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How to Enjoy Homework

Last Updated: April 19, 2023

This article was co-authored by Emily Listmann, MA . Emily Listmann is a Private Tutor and Life Coach in Santa Cruz, California. In 2018, she founded Mindful & Well, a natural healing and wellness coaching service. She has worked as a Social Studies Teacher, Curriculum Coordinator, and an SAT Prep Teacher. She received her MA in Education from the Stanford Graduate School of Education in 2014. Emily also received her Wellness Coach Certificate from Cornell University and completed the Mindfulness Training by Mindful Schools. This article has been viewed 52,684 times.

Homework can often feel stressful and boring. Unfortunately, if you're in school it's a part of life. If you consistently dread doing homework, you should look into ways you can enjoy the task. This way, school will be more pleasant for you overall. You can start with subjects that interest you, give yourself breaks and rewards, and work on changing your mentality regarding homework in general.

Planning Homework Time

• It may help to take a few days to measure your natural ebb and flow of energy. You may find that, during late afternoon, you feel a sudden slump in energy. However, as it gets closer to the evening hours, you may suddenly have a boost in energy. Therefore, instead of doing homework after school, try to do your homework after dinner each night.
• You'll feel happier and more productive if you're studying during a time when you're experiencing a peak in energy. Homework will seem to go by faster, and you will not struggle as much to concentrate.

• You can alternate between subjects you like and dislike. This can help give you motivation while moving through subjects that bore you. For example, if you love science but hate history, do half of your science assignment, then half of your history one, and then return to science.

• Even small changes can make homework time more enjoyable. You could, for example, move your desk near the window. Natural light may lead to a more calming environment, and you can occasionally look up and enjoy the view.
• You can also think about studying outside the house. If you love hanging out at a local coffee shop, try doing your homework there. You can get a latte or a coffee as a treat as you move through your homework.

• You may have to experiment with different songs. Some songs may be distracting. If a song makes you want to get up and dance, for example, it may not the best to include on a homework playlist, as you will lose focus in your homework. Some people find that classical music is very helpful when studying.
• Not everyone can concentrate with music in the background. If you find music is making it harder for you to study, you may want to nix the playlists and focus on other means to enjoy your homework.

Giving Yourself Motivation

• Good examples of what to do during your breaks are taking walks, meditating, stretching, or getting yourself a snack.
• Many people find it's most effective to work in short spurts. You may want to plan to work in half hour to 45-minute intervals, for example, and then take a 5 to 10-minute break.
• Be careful with breaks, however. Make sure you time your breaks wisely so they don't end up running over. If you allow yourself a 10 minute Facebook break every 40 minutes, set a timer on your phone to make sure you do not end up procrastinating on social media for hours.

• Be careful who you include in a study group. While you want to be able to enjoy yourself, you also want to get work done. Choose people who are serious enough students that you won't end up distracted all night.
• Together as a group, you can brainstorm ways to have fun. For example, you can agree you'll do homework in silence for 40 minutes and then take a 15 minute break to chat.

• Be careful, however, not to do sloppy work. If you're trying to break a record, you may speed through your homework. Strive to work efficiently rather than quickly.
• Talk to your parents to see how the topic your studying may affect them in the present day.
• Be careful not to get distracted in this extra research or you’ll lose focus on your homework. Set a timer for yourself so you don’t spend too much time doing it.

Changing Your Mindset About Learning

• It can help to make a to-do list. Your studies are items you can check off the list, allowing you to relax and unwind. You'll also feel a sense of achievement with each item you check off your list.
• Stop and think about what you've accomplished when you finish your homework. Try to feel proud of yourself for getting your work done. You'll learn to work towards this sense of accomplishment in the future.

• If you dislike your writing assignments, pause and consider how good writing skills can help you get a job. If you dislike your computer class, try to keep in mind that basic computer skills will be important in college and the working world.

Expert Q&A

• If you have a friend who's a serious student, ask him or her for tips on how to make homework fun. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• If you are reviewing for a test, review it for 15 minutes then give yourself a break. Go back to studying for 15 minutes and then take another break. This method can help you to process the information, which in the end should result in better results! Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://www.pursuit-of-happiness.org/how-to-enjoy-studying-flow/
• ↑ https://www.oxford-royale.co.uk/articles/studying-fun.html

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How to Make Homework Fun

• Post author By admin
• September 6, 2023

Discover engaging strategies for how to make homework fun. Explore personalized study spaces, gamification, collaboration, and more to make learning enjoyable.

Hey there, homework warriors! Let’s face it, homework often gets a bad rap for being a total buzzkill. The mere thought of it can make us want to escape to a world of video games, socializing, or anything but those looming assignments. But guess what? It doesn’t have to be that way!

In this article, we’re about to embark on a journey to uncover the secret sauce of making homework downright fun. That’s right, we’re flipping the script and turning the dreaded “H-word” into an exciting adventure.

So, if you’re ready to banish the boredom and inject some pizzazz into your study sessions, keep reading. We’ve got 15 game-changing tips coming your way to transform homework from a chore into a choice activity!

Table of Contents

How to Make Homework Fun?

Have a close look at how to make homework fun:-

Design a Homework Haven

Transforming a corner of your room into a cozy study nook is all about creating an inviting space that inspires productivity. Consider adding a:

Comfy Chair

Choose a chair with good lumbar support and a cushioned seat for long study sessions.

Soft Cushions

Scatter a few soft cushions on your chair or on the floor to make the nook extra inviting.

Motivational Posters

Hang up posters with motivational quotes or images that resonate with your goals. For instance, a poster featuring a quote like “You’ve Got This!” can provide daily encouragement.

Set a Homework Schedule

Creating a daily study schedule tailored to your rhythm can significantly boost your productivity. Here’s how to go about it:

Identify Your Peak Hours

Pay attention to when you feel most alert and focused during the day. Are you a morning person, or does your energy peak in the evening?

Designate Prime Study Time

Once you’ve identified your prime hours, set aside that time for your most challenging subjects or tasks. For example, if you’re a night owl, designate 8 PM to 10 PM as your prime study time.

Set Goals and Rewards

Setting goals and rewards can turn studying into a thrilling game. Here’s how to make it work:

Task-Based Rewards

Break your study session into smaller tasks. For instance, if you have a 2-hour study session, set a timer for every 30 minutes. When you complete a task within the allotted time, reward yourself with a mini-break or a quick treat.

Dance Breaks

After accomplishing a particularly tough assignment or study session, treat yourself to a five-minute dance break to your favorite upbeat song.

Group Study Sessions

Studying with friends can make homework a social and interactive experience. Here’s how to organize a productive group study session:

Choose Study Buddies

Invite friends who are equally committed to studying. Avoid distractions and focus on collaborative learning.

During breaks, enjoy some snacks and refreshments together. It’s an excellent opportunity to bond and recharge.

Gamify Your Homework

Turning your assignments into a game can make them engaging and competitive. Here’s an example:

Math Challenges

For every correct math problem you solve, award yourself points. Set a target, like 100 points. Once you reach that goal, treat yourself to a favorite dessert or activity.

Use Technology Wisely

Leveraging educational apps and websites can make learning enjoyable. Consider:

Learning Languages

Apps like Duolingo and Babbel gamify language learning with interactive lessons and quizzes.

Science Simulations

Websites like PhET Interactive Simulations offer fun science experiments and simulations.

Listen to Music

Creating a playlist for different study moods can set the tone for productive work:

Upbeat Playlist

Compile lively tunes for subjects like math or science to keep your energy high.

Chillout Playlist

Use calming melodies for reading assignments or essay writing to stay focused.

Change Your Study Materials

Enhance your study materials with colors and visual appeal:

Colorful Notes

When taking notes, use different colored pens for headings, key points, and examples. Highlight important concepts with bright markers.

Create a Homework Playlist

Crafting a motivational playlist can boost your enthusiasm for study sessions:

Personalized Mix

Include songs that motivate you. Whether it’s energetic rock, inspiring pop, or calming instrumental, curate a playlist that resonates with you.

Relate Homework to Real Life

Connecting assignments to real-life situations can make them more meaningful. For example:

Applying Math

If you’re learning about percentages, practice by calculating discounts while shopping online. It’s a practical application of what you’re studying.

Ask for Help When Needed

Don’t hesitate to seek assistance when you’re stuck:

Online Tutors

Utilize online tutoring services like Khan Academy or Chegg when you need clarification on complex topics.

Celebrate Your Achievements

Reward yourself for completing challenging assignments:

Mini Rewards

After finishing a tough essay or solving a set of difficult problems, treat yourself to a favorite snack or a short episode of your favorite TV show.

Use Colorful Visual Aids

Visual aids can make complex topics easier to understand:

Timeline for History

Create a timeline of historical events using colorful markers and sticky notes. It helps you visualize the sequence of historical occurrences.

Stay Organized

Organization is key for effective studying:

Digital Planner

Use digital tools like Google Calendar or Todoist to keep track of assignments and due dates. Set reminders to stay on top of your tasks.

By incorporating these detailed strategies and examples, you can transform your homework routine into an enjoyable and productive experience tailored to your preferences and learning style.

These examples demonstrate practical ways to infuse fun and engagement into your homework routine, making the learning process more enjoyable and productive.

What are ways to make homework fun?

• Create a Comfortable Space: Design a cozy study spot with your favorite things.
• Set a Schedule: Stick to a regular study routine that suits you.
• Break Tasks Down: Divide homework into smaller, manageable chunks.
• Reward Yourself: Treat yourself after completing tasks or goals.
• Study with Friends: Make it social by studying with buddies.
• Use Apps: Try fun and educational apps for learning.
• Listen to Music: Create a motivating study playlist.
• Make It Visual: Use colors and visuals to make notes pop.
• Connect to Real Life: Relate homework to everyday situations.
• Stay Organized: Use planners to stay on top of assignments.

These simple tips can make homework less daunting and more enjoyable.

How do I make my homework less boring?

Want to jazz up your homework and banish the boredom? Here’s the lowdown:

Create Your Happy Place

Start by transforming your study spot into a haven of fun. Add some quirky decorations, fairy lights, or even a cozy blanket fort – whatever makes you smile.

Slice and Dice

Homework can feel like a mountain, right? Well, cut it into bite-sized chunks. Tackling one piece at a time feels way less overwhelming.

Goals with a Side of Rewards

Set yourself mini-goals and sprinkle rewards on top. Finish that math problem? Treat yourself to a victory dance or a mini snack party.

Study Squad

Invite a friend for a study date. You can help each other out and share some giggles during breaks.

Homework Gamified

Turn your homework into a game. Assign points or rewards for completing tasks. Hit a certain score, and it’s time to indulge in your favorite treat.

Dive into educational apps or websites. Learning becomes a blast when it’s interactive and entertaining.

Musical Motivation

Craft a playlist with your favorite tunes. Pop on some energetic beats for those math equations, or soothing melodies for reading assignments.

Colorful Creativity

Don’t just take notes, make them a work of art with colorful pens and highlighters. Visuals can make studying way more interesting.

Real-World Homework

Connect your assignments to real life. If you’re tackling percentages, apply them to calculate discounts while shopping online.

Stay Organized and Sane

Keep your homework organized using planners or digital tools. No more last-minute panics about forgotten deadlines.

With these tricks up your sleeve, homework will become a breeze, and you might even have some fun along the way!

How do I make myself enjoy homework?

Making yourself enjoy homework can be a challenge, but it’s possible with a few mindset shifts and strategies:

Find Purpose

Understand why you’re doing the homework. Connect it to your long-term goals and how it benefits you. Knowing the “why” can make it more meaningful.

