Be honest, when your child announces that they have homework, do you feel your heart sink a little? Homework is something that all of us have had to endure, but even as an adult you seemingly cannot escape it!

Homework is an important aspect of your child’s education, it teaches them about priorities, self-discipline and how to work independently away from the classroom. You may not find the latest in the maths curriculum simple, but there are other ways you can help your kids with their homework and give them more confidence in the studies.

Wondering where to start? Read on for 5 ways to help your kids with their homework.

Have the right equipment

The kind of equipment you might need will vary due to their age and the type of homework they have. However, to keep things general, always aim to have a good supply of colouring pens, coloured card and paper, pencils, rulers, rubbers and mathematical equipment. You should also have a printer with a good supply of ink for any print outs they might need – you’ll find Cheap Printer Ink Cartridges & Free Delivery UK at printerinks.com. A laptop or computer and of course a strong wi-fi connection. All these things will certainly make homework time run a little smoother.

Keep them in a routine

Modern life is busy, so forgetting to ask your child about their homework after a hectic day at work is normal. Setting up an after school routine will make homework a little easier for everyone. Allow time for your child to relax after school, enjoy snacks and a little downtime, then sit together and go through their homework assignments. Alternatively, you could let them have their evening meal and then take a look at their school work – every child is different, so you’ll know what’s best.

Don’t share your frustrations

Maybe a difficult math problem reminds you of how much you dislike your old math teacher. Or perhaps you find English assignments incredibly boring. Regardless of your own experiences, it’s important not to negatively influence your child’s opinions and instead, try to create a positive working environment where they can ask questions and develop their own preferences.

Create a homework zone

Getting your kids to work on their assignments whilst the TV is distracting them or their siblings are playing noisily in their bedroom, will only be counter-productive and frustrating for your child. So, create an area that is dedicated to studying and completing their homework. Keep the area clean, tidy and well lit, with everything they need around them and of course, make sure it’s nice and peaceful.

Help them with tech

Studies are becoming more and more digitised. With online research projects and assignments written on word processors rather than the traditional pen and paper, it’s important to give your child the skills needed to be computer literate, to be able to research thoroughly and of course stay safe online. The more skills you give them, the more independent they’ll be and the more they’ll want to learn.