Homework Hacks: 4 Ways to Study Better After School

Whether a student is in primary school or secondary school, homework will always be a major part of their educational journey. 

From set tasks given out by teachers to accompany in–classroom learning, to additional time put aside to study ahead of a test or exam, homework is standard practice in schools. It teaches students the importance of repetition and preparation, and helps them boost their memory skills to retain key lessons and information.

Although these benefits are well known, homework can still be an unwelcome extracurricular activity for both young students and older students alike. So, that’s where we come in!

Drawing on the experiences of teachers, tutors, parents and students, we’ve come up with a simple list of 4 factors to consider when engaging your child in homework after school. With these handy tips, we can make studying both fun and effective, and tailor it to suit all student’s needs and interests…

1. Fun Before Focus

Everyone’s approach to homework is different, but one of the most common practices is to get students to dive straight into their study as soon as they get home from school.

The main reason for this is to capitalise on the fact that they just finished a lesson and are most likely still ‘in the zone.’ Parents are often concerned that if their child comes home and does something other than homework, it’ll be difficult to get them back in the mood later on.

This might be the case for some, but many students would actually benefit from a break first up. After a long day studying at school, children and teenagers are usually tired and unmotivated when they get home – and that’s okay!

When they get in, try letting them eat, play, relax and unwind first instead. Once they have spent some time doing leisurely (or even vigorous) activities that they enjoy, then let them sit down and start their homework. You may be surprised to find that their “lack of desire” has disappeared.

For parents who don’t want their children to completely clock off from study mode, consider encouraging them to watch educational videos or play educational games. It will feel like a recreational activity, but there are still academic components involved.

2. Regular Routines

Like adults, children benefit greatly from regular routines and planning. Undertaking tasks in the same way every day turns it into a habit, and habits are great for ensuring something gets done and is done well.

So, firstly, make a homework planner and pick a time. Whether that be after play (as mentioned above) or straight after school, picking a time that suits both the parent and the child and sticking to it will help them stay motivated and feel in control of their study.

Then you should factor in time limits and breaks. Young children in particular find concentration difficult, and they can only really focus for about 15–20 minutes at a time before they become distracted. Older children can study for longer, but their commitment can wane, so planned breaks are just as important for them too.

Breaks are a good opportunity to have some food and water or get in some neck stretches, arm shakes and finger wriggles to starve off restlessness or discomfort.

Teaching time-management techniques like this will also stand them in good stead for work when they’re older.

3. Designated Study Spaces

Another way to maximise productivity and the effectiveness of homework is to create a specific space that’s just for study.

For a primary school aged child, that might be someone close to family, like a section of the dining room table, so they can get help. For high schoolers, their own desk in their room or a separate office area will most likely work best.

Choose a spot that is clutter–free to ensure minimal distractions, and comfortable so that they can study for decent stints at a time. There should be plenty of natural light, as exposure to the sun helps improve alertness and focus, and good air quality and ventilation.

Consider personalising the workspace with their own stationary, accessories and trinkets too – as a sense of ownership and pride is known to be beneficial. 

4. Online Sessions & Support

Students should always remember that homework isn’t a test, it’s an accompaniment to in–school learning. Therefore, if they need help completing their homework, they need only ask.

For many children, customised, one–on–one tutoring is a great source of additional support that is targeted specifically to their needs and strengths. A tutor will help them engage with homework topics and explore outcomes together, and they will reward their efforts as well as their results.

Regular tutoring sessions – say 1 to 2 times per week – can go a long way to building up a child’s knowledge base, as well as helping them gain more confidence in the classroom.

ThriveTutors is an Australian online tutoring platform created to suit students from Prep to Year 12. Contact us today for more information about our services!