Positive Mindset

Approach homework with a positive attitude. Focus on the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel when you complete it.

Set Realistic Goals

Break your homework into smaller tasks and set achievable goals. Completing each part can give you a sense of progress and satisfaction.

Create a Comfortable Space

Design a cozy and organized study area that you enjoy spending time in. A pleasant environment can make a big difference.

Mix up your subjects and tasks to avoid monotony. Switching between different assignments can keep things interesting.

Set a Schedule

Establish a study routine that suits your natural rhythm. Find the time of day when you’re most alert and use it for more challenging tasks.

Reward Yourself

Treat yourself after completing homework or reaching specific milestones. It can be as simple as a small snack, a short break, or doing something you love.

Stay Engaged

Try to actively engage with the material. Ask questions, discuss concepts with classmates, or relate it to real-life situations.

Study Groups

Consider joining or creating study groups with friends. Discussing topics and helping each other can make the process more enjoyable.

Celebrate Progress

Celebrate your achievements, even small ones. Recognize your efforts and improvements.

Mindfulness Techniques

Practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques before starting homework to reduce stress and increase focus.

If you’re struggling with a particular subject, don’t hesitate to ask for help from teachers, classmates, or online resources.

Visual Aids

Use visual aids like diagrams, charts, or flashcards to make studying more engaging and easier to grasp.

Incorporate Interests

If possible, relate homework topics to your interests or hobbies. It can make the material more relatable and enjoyable.

Use planners or digital tools to keep track of assignments, due dates, and progress. Being organized can reduce stress.

Remember that enjoying homework might not happen overnight, but by implementing these strategies and maintaining a positive mindset, you can make the process more enjoyable and rewarding.

How can I make my high school homework fun?

Making high school homework fun requires creativity and a positive attitude. Here are some tips to make your high school homework more enjoyable:

Personalize Your Space

Create a study environment that reflects your personality and interests. Decorate your study area with posters, photos, or artwork that inspires you.

Set a Homework Routine

Establish a consistent homework routine that aligns with your energy levels. Determine the best time of day for you to focus and stick to it.

Break Tasks into Smaller Steps

Divide your assignments into smaller, manageable tasks. Completing each step feels like an accomplishment and keeps you motivated.

Incorporate technology into your homework. Explore educational apps and websites that make learning interactive and engaging.

Study with Friends

Organize study groups with friends to tackle assignments together. You can explain concepts to each other and share different perspectives.

Gamify Your Learning

Turn your homework into a game. Set challenges, time limits, or point systems for completing tasks. Reward yourself when you meet your goals.

Create playlists for different subjects or moods. Upbeat music can boost your energy for math, while calming tunes can help you concentrate on reading assignments.

Experiment with different study materials. Use colorful pens, highlighters, or digital tools to make your notes visually appealing.

Real-Life Applications

Relate your homework to real-life situations whenever possible. For example, if you’re studying economics, analyze current events or business news .

Seek Support

Don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. Reach out to teachers, classmates, or online resources for clarification or guidance.

Celebrate Achievements

Celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small. Reward yourself with a treat, a short break, or an activity you enjoy after completing homework.

Use planners, to-do lists, or digital tools to stay organized and track assignments and deadlines.

Challenge Yourself

Set personal challenges to make homework more engaging. Aim to finish assignments faster or with higher accuracy than before.

Whenever possible, relate homework topics to your interests or future career goals. It can make the material more relatable and engaging.

Stay Positive

Maintain a positive attitude toward your homework. Focus on the sense of accomplishment and knowledge gained through your efforts.

By incorporating these strategies into your high school homework routine, you can make the experience more enjoyable and productive while achieving academic success.

In conclusion, making homework fun is not just a distant dream; it’s a practical approach that can transform the way you tackle your assignments.

By personalizing your study space, setting goals and rewards, collaborating with friends, and gamifying your learning, you can turn the once-dreaded homework into an engaging adventure.

Incorporating technology, music, colorful materials, and real-life connections adds an extra layer of enjoyment. Remember to celebrate your achievements along the way and stay organized to reduce stress.

With a positive mindset and these strategies in your arsenal, you can embark on your homework journey with enthusiasm, making it not only bearable but genuinely enjoyable.

So, let’s turn the page and dive into the exciting world of learning, one fun homework assignment at a time!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i really make homework fun.

Absolutely! With the right approach and mindset, homework can be an enjoyable part of your academic journey.

What if I can’t concentrate with music?

Not everyone finds music helpful. Experiment with different study environments to discover what suits you best.

How do I avoid procrastination?

Creating a schedule and setting achievable goals can help you stay on track and avoid procrastination.

What if I still find a particular subject boring?

Try to connect it to your interests or real-life situations to make it more engaging.

How can I make studying with friends productive?

Ensure that your study group remains focused on the task at hand and avoids distractions.

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How to Have Fun While Studying

Last Updated: July 24, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Jai Flicker . Jai Flicker is an Academic Tutor and the CEO and Founder of Lifeworks Learning Center, a San Francisco Bay Area-based business focused on providing tutoring, parental support, test preparation, college essay writing help, and psychoeducational evaluations to help students transform their attitude toward learning. Jai has over 20 years of experience in the education management industry. He holds a BA in Philosophy from the University of California, San Diego. There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 753,823 times.

If you find studying boring and difficult, why not make it fun? From making your environment more conducive to improving your concentration, there are various ways to make studying more than just a boring task.

Studying Alone

Studying with Others

Supercharge Your Studying with this Expert Series

Expert Q&A

• Take a glass of water before starting to read. Thanks Helpful 21 Not Helpful 1
• Plan something fun to do after studying so you will look foward to that thing. Thanks Helpful 16 Not Helpful 1
• If you are finding a subject boring because you are struggling with it, seek help from a tutor, older brother or sister, a parent, a friend or anyone you can trust to help you to learn it more easily. At college/university level, you may need to assess deeply if you have made the right choice or whether it would be better to change subjects or even courses. Don't despair - there is always help. Thanks Helpful 16 Not Helpful 3

• Don't ever promise yourself you'll just watch one show, just listen to one song, just check one email, or "just do one" anything. You'll end up losing track of time and get hooked into the TV, iPod, emails, or whatever it is. Thanks Helpful 148 Not Helpful 20
• For music: you can get too much into it and pay more attention to the rhythm than the study. Turn it off if this is happening to you. Not everyone can tolerate music or noise while studying. Thanks Helpful 14 Not Helpful 1
• Don't overeat to reduce stress and get adequate sleep during times of cramming, swotting etc. No need to make yourself ill - it's another of life's lessons about taking everything in your stride and coping well. Thanks Helpful 69 Not Helpful 25
• Note that if you have heavy, continuing stress, it could be time to talk to a doctor. Thanks Helpful 66 Not Helpful 29
• Don't get down over study hurdles. Everyone can have mental blocks, gets fed up and needs for time-out from any activity, even for a period of time. Be gentle on yourself, take a break and get yourself back together again before you give up on your studies. Also, seek assistance if you have special learning disabilities; there are excellent, trained assistants in many schools and universities on call to help out. Have faith - they're there to help you, not to tell you that you can't do it. Thanks Helpful 6 Not Helpful 2

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.unicef.org/serbia/en/open-digital-educational-tools-interactive-online-teaching-and-learning
• ↑ https://www.oxford-royale.com/articles/10-ways-fun-study/
• ↑ https://share.upmc.com/2019/08/healthy-snacks-to-power-studying/
• ↑ https://opentextbc.ca/studentsuccess/chapter/learning-environment/
• ↑ https://www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au/study-and-training/help-with-study/how-to-study-better/top-10-study-tips
• ↑ Jai Flicker. Academic Tutor. Expert Interview. 20 May 2020.
• ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-pets/about/
• ↑ https://health.cornell.edu/about/news/study-breaks-stress-busters
• ↑ https://usm.maine.edu/agile/using-flashcards
• ↑ https://www.utep.edu/extendeduniversity/utepconnect/blog/november-2017/4-memory-techniques-for-successful-study-sessions.html
• ↑ https://www.readingrockets.org/strategies/alphabet_matching
• ↑ https://learningcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/metacognitive-study-strategies/

About This Article

While studying can feel boring and difficult, there are ways to have fun while doing it. Try making your studying more like a game by using interactive learning software or having a family member or friend quiz you. If you’re creative, try writing a song about the general points that you need to study. You can also make some colorful flashcards that you can decorate during study breaks, or read your textbooks in a funny accent or weird voice. Another creative way to study is to pretend you’re the teacher and lecture your siblings or stuffed animals on your test material. To learn how to make studying fun with friends, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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28 Ideas On How To Make Homework Fun For Students

Do your children seem to need continual nagging to complete their homework? If your answer is “yes,” then don’t worry; we’ve all been there. Parents naturally want their kids to advance and do well in class, but after a full day of paper, pens, and books, many students won’t feel like doing their assignments.

No matter what the ages or grades of the students are, academic burnout may happen to any student, which affects overall learning and development. To solve this issue, we have brought 28 ideas on how to make homework fun and interesting for students of any age. Not only for parents but also if you are a tutor, these tricks and tips will come to your use.

28 Ideas on How To Make Homework Fun for Students

Homework enables the students to revise and evaluate the classroom learning and develops a habit of self-study, which in turn helps the students to score better. But it can be energy-draining, challenging, monotonous, and difficult to focus upon for students of any age.

Getting students to enjoy their homework and assignments could be immensely difficult at times. Especially after a long break or vacation, they find it difficult to focus on homework. Simultaneously, the importance of home tasks cannot be ignored. Wondering what the solution is?

It’s easy – why not make the homework fun and engaging? Yes, this is the ALL-IN-ONE solution to create a spark of interest in homework. There is practically a plethora of ways to let students feel enthusiastic while doing homework. However, not every strategy suits every student.

For instance, some students love to go outdoors and complete their homework or study amidst nature. On the other hand, some students simply want to stay indoors and complete home tasks in their study area.

So, while implementing a strategy or adopting ways to make homework fun and interesting, you must make sure you are doing the right thing for the right individual so that the student receives maximum benefits.

Here are 28 brilliant ideas that will guide you on how to make homework fun for elementary, middle, and high schoolers. Take a look:

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1. rewards are magical motivators.

It’s nothing new to provide children with little rewards in the classroom. But when it comes to the concept of homework for students, these approaches are rarely used. Instructors aren’t always aware of what’s offered or if it’s useful, and some parents may create their rewards. A great idea is to offer rewards inside the classroom.

Giving out vouchers, stickers, snacks, toys, or meal coupons that let youngsters earn money by doing their homework is something we advocate. The advantages of these magical motivators include having a friend sitting next to you in class, access to the internet, and unscheduled time in the classroom. If they link accomplishing their tasks to positive classroom experiences, students will be more engaged and motivated both inside and outside of the classroom.

2. Get Some Favorite Snacks

How to make homework fun and captivating? Let’s face the truth: A hungry student will be disinterested, uninspired, and miserable. Give them something healthful and palpable to eat while they do their schoolwork because most young kids are ravenous when they get home from school. Some options are apple slices, popcorn, grapes, crackers, flapjacks, and cheese.

If you want to attempt something a little more systematic, make a list of nutritious after-school snack suggestions and recipes and try them out every day. A delicious, crunchy apple is one of the healthiest nutrients for youngsters’ brain development. Some other nutritious and palpable snacks for students are Pancakes, Butter Popcorn, Fruit-flavored Yogurt, nut mix, sliced pears with ricotta cheese, Banana Smoothies, etc.

