Improving Homework Compliance

Dr. Carey Heller: clinical psychologist with The Heller Psychology Group in Bethesda, Maryland.

Getting children to voluntarily complete their homework can be challenging for some parents. For children with ADHD, learning disabilities, or other issues that impact academic functioning, it can be especially tough.

Here are a few basic tips to help your child complete their homework more easily:

1)      Devote a specific place for them to complete homework each afternoon (i.e., desk in their room, kitchen table, etc.)

2)      Have them make a list of all of their assignments and estimate how long each one will take to complete. Note the time estimate next to the assignment.

3)      Encourage them to determine an order to complete the assignments and stick with completing them in that order.

4)      Set a timer and allow them to take a 5 minute break every (15, 20, 25 minutes, etc.) when the timer goes off.

5)      Reset the timer when the five minutes is up and make sure they resume completing their homework.

6)      If they don’t understand what to do and you are unable to help them, encourage them to attempt to complete it to the best of their ability (depending on the type of assignment) and have them make a list of questions to ask the teacher the next day to ensure that they will ultimately understand the material covered on the homework assignment.

These are just a few tips.  Look at your child’s individual needs and develop a homework system that works for them and you. If you need further assistance, consulting mental health professionals, tutors or academic coaches, can be a great resource for developing a homework plan that everyone can stick with.

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*Disclaimer: The previous information is intended as general guidance based on my professional opinion, does not constitute an established professional relationship,  and should not replace the recommendations of a psychologist or other licensed professional with whom you initiate or maintain a professional relationship*

About Carey Heller, Psy.D.

Dr. Carey Heller is the author of the blog Practical Parenting Strategies. He is a licensed psychologist with The Heller Psychology Group LLC in Bethesda, Maryland. Dr. Heller specializes in the evaluation and treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), executive function challenges, learning disabilities, and co-occurring issues such as anxiety. With treatment, he often blends traditional psychotherapy with practical coaching to help individuals improve time management, organizational, and related study skills as relevant.

View all posts by Carey Heller, Psy.D.