homework rules - tips for parents

Tips for P5, P6 and P7

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How much homework should they get at this age?
At this age, the level of homework gets bumped up a bit. They’ll probably have at least 30 minutes a day of homework. This helps them prepare for the bigger workload they’ll have when they hit secondary school.

How much time should I spend helping?
When they’re this age, you should be stepping back a bit. They should be more independent – ask the teacher for advice if you’re not sure how much to get involved. Help a bit, just don’t take over! If they’re stuck on something, you could help out a bit and make suggestions or ask the teacher to give your child some help if you’re both stuck.

What sort of work will they be getting?
They’ll still be doing reading, writing and maths, but also subjects like science, geography and history. This gets them ready for secondary school and the different subjects they’ll be studying there.

What can I do to help them in school?
Talk to them about the homework they’re doing, and ask them questions about it. If they’ve got project work, ask them about it and try to get involved, if you can. Reading is good as well, so try and encourage them to read anything they are interested in.

My child won’t settle to homework…
If you have a set time for homework every night – say from 6 to 6.30 – then they’ll get into a routine. Don’t insist they start as soon as they’re back from school – give them some time to chill out a bit first. Maybe let them have a snack before they start so they’re not hungry and thirsty when they start.

My child can’t concentrate…
Having something to eat and drink can help here. If your child’s eaten a good breakfast, they’ll do better in class. Giving them their five portions of fruit and veg a day can help as well. Eating a pile of sweets can make them hyper – so try to keep them as an after-homework treat, if you can. Fish oil extract – OMEGA–3 - might help too.

We always fight about doing homework…
Well we have all been there and we know the theory If you get angry, they’ll feel stressed. It really is better to walk away and leave it until another time rather than losing it completely.

I haven’t a clue when they ask me stuff!
Don’t beat yourself up if you can’t understand all their homework. Nobody remembers everything! If it’s a long question, break it down. Are there any clue words? Can you work out what to do from them? Chat to your child and see if you can work out the answer together. If you’re both really stuck, tell your child to go back to the teacher to explain it again.