3. Beat the Clock

This is perfect for young kids who are reluctant to complete their schoolwork. Try it out, and you’ll thank us later. Young children like competing in races. By creating timed tasks, you may make schoolwork feel more like a race. For instance, keep track of the number of words they can spell properly or the number of arithmetic problems they can do in five minutes. Challenge your child to beat their previous best the next day.

To make it more fun, a little competition with siblings or best friends will work great. Nevertheless, make sure that the competition is healthy and doesn’t turn into an aggressive one. Often, students’ psychology works differently, and they tend to be violent in these kinds of situations.

4. Get A Homework Buddy

Allow your child to have a buddy or two over to study if they struggle with a particular topic or have difficulties concentrating in a quiet, empty room. If a second child is too distracting, set an example by helping your youngster. You may pay bills, prepare supper, respond to emails, or even work on a crossword puzzle or other mental exercise while they are doing their schoolwork.

Working on homework teaches children that work is a part of life, not just school, and fosters friendship without being overpowering.

5. Design an Awesome Workspace

Improve the area where your kids complete their schoolwork to increase efficiency, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. Have tools and materials available, such as cool notepads or notebooks, colored pens, highlighters, and sticky notes, to assist students in completing difficult projects.

Use calendars, whiteboards, chalkboards, corkboards, or even simply paper and tape to help them visualize and keep track of all they need to complete. You may also decorate it with art and other items that inspire you. For pupils older than 5 years old, you may also hang up some aesthetically pleasing motivating quotations and photos in their study space to help them stay focused and goal-oriented.

6. Make Them Feel Comfortable

The comfort level of the students is the first and foremost thing you have to take care of while making them complete their homework. Not every learner has the same comfort level in the same ways, and these levels tend to differ from one person to another. It’s the responsibility of a parent or a teacher to understand their comfort zone and then plan accordingly.

For instance, provide them with a variety of alternatives or let them design their strategy. You might also inquire as to what time they like to complete their assignment. You won’t need to repeatedly remind people of their duties if you reach an agreement.

7. Incorporate Intervals and Breaks

Some learners might be able to finish their entire load of homework in one sitting. If your class has any pupils that can’t sit still, think about introducing breaks into the assignment process. Weekly study regimens can accommodate breaks.

Give a food break, allow them to complete one level of a video game, or let them talk to a buddy during a quick break. To establish expectations for when and how homework breaks should be taken, teachers might talk about these concepts with parents and students.

This functions in two main ways. It first rewards pupils for finishing their schoolwork. In addition, it gives them a mental break so they can come back to their job reenergized and motivated.

8. Role Plays Work Wonders

Create your little school and let your youngster take the role of the instructor to make enjoyable learning-based games. Assume the position of the student, and have your youngster explain a concept to you in the teacher’s role. This game will help players better comprehend the topic and develop their logical and reasoning abilities. It works especially well with courses that call for theory, like science.

By letting your kid pick their favorite stuffed animals and playthings and placing them in their little classroom, you can make schoolwork enjoyable. Begin by registering, saying “mummy,” “gift,” “Mr. Teddy,” etc. Since kids love to pretend to be teachers, you’ll soon notice that your kid is becoming more self-assured.

9. Make Them Stay Positive and Focused

Ensure to keep the students’ attitudes toward school and the values of their schoolwork are always positive. To keep them inspired and on track, shower your youngster with compliments on how great they’re doing. If they are getting pissed off with the pressure of homework, make them understand its importance and how positively it can impact their learning.

Spend five minutes after each homework session going over your child’s accomplishments. Have a look at our selection of free-to-download home learning packs if you’re out of things to do. To keep them motivated, you can reward or recognize their achievements in front of their peers. This will not only boost their confidence but also will help them maintain a positive outlook toward homework and studies.

10. Take It Outside

Outdoor learning is one of the most feasible ways to do homework with fun in a natural environment. If the weather is good, create a cozy and safe study space outside and let the student finish all the homework outdoors.

Studies also demonstrate that being outside, nearer to nature enhances productivity. The fresh air can aid students’ attention if they have spent the entire day in a classroom. In between jobs, rewarding them with a brief game of football or Frisbee will keep them engaged. You can conduct some fun outdoor Math or English fun homework activities.

11. Altering the homework concept

Many kids feel burdened by their homework assignments. What if, though, you adopt a whole new approach to homework? It can be argued that schoolwork has a lot of unfavorable associations. These concepts usually start early in life and persist into college.

By referring to assignments in different ways, teachers can change these mental habits. Better ways to describe homework include home learning, brain workouts, and study time. You might try using these phrases in place of homework in the classroom.

12. Get Help If You Need

Homework can be frustrating if your child doesn’t understand the material or gets bored easily. Furthermore, excessive pressurizing or insisting on too much can mess up the student’s psychology. To be honest, in extreme cases, none of the methods will work. If your child or student is struggling beyond the normal limit, get them some expert help!

Education Advisors have plenty of advice for students who are not able to cope with homework. They also conduct counseling sessions from time to time in case it’s required.

13. Go for Audio-Visual Resources

Engaging additional senses in the at-home learning process is another technique to cheer up your boring assignments. Focus may be improved by using a child’s perception of touch, smell, or taste in a unique manner.

Sending kids home with instructions for making scented play dough, for instance, improve learning. The dough may be used in classes including math and spatial concepts. Plus, the aroma of scented/colored clays keeps kids focused while they work. Additionally, it enables children to link the smell to what they learned, improving memory and recall.

Another item that teachers might give their pupils as a take-home is a stress ball. Before, during, or after tasks, using a stress ball can encourage creative thinking and anxiety reduction positively.

14. Meditation Can Reduce Stress

Stress is not something that happens only to adults. With the increased competition in academics, young learners nowadays are suffering from severe stress, which ushers’ negative impacts on their mental health. Sometimes, both the little children and older students can’t express this stress and fail to explain how they are feeling.

Homework pressure often creates such challenging situations which disrupt the emotional equilibrium of youngsters. In situations like this, meditation can reduce stress and improve focus. Positive thinking, fear and the tension and anxiety that lead to depression may all be lessened by meditation. Being aware without judgment is one of the foundational elements of meditation, and this attitude of acceptance may ward against unpleasant thoughts.

15. Make It a Group Effort

Since time immemorial, team working is super effective for any activity. The same applies to homework as well. If students sit for the home task in a group, they will be able to wrap all the assignments up quickly.

Now the question is – how? Teamwork involves group discussions as well as brainstorming, which gives rise to new ideas. Students try to develop new ways to complete homework through mutual discussion.

16. Take Help from Learning Apps and Libraries

If your child struggles with their homework, it can be difficult for you as well. Games and visual examples in amusing math practice applications may be a terrific way to give your youngster practice with things he is having trouble with. Therefore, make schoolwork enjoyable for your youngster by downloading an app that simplifies the subject.

There are so many online applications and libraries that will help students enjoy fun and encouraging homework sessions. If the toddler or an older student specifically refers to a particular app or a website, talk to him/her about it properly. Then visit the online resource, and if you think it is a legit and helpful one, let your child or student use it during his/her homework time.

17. Tell Them Not to Take It Too Seriously

There are more important things in life than homework and grades. Too much focus on grades can affect your child’s love for learning. Think about what values you want to instill in your child and make sure the homework is not getting in the way.

If you believe your child’s teacher is giving out too much homework after you see your child demonstrate an understanding of the subject, don’t be afraid to voice your concern. Even if nothing changes, it will show your children that you care and empathize with them. That matters a lot!

18. Storytelling Can Be a Great Idea

Storytelling is a fantastic idea to make children complete their homework without facing any boredom. Especially for specific subjects like Math, History, and Literature, storytelling develops a context that allows the students to grasp things very easily.

If you find a student is finding it difficult to understand a concept and complete assignments on it, you can give a try to the storytelling method a since it works well. Storytelling has the power to captivate learners and keep them engaged irrespective of their age and grades.

19. Create A Homework Mood

Creating a mood for homework is a bit difficult for younger students but setting the right environment can help them complete the tasks as quickly as possible. However, it’s not an issue for the senior students but can be a bit overwhelming for the little kids.

You can select a comfortable location for them to study and use their favorite stickers, lights, etc., to decorate the space. Keeping in mind the results as well as their abilities to take the pressure, set goals and establish rewards. It’s vital to make them understand the goals and disclose a bit about the rewards but don’t let them know exactly what’s going to happen. This will create an enthusiasm to complete the homework in no time.

20. Turn on Some Music

The psychological effects of music are undeniable. Music brings concentration and helps to focus on a particular work pleasantly. Then why not use it for your children’s homework? Science dictates that music is the best aid for studying.

Play some soft music while the student is doing his/her homework and this will help to create an ambiance. You can also play cool, energetic, upbeat music since it radiates energetic vibes and the student will find immense energy as well as positivity to complete the tasks.

21. Ask Them to Do the Tough Tasks First

One more cool thing to try out is doing the tough tasks first. It’s a perfect strategy if the student has a list of various tasks of different levels of complexity. You will be able to realize how much time he/she needs to complete the tasks and edit afterward if needed.

Completing the more complex tasks at first enables a student to think and decide critically. The remaining time can be enjoyed with much lower stress while doing the easier assignments. If your child gets bored very quickly you can try this method out.

22. Get Creative

Wondering how to make homework fun creatively? Homework doesn’t sound exciting to students. To be more specific, solving sums after sums or writing science projects doesn’t sound fun alone. Rather, if you mingle these tasks with an artsy adventure, the same old boring homework sessions become interesting.

For instance, you can ask them to paint out the math problems, prepare a model for their science projects, or act a portion of the history or literature books. Some other effective ideas may include creating a range of paintings while explaining a paragraph to a child, making clay characters, and doing some moves with the music.

23. Doing Homework at School

Nowadays, as the syllabuses are changing, students have too much pressure from homework to deal with. After coming home from school, it’s quite natural for them to feel exhausted. At times it becomes impossible for a kid to keep their eyes open for homework.

The best remedy here is to complete the majority of their homework at school. Your child also doesn’t have to stay up all night looking for answers or trying to understand how to remember academic facts. They can use their free time at school to complete some of the homework to stay relaxed later. Also, completing homework with peers involves so much engagement and fun.

24. Ask Them to Work on Different Subjects in a Session

Are you trying to know how to make homework fun without putting in much effort? Plan a routine for your child so that they can work on different subjects in a single session. Try to mix and match the subjects to make them feel comfortable with the pace of the study.

Working on a maximum of 3 subjects a session will help a student to get rid of the homework quickly without considering it as a pressure. Ensure they are not in a rush to complete one subject after another. Make it as systematic and orderly as you can to avoid any unwanted confusion.

25. Get Academic Help

Getting a little homework help is a feasible way to make homework fun. Nevertheless, you must make sure that none of you, the teachers, or the program facilitators are not spoon-feeding them, or else it will affect the student’s development in terms of learning.

If there is a math problem that is too difficult to solve or a paragraph with heavy words, you or the tutor can give your helping hand to the student so that he/she can complete it on his/her own. For instance, you can give a clue to solve the sum or narrate the context of the paragraph.

26. Planning Is the Key

Planning is a powerful habit to make homework sessions fun and organized. Not only at school, but also this habit will help a student throughout his/her life. It’s required for a student to be extremely serious about homework in a studying period and systematic planning can help in completing all the assignments on time.

If your child is in high school or middle school, you can guide him/her to make homework routines. However, elementary school kids and preschool students need their parents’ or teachers’ assistance to make advanced homework plans.

27. Ask Them to Write on Their Favorite Topics

Working on something you love will make you feel more connected to the work. The same applies to both the kids’ homework and older students’ homework. If you are thinking about how to make doing homework fun, you can ask them to write a paragraph or a short essay on their favorite topics.

