5 Ways to Make Homework Fun

It shouldn’t be a surprise that a word with “work” in it can inspire groans from both kids and caregivers alike. But, there are ways to make homework a fun and enjoyable process that can help support a lifelong love of academics.At Scottsdale Children’s Institute in Scottsdale, Arizona, our therapists consider several factors when helping children develop the skills they need for intentional and purposeful learning. We also understand that every child is different, so how they learn and what motivates them can vary on a case-by-case basis. However, one thing remains consistent with all kids: When homework is fun, it makes them want to learn.

Here are five simple ways you can make homework more fun for your child — and yourself!

1. Create a special workspace

The easiest way to make homework fun is to create a great space to study. This area should be quiet and free of distractions, so your child can feel relaxed and comfortable. To add some inspiration, ask them what colors they like or what images ignite their imaginations, and work together to decorate the area.

Once ready, be sure to have plenty of academic tools at the ready, such as paper, pencils, crayons, and markers. Ideally, your child should associate this space with schoolwork, not sleep or playtime.

2. Engage their senses

Spending long periods of time in one place can be hard for many kids — and adults, too! So try adding activities that engage your child’s sense of smell, touch, or sight to help them focus. This might include encouraging your child to use a stress ball or fidget spinner while studying, or playing white noise in their workspace if their workspace is too quiet.

You can also try turning a study session into an artistic adventure by painting math problems or sculpting letters from clay or playdough.

3. Turn learning into a game

Who doesn’t love playing a game? Now, thanks to a wide range of educational apps, you can make almost any subject fun, including math, spelling, and language-learning. And, you can still add the element of gaming to homework sessions, even if you’re limiting screen time.

Try creating flashcards or matching games, for example, to help your child learn new vocabulary words. Or, try singing songs to help certain subjects stick. If you can’t turn your child’s assignment into a game, try a brainteaser game, such as Connect 4®, as a pre-study warm-up.

4. Track and reward progress

Everyone loves to feel like they’re making headway, and getting positive reinforcement along the way can do wonders for morale. So, work with your child to establish homework-related goals with rewards they can look forward to each day.

Consider using a large board to track important assignments and post encouraging messages. These visuals can encourage your child every step of the way. As you mark off items, use stars or other images, so your child can see their progress.

5. Schedule “office” hours

No one enjoys working when everyone else is having fun. Instead, create a consistent routine for schoolwork, and consider working beside your child to get your own business done at the same time. Not only can this help you lead by example, but you can also spend more quality time with your child and answer any questions they may have.

For more strategies on encouraging a love of lifelong learning, book an appointment online or over the phone with Scottsdale Children’s Institute today.