“I know. After sitting in class all day, probably the last thing you feel like doing is sitting down again and working on 10 long division problems.”
This is the empathetic way Adele Faber, author of How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk, suggests beginning the tricky conversation about hating homework. Then, she says, explain the problem and talk through solutions: “The problem is your teacher insists that everyone get more practice. So what would make it easier for you? Divide up the work? Do five problems before supper and five after? Or would you rather play first, and tackle them all at once? Or… maybe you’d like to try your uncle’s method when he was your age. He’d do one problem, [then] run around the house and do a bunch of jumping jacks between each question.”
Here’s how 4 other parenting experts say to respond…
Christine Carter
The Raising Happiness author and child development expert explains two surprising things kids need to focus on their homework. Format: Video (2:09)
Deborah Tillman
The star of America’s Supernanny tells parents to use this firm-but-creative approach to make sure your kids do their homework. Format: Article
Sara Bennett
If your elementary schooler is unhappy about her nightly workload, the author of The Case Against Homework says it’s OK to do the unimaginable. Format: Article
Madeline Levine
When it comes to homework troubles, the famed psychologist and The Price of Privilege author cautions parents against coming to your child’s rescue. Format: Video (1:20)