To implement this strategy, first, talk to the students on a one-on-one basis and try to know their individual preferences in terms of writing. Then assign them a task where they will write whatever they want on their favorite topics. This will act as a warm-up session before doing the homework.

28. Provide Choice

One of the key reasons why younger and older students become disengaged with their homework is they find it meaningless. This is where the mentors and the parents have to play the biggest role. They need to make the student understand why homework is important and how it can benefit them in the future.

This will make the kids’ homework sessions more engaging and they will be able to connect emotionally or personally. How to make homework fun in this way? It’s simple, provide the students with more choices while assigning the homework. For instance, if there is a tough project, they can choose to work alone on it or work with partners.

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Elementary school homework tips.

Homework gives elementary students a way to practice the concepts. But you have to be very careful while making them do the home tasks as at this age they don’t develop an understanding regarding the benefits of homework. To them, homework is just something that parents and teachers use to restrict them from doing what they want.

Below are some effective tips on how to make homework fun for kindergarten students.

• Make sure kids have a creative, engaging, and well-lit place to do the homework.
• Give the kids delicious snacks from time to time so that they don’t get distracted due to hunger.
• Encourage the children to complete their homework by giving them small rewards or recognizing their efforts to make the entire process more manageable.
• Instead of dictating to them what to do and threatening them, be a mentor, a leader, and a motivator.
• Create a homework routine for elementary students manually or use desktop app for planning your homework. Don’t forget to keep short breaks in between.
• Try to keep distractions to a minimum. This means no phone calls, loud music, and TV during homework time.

Set good examples for them but without comparing them with anybody. Have you ever seen your little one saving money? Point that quality out, praise him/her for it, and set it as an example.

Middle School Homework Tips

Middle school students develop a fair understanding of the importance of homework. So, you are not supposed to face much trouble to make them complete their tasks. Check out these middle school homework tips below. These tips will work wonders if you are looking for ways to make homework fun for 7th graders or 8th graders.

• Designate a specific amount of time for homework. This will help them to complete work on time.
• Help them prioritize which tasks to do on a priority basis. In this way, they will develop the ability to make decisions.
• Continuously encourage them to evaluate their work so that they can find the mistakes and correct them on their own.
• Put away the phone to prevent them from being distracted from time to time.
• When needed, help them to complete homework instead of spoon-feeding the whole thing. Give clues to solve a sum, point out some important areas, or explain them in a paragraph so that they can complete the next tasks by themselves.
• Don’t pressurize or force yourself to do homework. Parents need to know when to stop, especially when they are feeling exhausted, frustrated, and confused.

High School Homework Tips

When it comes to homework, high school students are better able to manage their time, stay focused and finish their tasks. This enables them to understand the value of homework. They don’t do any tantrums and get less distracted because they understand the consequences of not completing home tasks on time. But if you want to know how to make homework more enjoyable for high school students throughout the school year, here are some effective tips:

• Tell them to write down their homework every day in a notebook, or a planner to keep it more organized.
• Ask them to write their homework with a blue pen on a white sheet to remember their writing. Also, it’s the best combo to do homework faster.
• Help your teens to divide their homework schedule in a planned way and keep short breaks to freshen up their minds. For instance, if they work for 30 minutes, they can take a 5 minutes break.
• Doing homework with buddies is a proven method to complete homework on time and also in an accurate manner.
• If they get stuck while doing any specific homework, ask them to take help from online resources, libraries, video demonstrations, and journals.

Homework Dos and Don’ts

Let’s face it – nobody loves homework although it’s super important for your child’s learning and development. While high school students understand the importance and need of doing school assignments at home, elementary and preschool children can’t develop the understanding at their age.

Several things are to be kept in mind while expecting homework from students in proper time. To make the students complete their homework happily, we have brought some amazing dos and don’ts that parents or teachers need to follow:

Homework Do’s

1. monitor the answers.

After your child has completed his/her homework, check it once to find what went right and what went wrong. If you find any mistake in his/her work, try not to point that out directly. Instead, give your youngster clues so that he/she can find out the mistakes now.

2. Remove the Distractions

Thinking about how to make homework more fun for your child? Remove the distractions from the study room first including social media on the computer, mobile phones, unnecessary toys, etc. Remember, a decluttered environment is the reason behind a decluttered head. They will be able to focus more on the homework when there isn’t a pile of distractions around them.

3. Be A Cheerleader

Always be your child’s motivator when he/she is doing homework. Students may not be correct always but humiliating them may make them demotivated and frustrated at the same time. Celebrate small successes such as completion of the tasks within time, the maximum number of correct answers, the maximum time the child has devoted to homework, etc. Give treats like candies, stickers, pens/pencils, and colored boxes to celebrate their success.

4. Work in Collaboration

The parents and the children need to work together in terms of homework. There must be a proper channel of communication between both parties so that the child’s overall performance can be monitored.

Homework Don’ts

1. don’t force them to homework.

Forcing a student to do the homework can bring immensely negative results. Children won’t like homework – it’s quite normal but forcefully making them do it is tremendously fatal as it will develop a permanent fear or discomfort that will hamper their overall growth.

2. Don’t Show Them Your Frustration

Kids have a lot of tantrums. Especially, the tantrums increase while doing homework. Often teachers and parents get frustrated but showing them the frustration is not at all a good idea. Not only will the child become stubborn but also, they will develop a fear of doing assignments or getting help from you. If you want to make homework fun for 6th graders or students of any other grades, don’t show your frustration in front of them.

3. Don’t Compare with Their Peers

Comparison is something that demotivates a child to a great extent. It develops a deep resentment in their mind which doesn’t fade away even after growing older. Comparing their grades or skills with their peers is probably the worst idea to make students do homework.

4. Don’t Keep Electronic Devices in Front of Them

Yes, you can give the students electronic gadgets for a few minutes as small rewards but don’t keep the devices in front of them all the time when they are doing homework. This may loosen their concentration and will make them distracted from their respective tasks.

How A Homework Planning App Can Help a Student?

A homework app is the best time-management tool that enables students to organize everything they need to do throughout a week, month, academic year, or semester. It’s an easy way to keep your homework sessions organized. In case you are still thinking about how to make homework fun for your child, software with proper features of homework planning can help him/her out.

The academic pressure on school children sometimes becomes too difficult to handle, especially when there is so much to do. This is where student planners for their home assignments are found to be beneficial. Here is an explanation of how an efficient home assignment planning tool can help students finish their tasks on time:

1. Gives Students A Break

It might also be helpful to make sure that kids have some downtime to unwind and not become overburdened with assignments. If teachers are assigning homework through software, they will see how long a piece of homework will take to be completed, and they can allocate the tasks accordingly scheduling breaks in between.

2. Reduces Stress

Homework pressure may not sound like a big deal to you because you have already left those days behind but to your child, it’s a headache. The fear of being scolded by parents/teachers is one of their biggest concerns to them. Thanks to digital planners, these tools know exactly how to help each student in a customized way.

3. Increases Productivity

How to make homework interesting? Students who use a school planner are more productive and can manage their time more effectively. Students today struggle with procrastination because the internet age offers so many diversions. However, if they have noted down the tasks they must complete, they will be more motivated to complete them.

4. Easier for Parents and Teachers

A homework app with intuitive features of planning helps to complete an assignment within time in a systematic manner. Younger students who still rely on the help of their parents and teachers to do their schoolwork often fail to inform them about their homework status. Having homework software can easily sort this problem out and reduces mentors’ work and hassle.

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How to make homework fun with clarifi.

To assist students to achieve their highest potential, Clarifi is a homework software that acts as an ideal digital homework attention coach. We are dedicated to helping students achieve their academic goals. The pupils may complete their homework independently with the help of this digital planning app for homework.

It is a straightforward and uncomplicated desktop program that gives them more confidence to finish their assignment as quickly and effectively as possible. It is the only research-backed desktop application that enables children who are easily distracted to do their schoolwork without a parent watching over them. Monitoring student behavior is the only way to be sure they are doing their assignments.

However, keeping track of pupils’ activity is a time-consuming and important duty. However, Clarifi is available to make this procedure as easy as possible. With the aid of this program, students can effortlessly enter each homework assignment and keep track of the due dates for each one based on the class or the current day.

They receive prizes from the automated coach for maintaining concentration and doing their homework. When all pupils turn in their schoolwork on time, they will receive diamonds as a reward. This element motivates pupils to develop the positive habit of finishing their home assignments on time. Clarifi is an easy digital homework attention planner that provides kids with the ability to filter out distractions, improve their executive functioning, and keep all of their assignments organized in one location.

Clarifi guarantees to raise their capacity for concentration and focus as well as their academic performance. It incorporates functions that provide users the means to remain centered, motivated, and organized while finishing their schoolwork on their own. When kids use the app, it is specially designed with cutting-edge technology that blocks all other apps.

Generating an undistracted and focused environment for students with Clarifi is the answer to “how to make homework less boring.”

Students Can Now Complete Homework with Fun!

With these tricks and tips, students can now efficiently engage themselves in homework. Learners need to study and complete their homework/assignments with a positive mindset and not forcefully. As soon as a student starts doing his/her homework strenuously, the interest is eventually lost, leading to mistakes and burnout.

But with the tricks mentioned above, homework sessions can now be immensely fun and interesting. Whether you are a teacher, parent, or student, these are some tried and tested ways to complete home tasks engagingly. Stay tuned to Clarifi for similar informative blogs like this. If to need help with your children’s homework and know more about how to make homework fun get in touch with Clarifi today.

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How to make homework fun – 9 ways to switch things up.

Homework.  This word holds different associations for different people. As a teacher, I’ve heard all sorts of opinions on the topic of homework and have been informed about all of the negative aspects of assigning homework for students. However, I don’t believe that setting homework is necessarily a bad choice. Not when it’s done correctly. Also, many schools still require that homework is set for students.

So, as teachers, how can we make sure we are approaching homework the right way, in order to provide enriching opportunities for student learning to take place? Well, here are a few simple ideas to get you started:

Use Task Cards

Task cards are so versatile and are the easiest way to get the same content out to your students that you would put on a worksheet, but in a more interesting format.

Here’s an example of how you can use them for homework. Say you’re working on revising perimeter with your students. Instead of giving them a quiz worksheet, break the questions up into task cards. Create a game out of the cards and ask them to complete a recording sheet as they work through the cards. Hey, presto! You’ve now got the student data you need to assess their knowledge of perimeter, all while your students have had fun playing a game with the task cards you sent them home with. Now, that’s a win-win. 

If you are working on perimeter with your students, but you’re thinking you don’t have time to put together your own task cards – you can get my   ready-to-use Perimeter Task Card Set here !

Playing games is an effective way to keep students engaged in a task, and there are many fun games that you can use as homework activities. A great part about sending games home with kids for homework is that it encourages parents to get involved in their children’s learning. For example, if you’re having students work on their times table facts, you can use a game like  Times Table Bingo . This game is simple for students and parents to understand the rules of, and it allows children to use the strategies that they find most helpful for working out the times table facts.  

Make It Personal

Do you know what we all love talking about? Ourselves. Yep, and our students are no different. If you want to get them interested in homework again, give them a chance to share something about themselves. This not only keeps them engaged, but it also helps you get to know them better! If you’re after some resources that provide opportunities to get to know your students, I have a  Getting to Know You Bundle available here.

Try Puzzles

Puzzles are such a fun educational tool! They can be used for almost any subject area and are especially easy to incorporate into your homework routine. One way this can be done is by using addition  puzzles . In the example shown below, students need to use their addition skills to put three numbers together that equal one hundred. You can adapt this strategy as you need to so that the puzzles focus on whichever learning area your students are spending their homework time on.

