School is back in session, which means back to the weekday routines. Part of your weeknight routine may involve homework. For some kiddos, homework can be a struggle creating frustration for everyone in the household. Lynnae Glascock, clinical coordinator of pediatric therapy at Quincy Medical Group, offers these helpful homework tips:
- A designated homework station may improve homework success. A homework station should be free of clutter, noises, and without the distractions of television or video games.
- Monitor your child’s frustration and attention levels and give small breaks when needed. The breaks can include snack time, getting a drink, or movement activities and should not last more than five minutes.
- My favorite movement activities are animal walks. For a list of animal walks, click here.
- Jumping jacks, pushups, yoga moves will also work.
- Consider your children’s position as they complete homework. If sitting at a table, make sure their feet are resting on the floor or on a footrest. If your child is tired of sitting at the table, try having them lay on their stomachs and up on their elbows. For reading assignments, a comfy chair or beanbag may be beneficial.
- Lighting is also very important. Make sure the area has proper lighting without glare and reflections.
- If using a computer or another screen, make sure your child limits eye strain and fatigue by following the “20/20/20” rule. They should take a break every 20 minutes, stop for 20 seconds, and look at least 20 feet away from the screen.
- Consider the time of day to do homework. Some children perform the best right after they get home and others need a snack and drink before they can concentrate.
For more information on Pediatric Therapy services at Quincy Medical Group, call (217) 222-6550, ext. 3418 or click here.