially in the elementary age) that make no sense to you. Just go with it…

Foster a homework routine that strives for 100% effort, not 100% perfection.

Now, math may be the exception because you want math to be correct. But, on most things… homework is about training in accountability and getting that little extra practice. That’s it.

Plus, when you’re both striving for perfection things can get frustrating. When in reality, homework isn’t about that.

Get my cheat sheets and find your family’s groove.  Chore, independent play, meal, nap, bedtime, and MORE routine ideas!

Aim for completion and participation, not perfection.

• Homework can be a bonding time when the stress of perfection is taken away.
• Your goal is to aim for happy camper participation.
• Get it done, go have some fun.

50+ Life Skills (By Age!)

Check off critical household, social, and hygiene skills for your child so they’re prepared (not petrified) of growing up!

Reader Interactions

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

My ROUTINE bestsellers!

Nurture & Play

Life School At Home

Chore Cards

If Mama Ain’t Happy

Parenting doesn’t have to be this hard, sample daily routines (by age).

Get my cheat sheets and find your family’s groove.  Chore, independent play, meal, nap, bedtime, and MORE routine ideas!

50+ Connection Questions

Pull out these fun connecting questions to share some laughs with your precious ones!

Use them at:

• as a “calm down” trick
• for dinner time conversation
• or any time the day is getting chaotic or
• you need a reset to connect.

Bedtime Brain Release Sheet

Don’t end the day with anxiety, stress, and a full mind .

This evening brain dump journal sheet will help you get in a peaceful mindset so you too can sleep peacefully through the night.

101+ 15 Minute Projects

In just 15 minutes a night (while you’re in your pajamas!) take your home (and heart and mind) from stressed out to organized.

Daily Mom Routines Checklist

Want your days to feel more peaceful (less stressful) with plenty of time to care for your littles AND for yourself?

Well, I’ve got a foolproof strategy for you and it’s this: ROUTINES 🕑

Grab your FREE daily mom routines checklist and begin uncomplicating family life today!

Family Rules Brainstorm SHEETS

Start brainstorming rules to make your family life more peaceful, connected, and strong!

Hi Mama, Rachel Norman Here

B.A., M.S., Routine Queen, certified sleep consultant, Language of Listening® parent coach, and *most proudly* mother of 5. 

As a mom of 5 kids, born in 5 years, I understand what it’s like for lots of small problems to take over, leaving you stressed to the max. With simple routines – for everyone – and life skills preparation – for the kids! – your home can be a peaceful haven, not a source of stress you are driven to escape.

Improve your English. Speak with confidence!

• Free Mini Course

• Posted in in ESL Conversation Questions

30 daily routine questions for English learners

• Posted by by Cameron Smith
• April 20, 2023

Daily routine questions are the perfect discussion topic to get your ESL students talking. Everyone has a daily routine. And everyone has strong opinions on what a good daily routine should and shouldn’t include.

Separate your class into pairs and have students take turns asking questions about daily routines in English.

List of daily routine questions

•  What is your typical daily routine?
• What time do you usually wake up?
• What does your morning routine look like?
• Is your morning routine different on weekends? If so, how?
• What is your post-work routine?
• What is the hardest part of your daily routine?
• What is the most fun part of your daily routine?
• What is the most relaxing part of your daily routine?
• What is your daily routine for dinner?
• What do you think everyone should add to their daily routines?
• What is one thing that you wish you could add to your daily routine?
• Is your weekday routine different to your weekend routine? How?
• What time do you usually start work?
• Do you prefer to walk or drive to work?
• What time do you get home from work?
• Do you eat dinner alone or with your family?
• Do you watch a lot of TV at night?
• How do you spend your evenings during the week?
• How do you spend your evenings on weekends?
• What time do you typically go to bed?
• Do you brush your teeth twice a day?
• Does your daily routine include any time for exercise?
• How has your daily routine changed over time?
• Do you allocate time for self-care or wellbeing in your daily routines?
• Have you incorporated any hobbies or pastimes into your weekly routine?
• Does your daily routine have a healthy work-life balance ?
• How do you stay consistent in your daily routine?
• Is a person’s wellbeing linked to their daily routine? How?
• What’s the best thing that anyone could do in the mornings to improve their wellbeing?

Want us to publish a specific group of ESL Conversation Questions or cover a certain ESL Discussion Topic next? Comment below with your suggestions!

Get free English lessons via email

Subscribe to my newsletter and get English lessons & helpful resources once a week!

Unsubscribe anytime. For more details, review our Privacy Policy .

I agree to receive updates & promotions.

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

Cameron Smith

I'm an English Communication Coach based in Vancouver, Canada. I'm on a mission to help millions of people speak English with confidence. Thanks for visiting this site! If you want longer video content, please follow me on YouTube for fun English lessons and helpful learning resources!

Post navigation

30 ESL conversation questions about social media

• Posted in in Reviews

The Best Books to Learn English in 2023

• May 12, 2023

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.