Set a Challenge

Setting a learning challenge can be a helpful motivator for kids. I have often used   holiday challenges   like the one shown below with my students, but there’s no need to wait until the holidays! Think of some different activities that suit the topics you’re covering in class and put together a challenge for your students to work on during their homework time. If you want to save yourself some planning time, I have some ready-made maths and literacy challenges available here .  

Make It Practical

Have you tried asking your students to do everyday tasks for homework, such as cooking? This is a great way to engage those learners who find it difficult to sit still and focus for long periods of time. Plus, it encourages parents to get involved too! If you want to give this a try, you can start with  part 2 of my Cooking With Maths series , which involves calculating the ingredients needed to bake some yummy vanilla cupcakes!

Utilise Student Choice Boards

I’m an advocate for using student choice boards in the classroom, which is why I often talk about them in my posts. The great thing about choice boards is that you can easily combine more than one subject area in the one board and can switch up the options as often as you like. If you’re after some choice boards for upper primary / elementary students, I have a bundled set available here . 

Remember That Less is More

When it comes to homework, teachers and students can tend to overcomplicate things. Although it can be tempting to pack as much into your homework routine as possible, homework is often much more effective when it is simple. Choose one or two activities that are easy for students to understand and let them spend their time on that. Remember that sometimes less is more.  

Give Your Students The Night Off

Every now and then there will be times when you and your students just need the night off. That’s when I like to use tokens like these  sweet ‘No Homework’ Passes   to make a night of no homework seem like a special, well-earned treat for students. Although, when your homework activities are as fun as the ideas above, your students might be a little disappointed to have the night off anyway!

I hope that these ideas inspire you to try something new with your homework routine. You can use the links to buy your own copies of any resources I’ve referenced in this blog post. 

P.S. I love to hear how my tips and resources are helping you in your teaching, so leave a comment to let me know!

Do you want some more homework tips that are specific to times table practice while you’re here? Then have a read through my   list of engaging times table homework activities .

Have a question or a request? You can contact me at  [email protected] .

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7 Creative Ways to Make Homework Fun and Engaging

Homework is an essential part of any child’s school years. It reinforces what children learn in school, helps them develop a sense of responsibility, and cultivates good study habits. However, many children see homework as a tedious chore rather than an opportunity to learn. This perception often leads to procrastination, lack of motivation, and even frustration. As parents and educators, it’s crucial to find ways to transform this mindset and make homework an engaging and enjoyable experience.

Children often find homework burdensome because it takes time away from their preferred activities, such as playing or watching TV. Many kids lack intrinsic motivation when it comes to academic tasks, especially when they seem monotonous or challenging. This lack of interest can lead to poor performance, a negative attitude toward learning and an overall learning loss known as the summer slide in children. By understanding these issues, we can begin to address them creatively and effectively.

Today's children are accustomed to a fast-paced, digitally-driven environment where entertainment is just a click away. This constant exposure to engaging content makes traditional homework seem dull in comparison. To compete with these distractions, we need to integrate elements of play, technology, and creativity into the homework process. By doing so, we can capture their interest and make learning a more positive experience.

Here Are A Few Creative Ways to Make Homework Fun:

1. incorporate games and challenges.

Turn homework into a game by incorporating elements of competition and reward. For example, you can create a "homework bingo" where each completed task earns a spot on the bingo card, with a small reward for completing a line. Alternatively, you can use apps like BrainGymJr which come integrated with leaderboards to promote completion and milestone-based rewards in the form of certificates, digital collectables and even toys books and games. All these helps to make learning interactive and fun through educational games and challenges.

2. Create a Cozy and Inviting Study Space

A dedicated, comfortable, and well-organized study area can make a big difference in your child's attitude toward homework. Involve your child in decorating this space with their favourite colours, posters, and supplies. For example, having a special homework corner with a comfy chair, good lighting, and all necessary materials can make homework time more appealing.

3. Break Down Tasks into Manageable Chunks

Long assignments can be overwhelming. Break homework into smaller, more manageable parts and set mini-deadlines for each section. This approach can reduce anxiety and make the workload seem less daunting. For instance, if your child has a book report due, divide the task into reading, outlining, drafting, and revising stages.

4. Use Technology Wisely

They say if you can’t beat them, join them. If your child is attracted to technology, why not leverage it to enhance their learning? Technology need not only be for entertainment. Leverage educational apps and websites to make homework more engaging. Platforms like BrainGymJr offer a variety of interactive exercises and quizzes that make learning enjoyable. For instance, if your child is learning math, you can find apps that turn math problems into fun puzzles or adventures.

5. Incorporate Interests and Hobbies

Relate homework tasks to your child's interests and hobbies to make them more engaging. If your child loves animals, use examples involving animals for math problems or encourage them to write a story about their favourite pet for a writing assignment. Every child has the potential to learn and do great things, the trick lies in finding the right way for them to absorb information. The correct personalized approach can make learning far more relatable, fun and most importantly, effective.

6. Use Positive Reinforcement

Encourage and motivate your child with positive reinforcement. Praise their efforts and accomplishments, no matter how small. You can also set up a reward system where completing homework on time earns points towards a special treat or activity. For example, after a week of consistent homework completion, you could plan a family outing or a special movie night.

7. Make It a Social Activity

Homework doesn’t have to be a solitary task. Encourage group study sessions with friends where they can collaborate and help each other. This social aspect can make homework more enjoyable and less isolating. For instance, using the chat feature on BrainGymJr , children can discuss difficult problems with their friends and arrive at answers together, even when they are not in the same room.

Transforming homework from a dreaded chore into a fun and engaging activity requires creativity, patience, and a willingness to adapt. By incorporating games, technology, and personalized elements into the homework routine, parents and educators can help children develop a positive attitude towards learning. This not only improves their academic performance but also fosters a lifelong love for education.

"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." - William Butler Yeats

Play, Solve, and learn on BrainGymJr!! BrainGymJr offers DAILY puzzles on Mathematics, English, and Real-world Skills with customized levels of difficulty!

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7 Tips to Ensure Your Child Gets a Complete Education

How to make homework fun

Homework often carries a negative connotation, eliciting groans and sighs from students of all ages. However, it doesn’t have to be a mundane and dreary task. With a sprinkle of creativity and a dash of enthusiasm, you can transform your homework routine into an enjoyable and rewarding experience. In this article, we’ll explore some exciting ways to make homework fun, turning the dreaded assignment into an opportunity for learning and laughter.

• Create a Vibrant Workspace: Set the stage for a lively homework session by designing an engaging workspace. Add colorful decorations, inspirational quotes, and personal touches that resonate with your interests. A well-decorated and personalized study space can make homework feel less like a chore and more like an adventure.
• Turn it into a Game: Gamify your homework experience by creating challenges and setting goals. You can earn points for completing tasks, and once you reach a certain number of points, reward yourself with a treat or a break. Incorporate timers, scoreboards, and friendly competition to make the learning process more exciting.
• Choose Creative Assignments: Whenever possible, opt for creative assignments that allow you to express your personality and interests. Instead of a traditional essay, consider creating a podcast, a visual presentation, or even a short video. This not only makes the homework more enjoyable but also enhances your learning experience.
• Background Music or Ambiance: Create a pleasant environment by adding background music or ambient sounds to your study space. Choose music that helps you concentrate, or try nature sounds to add a calming atmosphere. Be mindful of the volume, ensuring it enhances focus without becoming a distraction.
• Take Breaks and Move Around: Break up your homework into manageable chunks, and schedule short breaks between tasks. Use this time to stretch, move around, or engage in a quick physical activity. Incorporating movement helps refresh your mind and maintain a positive attitude towards your assignments.
• Involve Friends or Family: Turn homework into a group activity by involving friends or family members. Collaborate on projects, share ideas, or create a study group to make the experience more social. Not only does this add an element of fun, but it also fosters a sense of community in your learning journey.
• Incorporate Technology: Embrace technology to make homework more interactive. Use educational apps, online resources, or multimedia tools to enhance your understanding of the subject. Interactive learning not only makes homework enjoyable but also provides a hands-on approach to grasping concepts.
• Reward Yourself: Establish a reward system to celebrate your achievements. Treat yourself to a favorite snack, a short episode of your favorite TV show, or a quick chat with a friend after completing a challenging task. Having a reward waiting at the end of your homework session can be a powerful motivator.

Transforming homework into a fun and engaging activity requires a shift in perspective and a touch of creativity. By infusing your study routine with elements of excitement, personalization, and collaboration, you can turn the most tedious assignments into enjoyable learning experiences. Remember, learning can be an adventure, and with the right mindset, even homework can become a thrilling part of your academic journey. Cheers to making homework fun!

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7 Ways to Make Homework Fun (Seriously!)

Make homework fun by changing the way you look at it

Your kids just spent all day at school. And now you’re asking them to do what? Homework? Hey, that’s kind of like having school at home. After an entire day of paper, pencils, and books, your child may resist (and that’s putting it politely) getting down to business during the after-school hours. Don’t stress out. Whether your child has to study a vocab list, do a few zillion math equations, or finish a few extra assignments, we’re sharing seven tips that can magically transform homework from a super-struggle to some serious fun!

1. Work Together Why not be hands-off when it comes to your kid’s homework, while still working beside one another? Return emails, answer your co-worker’s texts or work on the PTA fundraiser, modeling focused work to your child as the two of you spend QT together. If you think this seems like you’re not paying attention to your child or you’re slacking when it comes to parenting—you aren’t. Instead, you’re creating a shared workspace where the two of you can get business done together.

2. Get Creative Sitting like a statue and calculating problem after problem on a math worksheet isn’t exciting, so consider turning a study session into an all-out artsy adventure! As your kid reads a chapter from the assigned text, use the opportunity as a chance to put on a play. If not acting, paint out math problems, sculpt letters or turn American history into a song.

Other ideas (perfect for older kiddos) include more sophisticated setups like creating a series of paintings explaining a text the child is trying to interpret or interpreting a poem using their musical notes. Kindergarten-aged kids set can get back to basics and finger paint letters, make clay characters from a story or bang on pots and pans to learn about patterns or counting.

RELATED:  11 Math Games That Equal Tons of Fun

4. Take It Outside If there’s an outdoor space where they can spread out and study in your home, encourage it. A study showed that workers saw a 45% increase in productivity after being outside for about 30 minutes. Plus, offering up 10-minute breaks in the sun is a huge perk.

4. Make It a Group Effort Start a study group. Have your kiddo invite classmates to read, write and do math equations together. If your student is old enough to handle organizing and delegating, take a step back and let your kid take on a leadership role. Younger kids may need more help—think of this as a mini-educational play date for them.

5. Design an Awesome Workspace Take a page from some of the coolest places on Earth to work. Google, Apple and other tech giants all have fab workspaces for their employees. Why? To increase productivity. Create a communal workstation that all your kids (or all your family) can share instead of sending your little learners off to their room alone. Mix it up with a tall desk (by using a shelf), so your child can stand and work, or swap out desk chairs for a yoga ball or a twisty stool.

RELATED:  17 At-Home Learning Spots to Keep Kids on Track

6. Engage the Senses There is a reason those darned pop-its were suddenly in every kid’s hands. While engaging their sense of touch, smell or sight might seem like a distraction, it helps them focus. Try doing a sensory activity like making your playdough . You can also engage other senses: Stash a stress ball in the homework area to engage the sense of touch or play white noise to break the quiet distracting to your child.

