Today, let’s talk about a topic that many parents can relate to: homework struggles. Juggling multiple kids, some with ADHD, and dealing with never-ending homework assignments can be overwhelming. But before we dive into possible solutions, it’s essential to understand that homework challenges are not exclusive to neurodivergent children. All kids can face difficulties with homework from time to time.
To shed some light on this issue, I reached out to two experts in the field: Emily W. King, a child and family psychologist specializing in neurodivergent kids, and Rebecca Branstetter, a school psychologist with extensive knowledge in supporting kids with executive functioning disorders. They shared valuable insights on how to best support your child and make homework a more manageable task.
Understanding the Challenges
Homework is not always developmentally appropriate, even for neurotypical children. The pandemic has also exacerbated the situation, as many kids have struggled to develop key skills due to the limitations of remote learning. For neurodivergent children, homework poses additional challenges. Despite having Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) that provide support in the classroom, they are often expected to do the same homework as their peers without any teacher guidance.
Homework requires executive functioning skills, which many neurodivergent children lack. These skills involve focusing, planning, following instructions, managing emotions, and having confidence and resilience. The ability to understand a task and actually complete it are two different things. Not being proficient in homework does not reflect a child’s intelligence.
Strategies to Support Your Child
If your child is struggling with homework, know that they are not alone. Here are some strategies recommended by King and Branstetter that might help:
Be a detective.
Identify the specific barriers your child faces when it comes to homework. Are they too tired? Is the environment distracting? Did they forget to write down the assignment? Understanding the root causes will help you find appropriate solutions.
Figure out what’s working.
Analyze the classes where your child performs well academically. What strategies are the teachers using that resonate with your child? Leverage those techniques and share them with other teachers.
Offer empathy and validation.
When your child gets upset or acts out during homework time, remember that their behavior is a form of communication. Instead of getting upset, acknowledge their feelings and offer support. Remind them that you are there to help them through it.
Replace nagging with curiosity.
If your child loses focus or gets distracted, approach the situation with curiosity instead of frustration. Point out what you notice and ask why they may be struggling. Understanding the underlying reasons can help you develop tailored solutions.
Ask for permission to try something new.
Instead of imposing solutions on your child, involve them in the decision-making process. Ask for their permission to try different approaches, taking their preferences into account. This helps them feel respected and empowers them to take ownership of their homework.
Make a plan, test it out, and evaluate together.
If you and your child come up with a strategy, use the “Plan, Do, Evaluate” approach. Try the plan, assess its effectiveness, and make adjustments accordingly. This collaborative process empowers your child to find what works best for them.
Help your child anticipate the feeling of accomplishment.
Kids with executive functioning deficits often struggle to anticipate future rewards, impacting their motivation. Remind your child how good it will feel to complete their homework and emphasize the relief they will experience afterward.
Consider alternative environments.
If your child has trouble focusing at home, explore the option of them doing their homework at school or after-school programs. Some kids find it challenging to transition from the school setting to home, so staying at school to complete assignments might be beneficial.
Adapt to their learning style.
While some neurodivergent children struggle with online assignments, others find traditional pen-and-paper tasks easier. Find out what works best for your child and discuss possible adaptations with their teachers.
Seek additional support.
If the homework challenges persist, consider reaching out to a tutor or educational therapist who specializes in working with neurodivergent children. Your child’s school or local community centers may offer free resources or recommendations.
Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to homework struggles. Each child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Approach the process with empathy and collaboration, acting as a partner rather than an adversary. Together, you can find strategies that make homework more manageable and empower your child to succeed.
FAQs
Q: Are these strategies only for neurodivergent kids?
A: No, these strategies can benefit all children who struggle with homework.
Q: How can I identify the specific barriers my child faces with homework?
A: Ask questions and observe your child’s behavior during homework time. Create an open and judgment-free space for them to express their challenges and concerns.
Q: What if my child consistently refuses to do homework?
A: Try to understand the underlying reasons for their refusal. It could be related to the homework itself, fatigue, or other factors. Communicate openly with your child, seek their input, and consider alternative approaches.
Conclusion
Homework struggles can be overwhelming for both parents and children, especially when neurodivergent kids are involved. However, with patience, empathy, and tailored strategies, it is possible to make homework more manageable and less stressful. Remember to collaborate with your child, respect their preferences, and celebrate their progress along the way.
Now that you have some valuable insights and strategies at your disposal, I hope you’ll find ways to make homework a smoother process for your family.
Related posts:
- Is Homework Helpful or Harmful?
- How to Push Back Against Homework
- How to Talk to Kids About Disabilities
- Why Kids Don’t Follow Directions
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