7. Hold Office Hours Your child needs some homework help. Instead of hovering (no helicopters here) or taking over and writing your very own book report, set up office hours—just like your college professors did. Make the living room couch or the dining room table into your “office.” The kids can schedule a time to ask questions or can come to your “open hours.” This lets you help your child without actually doing the work yourself

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Khan Academy Blog

Making Homework Easier: Tips and Tools for Parents 

posted on September 20, 2023

By Stephanie Yamkovenko , group manager of Khan Academy’s Digital Marketing Team.

Homework can present challenges for parents and children alike. You naturally want to provide support for your child’s learning journey and ensure they are reaching their full potential. In this blog post, we will delve into practical strategies to assist your child with their homework. From fostering understanding and offering encouragement to breaking down tasks and implementing rewards, we will explore a variety of effective approaches to help your child achieve academic success.

Step 1: Set Up Your Child for Success

Your child’s study environment can have a significant impact on their homework performance. Create a space that is free from distractions like the television, smartphones, or noisy siblings. The study space should be comfortable, well lit, and have all the necessary materials your child might need, such as pens, papers, and textbooks. If your child’s workspace is noisy or uncomfortable, they may have difficulty focusing on their homework, resulting in lower productivity. 

For example, if you live in a small apartment, consider setting up a designated corner with a small desk or table where your child can focus on their work. You can use dividers or screens to create a sense of privacy and minimize distractions.

If the only place to do homework is in the dining room or kitchen, try to establish a routine where the area is cleared and organized before study time. This can help signal to your child that it’s time to concentrate and be productive.

Remember, it’s important to adapt to your specific circumstances and make the best of the available space. The key is to create a dedicated study area that promotes focus and minimizes interruptions regardless of the size or location of your home.

Try Confidence Boosters for Your Child Here!

Step 2: make it fun.

It’s important to make homework fun and engaging for your child. Here are some examples of how you can do it:

• Use games : Incorporate educational games like card games, board games, or puzzles that align with the subject your child is learning. For instance, use Scrabble to practice spelling or Sudoku to enhance problem-solving skills.
• Turn it into a challenge : Create a friendly competition between siblings or friends by setting goals or time limits for completing assignments. Offer small rewards or incentives for accomplishing tasks.
• Make it interactive : Use hands-on activities or experiments to reinforce concepts learned in class. For science or math, conduct simple experiments at home or use manipulatives like blocks or counters to visualize abstract concepts.
• Use technology : Explore online educational platforms or apps that offer interactive learning experiences. There are various educational games, virtual simulations, and videos available that can make homework more enjoyable.
• Incorporate creativity : Encourage your child to express their understanding through art, storytelling, or multimedia presentations. For example, they can create a comic strip to summarize a story or make a short video to explain a concept.

Remember, by making homework enjoyable, you can help your child develop a positive attitude towards learning.

Step 3: Use Rewards

Rewards can be a powerful motivational tool for children. Offering positive reinforcement can encourage them to complete their homework on time and to the best of their ability. 

Here are some examples of rewards our team has used with their children:

• Extra screen time: “I use Apple parental controls to add screen time on their iPad.”
• Access to a favorite toy: “My eight year old has a drum kit, which drives us all up the wall. (Thanks, Grandma!) But when they’ve been doing a lot of school work, we put on headphones and let him go nuts.”
• Praise for a job well done: “Specific, measurable praise is what works best.” 
• Trip to the park: “A trip to the park is good for everyone, especially for the kids to run around with the doggos.”
• Movie night: “I know every word and song lyric in Moana ; we now reserve showings for good behavior.” 
• Stickers or stamps: “Gold stars were such a thing growing up in the 80s; turns out they still work.”
• Stay up a little later: “An extra 30 minutes feels like a whole day for my young ones; use this reward with caution as it can become the expectation!”

So, celebrate your child’s efforts and encourage them to continue doing their best.

Step 4: Break Down Difficult Tasks

When facing daunting homework assignments, follow these step-by-step instructions to break down the tasks into smaller, manageable chunks:

• Understand the requirements and scope of the task.
• Break down the assignment into individual tasks or sub-tasks.  
• Splitting the middle term
• Using formula
• Using Quadratic formula
• Using algebraic identities
• Determine the order in which tasks should be completed based on importance or difficulty. 
• Start with the easiest task. Begin with the task that seems the least challenging or time-consuming.
• Progress to more challenging tasks: Once the easier tasks are completed, move on to more difficult ones.
• Take breaks: Schedule short breaks between tasks to avoid burnout and maintain focus.
• Check completed tasks for accuracy and make any necessary revisions.
• Finish the remaining task(s) with the same approach.
• Celebrate small achievements to boost confidence and keep motivation high.

By following these steps, you can make daunting homework assignments more manageable and less overwhelming for your child.

Step 5: Get Targeted Help

If your child is struggling with homework, it might be worth considering seeking personalized assistance. You have the option to search for professional tutors or explore online tutoring platforms, such as Khan Academy’s AI tutor, Khanmigo .

This AI tutor can offer personalized guidance and support tailored to your child’s specific needs, helping them grasp complex concepts and practice essential skills. Incorporating this approach can effectively complement your child’s learning and enhance their homework performance.

Enhance your child’s learning and boost homework performance!

Homework can be a challenge for both parents and children. But with the right approach, you can help your child overcome difficulties and support their learning. Encourage and understand your child, create a comfortable environment, break down difficult tasks, use rewards, get professional help when needed, and make it fun. With these tips and techniques, you can help your child achieve success, develop a love for learning, and achieve academic excellence. Remember that each child learns differently, so it’s essential to adjust your approach to meet their unique needs.

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The best way to learn and teach with AI is here. Ace the school year with our AI-powered guide, Khanmigo. 

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Making School Fun at Home

This article was previously published on 7/30/2019.

12 Ways to Make School Fun at Home for Students of All Ages

Back to school will look different this year as families and schools continue to navigate the uncertainty of COVID-19. Getting kids to enjoy (or even accept) doing their homework can be a struggle at any age, especially in the fall when students adjust to smaller classes, alternate schedules and a continuation of virtual learning that began in the spring.

For some families, new ways of learning are further complicated by parents’ work schedules and a lack of technology access. According to the Afterschool Alliance, 1 in 5 kids are unsupervised after the school day ends. And millions of families don’t have internet access at home.

During challenging times and busy parenting schedules, there are still ways to make learning at home fun, safe and constructive for students. Over the years, our trained youth mentors and program facilitators have developed lots of strategies and ideas to make homework more fun. Get tips on how to make virtual learning and homework fun in high school, middle school and elementary school so you can help your kid succeed at every age.

Ideas to Make Homework Fun for Elementary, Middle and High Schoolers

Many kids find homework assignments boring or simply get restless when asked to sit down and study – but that doesn’t mean they all need the same kind of motivation. Avoid a one-size-fits-all approach to homework help by using these age-appropriate tips.

Elementary School Homework Tips

Little kids frequently have trouble focusing on virtual learning and homework, especially when there are so many distractions and fun things to play with at home. The solution? Make learning more like playtime.   

• Create fun focus spaces. Kids often work on homework in their rooms or wherever there’s a little spare table space – but kids’ rooms and common areas are usually filled with distractions. Before this school year starts, create a special “homework zone” in part of the home that’s more peaceful. (A “homework fort” is always a hit with young kids, as long as it’s well lit.) Stock this area with lots of colorful school supplies so there’s no reason to leave until their homework is all done.
• Beat the clock. Young kids love racing to the finish. Make homework more like a race by setting up timed challenges. For example, count how many words they can spell correctly or math problems they can solve in the span of 5 minutes. The next day, challenge your kid to beat their own record. (A little competition can work great with siblings, too.)
• Try learning apps. Support the subjects your kid studies in school with apps that make learning about it more fun. This tip is especially helpful for subjects that you or your kid struggle with. Some of our favorite educational apps include DragonBox for math, Spelling Stage for spelling, and DuoLingo , which offers learning-based games in Spanish, French and many other languages.
• Team up with tunes. Just like the Alphabet Song teaches kids their ABCs, there are plenty of songs out there to help specific subjects stick. Search YouTube to find songs covering a range of subjects, including the planets in our solar system, the days of the week and months of the year, U.S. states and capitals, how to add or subtract, and pretty much any other educational topic you can imagine. If you can’t find a song on a given subject, try making one up together.

Middle School Homework Tips

In middle school, students gain more independence to work alone or with peers. Encourage their developing maturity with a little structure and loads of support.

• Use power hours. Power hours challenge kids to focus for a certain amount of time. Once the timer goes off, they can take a quick break before diving in again. Offering little rewards after productive power hour sessions is a great incentive at this age, too.
• Plan study dates. If your kid struggles in a certain subject or has trouble focusing in a quiet, empty room, let them invite a friend or two over to study. Just remember to follow current safety and social distancing guidelines. If another kid is too much of a distraction, set the tone by working alongside your child. While they do homework, you can pay bills, make dinner, reply to emails, or even work on a crossword puzzle or another brain game. Doing “adult homework” creates a sense of companionship without being too overbearing – and it can help kids learn that work is a part of life, not just a part of school.
• Make a routine. Lack of routine can be stressful for kids. Setting a regular schedule for homework, or the school day for kids learning at home, can help reduce resistance and improve consistency. Beyond planning time for homework, come up with other little rituals that can help your kid focus, from putting on their current favorite album in the background to using prizes and other incentives to reward good work, like a small treat for every complete assignment.
• Stay positive. Your attitude has a huge impact on how your kid sees the world, especially in the formative middle school years. Keep tabs on your own attitude toward your kid’s homework. If you see helping your kid with homework as a chore, your kid will probably feel that way about it, too. Instead, try to see homework help as a fun, productive time when you both can learn and hang out together.

High School Homework Tips

When students reach high school, having parents hanging around to nag them about homework doesn’t always help. Instead of implementing these homework strategies for high schoolers yourself, show this list to your teenager and help them come up with a plan they can stick to. Then, take a step back. Check in with your teen every week or so to see if their plan needs tweaking.

• Get organized . High school is the perfect time to start preparing for the life you want to lead after you leave home. To achieve your goals, you have to make plans and stick to them. It’s the same with homework. When you get your assignments for the week, month or semester, take some time before jumping in to sort through the deadlines and requirements. Then, come up with a schedule and a realistic plan of attack. Use a day planner, calendar app, or time management app like Asana to make to-do lists for yourself – trust us, it feels great to cross stuff off your list.
• Reward yourself . It’s easier to work hard when you know there’s a reward at the end of it. Set a study timer, and if you’ve focused on homework until the timer goes off, reward yourself with a favorite snack, a funny video, an epic solo dance party or a little social media time.
• Upgrade your workspace. Spruce up the place you do virtual learning and homework to fuel your productivity, imagination and problem-solving skills. Keep tools and supplies on hand to help you work through challenging assignments, like colorful pens, highlighters, sticky notes, and cool notepads or notebooks. Decorate with art and other objects that inspire you, and use calendars, whiteboards, chalkboards, corkboards, or even just paper and tape to help visualize and keep track of everything you have to do.
• Turn up the beats. Spotify has tons of playlists dedicated to productivity, from ambient noise to instrumental hip-hop. Find a few go-to playlists that help keep you focused and put one on whenever you have to zone in. Explore movie soundtracks and other kinds of instrumental music to avoid distracting lyrics.

Homework Help from BGCA

Every day, thousands of kids and parents rely on Boys & Girls Clubs of America for homework help and out-of-school support, especially in the crucial hours after school lets out and during the summer months. Explore our website to learn more about our programs , find your nearest club or support BGCA today.

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3 Simple Ways to Make Homework Fun

I’m going to be blunt.

Right now, your child’s homework time just plain sucks.

You dread it every night.  “Hey, have you done your math homework yet?

“NO!  I can’t do my homework.  I don’t want to do it yet.  Can’t I watch TV? I’ll do it after dinner.”

So much back and forth and back and forth. It’s become too much.

The question is, how do you make your child want to do homework?  How do you make homework less boring?

Read: What to do when your child cries over homework

Let’s define fun.  

If you’ve ever spent time outdoors, you might know about the fun scale .

The fun scale described three sorts of fun.

Type 1 fun is what you typically think of as fun.  It’s easy with very little challenge. Relaxing, new, and novel with maybe a bit of adrenaline.

Then there is Type 2 which is not fun… in the moment.  Shivering in 30-degree weather when you’re trying to sleep in your tent or wading through a cold river with the water up to your waist. 

These experiences aren’t fun at the time, right?  But when you look back you have a sort of fondness for them because you endured something or surmounted a challenge.

Ironically, Type 3 fun isn’t fun at all.  It’s pure suffering. Think about that movie with James Franco rock climbing when he lost his hand. 

 There are really two types. One, you can have fun with the unexpected.  Something new and novel is always fun.

For homework, type 1 is out because there is a challenge.  It’s hard. But type 3 is also out because we don’t want it to be miserable.

When people approach just the right amount of challenge and have the skills and help to achieve it, that challenge can be fun.

We can make homework solid type 2 fun.

That’s the kind of fun we want to attain with homework.  Here’s what to keep in mind:

Read: How to Build Grit in Kids: When to Push and When to Comfort

1. Make homework fun by putting it entirely in the child’s control

You know that fight that happens every night about WHEN to do homework?  

If you’re fighting all the time, you’re assuming responsibility over your kids’ work.

They feel no inner drive to get it done because they know you’ll remind them.

Instead, switch that responsibility to them.

When my daughter struggled with her homework in Kindergarten, we sat down and brainstormed everything she had to do after school.

She wrote down: unpack backpack, have a snack, feed the cat, do homework. 

Ok.. I had to coax her on that “do homework” task.

Then, I asked her to write down the order she wanted to do the tasks we agreed on.  

The first day she came home from school, I didn’t have to nag.  She followed the list.

Days after that, I didn’t have to nag, I simply pointed at the list and she started.

The time of the task was in her control.  

But she still had trouble with one more thing.

2. Teach your child how to cope with overwhelm to make homework easier

You know the feeling: when you have this massive to-do list in front of you and you don’t know where to start.

Everything feels equally important.

You do what you can not to hyperventilate and drown your sorrows with the nearest box of girl scout cookies.

That’s NOT Fun.

Your child is dealing with the same.  

What is fun is if we turn that overwhelm into a game.

Take out a timer and ask your child how long he or she thinks he can stay working on homework without getting distracted.

I would start low, say 2 minutes. 

Give your child the timer – remember the control – and ask them to press start and then work for that time.

You’ll see a renewed determination in your kid to stay focused and finish as much as they can.

When the timer goes off, point out how much they did!  Did they ever think they could do that much in two minutes?  What do you want to set the timer for next?

They’ll tell you.  

3. Teach kids how to reward themselves

Rewards are best when they’re unexpected.

But it’s even better to teach kids how to reward themselves so that they’ill always have a trick to self-motivate.

Rewards can be super simple – a pack of fruit snacks with one gummy for every timer completion.

A sticker they can put on their notebook.

Twenty minutes of screen time. 

Simple stuff they can give to themselves.  Ways they can connect the task with that feel-good reward.

The best part is that they eventually won’t need to reward themselves for doing homework.  Only when they’re building the habit.

The trick to make homework fun

These three skills of controlling their own schedule, making homework time a game and knowing how to reward themselves puts kids ways ahead when it comes to making homework fun.  

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The ONE Thing you can do this summer to help your middle schooler succeed this school year

As a parent, I dreaded my daughter entering middle school.

Middle school was the most trying time of my childhood.

I came from a rather strict and sheltered elementary school. There were 10 students in my sixth-grade classroom. We were taught by Sister Mary Clare and I wore a uniform every day.

And puberty hit me hard. I gained 50 pounds in what seemed overnight.

I felt uncomfortable and awkward in my own body.

Middle school was like throwing me to the wolves.

I prepared my daughter for how mean kids could be.

And I taught her to always wear deoderant (because I made that mistake).

I made sure she was always in a physical activity so that she’d know her body was strong.

But the mental overwhelm caught me by surprise.

How to Raise Self-Reliant Kids

As a parent, how to raise self-reliant kids is a hard question.

We all want kids who take care of themselves and their families, but many families struggle with how to get there.

These simple, yet far from easy, parenting tips are a great place to start.

Is homework getting you down?

You dread it as soon as you see your child take his backpack to the kitchen table or maybe even get in the car.

You anticipate the fights, the struggle and sometimes the necessary bribing and manipulation to get the homework done.

Just the other night, your child cried at the kitchen table for 20 minutes because he didn’t want to even try a hard math problem.

You had no idea how to help him. Maybe you tried Youtube, you tried googling, but nothing.

Or perhaps your daughter sat there with the assignment of writing a 5 paragraph essay but refused to actually write something.

She stared.

It was painful.

When I was a teacher, I assigned kids homework and expected it finished the following day.  I honestly didn’t know what a nightmare homework could be until…

Does it seem like your child has a lot more homework than you did at her age?

The vocabulary, the spelling, the math homework sheet and then the required 20 minutes of reading… all in first grade??

How can you possibly keep your child focused during it all?

“Noooo… I can’t do it. I don’t have the time!!”

Have you heard this from your child when she sits down to do homework? My gosh, it wrecks me.

I can feel her overwhelm and so relate to it.

I know what it feels like to have so much to do and what seems like no time to do it.

So, I jump in and try to help.

“It’s ok sweetie, let’s write down all the things you have to do to get it out of your head.”

“NO!” she pouts back, “That won’t help. I don’t know any of this and I have to get started now.”

What do you do with that? You see the problem, you know the steps to take to fix it and yet your child pushes you away like you couldn’t possibly know what she’s talking about or what she’s dealing with.

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Parenting And Family

10 Ways to Make Homework Fun

• By Rachel Pinn Updated On March 23, 2020

As adults, we often think of homework as a bad thing; tasks we are required to do after school that take precious free time away from our home life. But for kids, that's not the case! Starting in pre-K, kids are taught that homework can be fun, and it seems like the processes that adults find daunting are seen as play for little kids. So how do we capture that interest, spark and joy that our littlest students come home with, and keep it for as long as possible into our children's elementary and even teen years? Let's make homework fun again!

Designate a homework workspace for each student. This can be an area at the kitchen table, a spot in your home office or their own lap desk. It's not always possible to have a dedicated space for work 24/7, so it's perfectly fine to have a desk caddy with the tools your student needs ready to go when homework time comes.

Calming jazz, symphonies or upbeat rhythms can do a lot for productivity. Lyrics can often get in the way of certain types of homework, so it's best to consider the type of work before selecting. Spotify and Pandora have a lot of free options for listening while working.

As kids get older, homework can become more and more intense. Make sure to build in check-ins and breaks to make sure they're giving their eyes and brains a rest. Perhaps a snack, drink or short dance party is just the thing to refresh them for the rest of their work. 

Color and light are important to a workspace. If your child's favorite color is green, snag some green contact paper or construction paper and put it on their workspace. Make sure the space is well-lit as well, because squinting is no good for homework effectiveness.

Colorful pens, paper, pencils and other tools make doing homework more fun. These can even be a reward themselves, as getting to head to the dollar store or shop online for desk accessories can be just as fun as using them.

When you're working with your student, give them your full attention. Put away your work, your cell phone and other distractions while you help them prepare for some dedicated homework time. If you have to make dinner or get back to work, make sure to at least bookend the time with a few minutes before and after the homework period, which shows you're invested in their success.

Communication

Homework often requires a bit of communication with your child's teacher in order to squeeze the full learning out of it. There may be parts of a lesson that your child doesn't understand, in which case it's a good idea to make sure you communicate with teachers so you can assist where needed.

It can be hard to teach kids to filter out distractions and get to work, but sometimes a reward can help get them there. Maybe it's dinner at a restaurant they've been wanting to visit, "points" toward a new toy or even something as simple as an extra book at bedtime. Find what motivates your student, and let that motivate them toward homework success!

The best way to learn is to teach, so once your student completes their task, have him or her explain it to you. Let them tell you how he or she thought about the problem, how they came up with the solution and how they got there. That act of explaining will cement those learnings in their mind.

The key here is that if tasks ever become too challenging for your student, stay positive. Don't bring up thoughts of your own childhood; rather, move on to something else and come back to that challenge later. Remind them that everyone has different strengths and weaknesses when it comes to learning. and if everything was easy for us, it wouldn't be fun at all.

READ THIS NEXT: 11 Painfully Hilarious Homework Tweets from Parents

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10 easy Ways How to Make Homework Fun

Homework is essential for students to learn new skills, practice old ones, and develop good study habits. It also helps teachers assess student progress and provide feedback on areas that need improvement.

So, what can a teacher do? Is it not possible to eliminate homework completely ?

Table of Contents

1. Set up a Homework Game Board

To make homework more enjoyable, try setting up a board with different activities kids can do at home. You can use a whiteboard, poster board, or even cardboard boxes. Just make sure that the items on the board are age appropriate.

2. Create a Homework Journal

3. write a homework routine.

If you’re looking for ways to make homework more enjoyable for your child, try writing a homework routine. You can use a notebook or a simple spreadsheet to record the steps in completing the task. Then, every night, write down what needs to happen next.

4. Play a Homework Game

5. reward your kid with a homework prize.

You might not realize it, but kids love prizes. They’re excited to win something just because they did well on a test or finished a project. So why not reward your child and yourself too? If you’re having trouble coming up with ideas, try asking your children what they’d like as a prize.

6. Get a Homework Buddy

7. be positive.

Your attitude dramatically influences how your child views the world, especially during the middle school years of transition. 

8. Work beside your student

Being in the classroom while the entire family is having fun can make it difficult for children. Instead of leaving your child to do her work independently, be a part of them to complete some work independently. 

Spend time together with them and be there to answer any concerns she may ask.

9. Study with a partner

Let’s discuss working in the business. This could be your family members, or you could be helping your child cope with his work. 

This will inspire your child to put in the effort and emulate your actions. A shared workspace is an excellent way to test different scenarios, much like the office of our company.

10. Try your favorite snack or drink

You’re not productive If you’re hungry. You just have to take care of it. A child who is hungry is more susceptible to distractions than adults. 

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13 Fun Homework Ideas: The Best Ways To Make Homework Fun For Kids Quickly & Easily

Ellie Williams

Figuring out how to make homework fun can be a tricky task for parents.

Does it feel like you’re constantly nagging your kids to do their homework? If your answer is yes then worry not as we’ve all been there! It’s natural for parents to want their children to progress and do well in school, but after an entire day of paper, pencils, and books many youngsters will resist getting on with their homework – and that’s putting it mildly!

Top Tips To Make Homework Fun:

• Work together
• Use rewards and incentives
• Sort them a snack
• Make it visual
• Try different learning apps
• Set up a homework play date
• Turn it into a game
• Let them play teacher
• Use a timer
• Create a special homework space
• Remember to be positive
• Get help if you need i t

Thankfully, there are ways of making homework less boring and that little bit more fun for your child. Whether they need to practice spellings, learn their times tables or revise for an important exam, our top fun homework ideas will help you to magically take the ‘work’ out of homework.

KS2 Maths Games and Activities Pack

A FREE downloadable games and activity pack, including 20 home learning maths activities for KS2 children. Bring maths into your home in a fun way.

1. Work together

Adults often work best in the company of others, and the same can be said of kids, so why not sit with your child while they’re studying and get on with some of your own work or life admin?

Whether you’re returning emails, doing your online banking or organising the next primary school PTA fundraiser, creating a shared workspace and modelling focused work is a great way to spend quality time together while they complete their homework. Win-win!

Quick win : Whilst your child is tackling their fractions homework, you could sit down with them and take a look through your finances or even test yourself on the work that your child will be doing in their SATs .

2. Use rewards and incentives

Rewards and incentives are great when it comes to getting your children to follow your household rules and routines, and homework is no different. Things like stickers or the promise of time on their iPad or games console for slightly older children can all work wonders in getting them to do their homework without a battle.

Quick win: For every few questions they answer they could get a minute of screen time!

3. Sort them a snack

Let’s face it: A hungry child is an unfocused, unmotivated and unhappy child.

Most children come out of school ravenous, so let them nibble on a nutritious after-school snack while they get on with homework; things like popcorn, apple slices, grapes, flapjacks, or crackers and cheese are all great snack options.

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, Netmums has a list of healthy after-school snack ideas and recipes to try.

Quick win: One of the best brain foods for kids is a nice and crispy apple! So when your child is craving something sweet just cut up an apple and let them munch away.

4. Make it visual

Help to eliminate the late night ‘Oh, I forgot to do that’, and create a weekly homework chart so your child can see what they have to do each day and check off each homework ‘To Do’ as it’s been completed.

Again, Pinterest has some great free printables to help keep kids organised. Get them involved by letting them colour it, or decorate it with their favourite stickers, and pin it up somewhere at their height, where they will see it easily every day as a reminder. Some exciting new stationery and colourful pens might help too.

Quick win: An easy way to make homework fun is to grab a piece of paper and get your child to draw out and decorate a ‘homework chart’ consisting of 5 days. Stick it on the fridge and add a sticker to each day after they’ve done their homework, when they’ve collected 5 stickers they get a treat!

5. Try different learning apps

If your child prefers to be online, there are some great online apps around that children will have fun using, yet encourage learning too. Here are our favourite free maths websites for example. Speak to your child’s teacher too and see which apps the children use in school so you can support what they’re doing at home.

Quick win: One of our favourite apps that makes homework fun is Times Tables Rockstars!

6. Set up a homework play date

Holding a homework playdate where your child can invite one of their best school buddies over to do homework together can be a great way for them to learn and make sure the work gets done, especially slightly older primary children.

Plus, it’s likely that their parents will be delighted!

Younger children may need a bit more support and guidance but can still gain a lot from the experience of learning together with a friend – think of this as a mini-educational play date for them – with a special tea afterwards of course!

Quick win: Let your child and their friend play for a while, and then get them to work through their homework with the incentive of a yummy ‘tea party’ when they’ve completed all of their homework.

7. Go outside

If the weather allows, create a comfortable outside study space and allow your child to do their homework outdoors.

The fresh air can help kids with their concentration if they’ve been stuck in a classroom all day, and studies also show that being outside, closer to nature, can increase productivity. The reward of a quick game of Frisbee or a kick-around of a football between tasks will help them stay motivated too.

Quick win: Check out this fun outdoor maths activity for some inspiration of ways you can make homework fun. 

8. Turn it into a game

Who said home learning had to be boring? If children enjoy what they’re learning, they’re more likely to remember what they’re being taught, so turn their learning into a fun game. Using sweets like Smarties to help with maths and number work can turn the experience from a chore into a treat. If they get the right answer, they get to eat some!

Another trick that you can use when your child is learning spellings is to write them in foam or in magnetic letters. It sounds simple, but  we can guarantee that it will make homework a lot more fun for your child.

These maths games for kids and times tables games are a great place to start.

Quick win: If you’re looking for some fun homework ideas then check out this simple multiplication activity you can do at home, it’ll even get in one of your child’s five a day!

9. Let them play teacher

Make another fun homework game by creating your own mini-classroom and letting your child step into the role of teacher.

Have your child explain a concept to you as a teacher, as you, or their sibling, plays the role of the student. This game works particularly well with subjects that require theory, like Science for example, as it will improve their understanding of the concept and build logic and reasoning skills.

Quick win: Make homework fun by getting your child to choose their favourite teddys and toys and setting them up in their own mini classroom. Start off with registration, ‘mummy’ ‘present’, ‘mr teddy’ ‘here’ etc. You’ll soon notice that your child is growing in confidence regardless of the topic as children love playing teacher!

10. Use a timer

Some children may have difficulty working for prolonged periods of time without a break, so using a timer can be great for getting them to complete homework without the whining. For example, if your child is given 20 maths problems for homework, you can say “Complete the first 10 questions then we’ll take a 5-minute break, then complete the next 10 questions”.

Many children will need a mental break and will work more effectively when given the opportunity to take one. At the end of the task, they get to pick an activity of their choice. If your child gets easily distracted, a timer game can work well to keep them focused on the task in hand.

Quick win: Put the timer on your phone so that your child can see the countdown whilst they’re working.

11. Create a special homework space

A special study space can make homework more fun and help motivate your child to get it done! Choose a space in your house that’s least likely to distract your child, and create a simple, organised, and kid-friendly homework HQ.

You could hang up some of their artwork above the desk, and have all their school essentials nearby so everything is close to hand.

Quick win: Make sure that they aren’t surrounded by things that will distract them. Televisions and iPads are a no go at homework time!

12. Remember to be positive

Remember to always be upbeat and positive about school and the importance of their homework. Give your child lots of praise and encouragement about how well they’re doing to help them stay motivated and on track.

Quick win: After every homework session spend five minutes talking through what your child has accomplished. If you’re running out of activities to do, have a look at our list of home learning packs – all free to download.

13. Get help if you need it

Homework can be frustrating if your child doesn’t understand the material or gets bored easily. If your child is struggling, get them some expert help!

Quick win:  Third Space Learning has plenty of advice on learning maths for kids and parents but if you need more support, our primary school maths tutors are easy to organise and very affordable.

DO YOU HAVE STUDENTS WHO NEED MORE SUPPORT IN MATHS?

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Learn how pupils make accelerated progress or request a personalised quote for your school to speak to us about your school’s needs and how we can help.

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11 Strategies to Make Homework Fun and Manageable

Posted by Erica Warren on May 11, 2021

Homework Don'ts:

• Never pair homework with a punishment. When this is done, students associate homework with unpleasantries, and it can have a negative impact on future assignments.
• Don't call home assignments, "homework." Who wants to take their work home? Besides, when it is called work, it becomes work. Personally, I like to call it, "home fun!"

Homework Dos:

• Create enticing names for home assignments. For example, I never teach script or cursive. I teach roller-coaster letters! 
• Generate excitement about upcoming assignments by sharing your own excitement and enthusiasm for the content. 
• Bring creative options such as drawing, sculpting, and music into assignments.
• Introduce the fun factor to your lessons. Many students enjoy making games as well as playing them, so try to weave these into the curriculum. Encouraging these entertaining options can make academics more memorable too. 
• Bring color into assignments. Instead of requiring your students to write in pencil or a black pen, encourage them to use an array of erasable colors, highlighters, and pens.  Personally, I love to use Frixion pens , highlighters , and markers .
• Offer a variety of assignment options. Students possess different strengths, and they also have their own preferred ways of learning . Providing options allows them to share their knowledge and choose an approach that appeals to them. 
• Limit the amount of homework. Students are often cognitively exhausted after a long day of schooling, and they need time to relax and also get involved in other afterschool activities.
• Offering students extra credit for completing home assignments can be very motivating.  One of my favorite assignments is offering students the opportunity to make test corrections. This way, students can learn from mishaps and any misconceptions can be corrected.
• Offer homework passes: We all need personal days.

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How to Make Homework Fun for Kids: 5 Easy Ways for Parents

“Do your homework!”  Whining, procrastinating, and full-on tantrums may ensue, but it doesn’t have to be like that.  With the right attitude and a motivator or two, you can make doing homework fun for your kids.

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Make Homework Fun!

Sometimes the thought of your child having to do homework after being in school all day is frustrating.  However, to help make the task more pleasant for your kids and yourself, here are 5 ways to make homework fun!

1.  Magical Motivators

Use incentives to get your children to do their homework without a fight.  Small snacks, stickers, iPad time, or toys work well for younger children.  Older children might be motivated more by privileges like TV and Computer time or larger rewards like money. Whatever you use, remember your ultimate goal is to help develop good habits for the future.

2.  Write it for Them

No, that doesn’t mean doing it for them.  It might seem counter-intuitive, but if you mix up the routine, and have your child dictate the answers to you, they will be a lot more interested in the actual subject material.  This also gives you a special opportunity to bond with your child.  Not all homework can be done this way, but try to be creative and change up your child’s homework routine.

3.  Learning Apps

Homework can be frustrating if your child doesn’t understand the material. Fun math practice  apps can be a great resource for visual examples and games that help your child practice concepts he is struggling with.  So, make homework fun by getting an app that makes the subject easy for your child.

4.  Get a Homework Buddy

Turn homework into a play date.  Have your child invite a friend over and encourage them to do their homework together.  Make sure you lay down a few rules ahead of time.  Then you can reward the children with free time and a snack after they complete their work.  How fun is that?

5.  Don’t Take it Too Serious

There are more important things in life than homework and grades.  Too much emphasis on grades can destroy your child’s love of learning and devalue relationships.  Think about what values you want to instill in your child and make sure the homework is not getting in the way.  If you believe your child’s teacher is giving out too much homework after you see your child demonstrate an understanding of the subject, don’t be afraid to voice your concern.  Even if nothing changes, it will show your children that you care and empathize with them.  That can go a long way!

How do you make homework more fun for your kids? Let us know your ways at [email protected]

Thanks for reading!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can i make homework fun.

• Use incentives
• Use game-based learning
• Try different routines
• Try getting your kids a homework buddy
• Have fun with them

How to make school work more interesting?

• Do tough tasks first
• Use games to teach tough concepts
• Try to add a creative touch in every concept
• Get a school work buddy

How do you make homework meaningful and fun?

• Incorporate cause behind assignments
• Give students real-life application of concepts
• Include culture in homework
• Ask students to include new aspects in every assignment they do in order to encourage creativity.
• Make way for team work and collaboration

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• How to Make Homework Fun and Easy to Deal With

How to Make Homework Fun: 10 Tips

We Will Teach You How to Make Homework Fun

Let’s start with some main tips one need to learn how to make homework fun . Those advice works best if you do the homework alone.

1. Planning is the beginning

This fact a student should learn if they want their homework to be fun. Start with planning. You can come up with a simple plan in your head or use a special online homework app . But a writer needs to get few minutes to get the entire picture of your work to become clear. 

Planning ahead is the very useful thing to have as a habit. It will help you all your life even after school. If you are in a studying period, you should be extremely serious about your homework. It is very useful to make as much as you can at your classes. To learn how to finish homework fast , you should start with planning. You may also create a favourable learning space, where nothing will distract you from the process.

2.Do your homework at school

3. do tough tasks first.

Another cool thing to try is to deal with all of the tough tasks first. This is a perfect strategy if you have a long list of various tasks of different complexity. You also will be able to realize the amount time you need to cope with those tasks and edit them after the easy ones are done. It is also a perfect choice if you are one of those people that get bored very quickly.

4. Study with a friend

This time let’s talk about working in the company. It can be your friends, or you may be helping your kid to deal with his tasks. You may ask  how to focus on schoolwork in a company? It is not so hard if you try. If you are helping your kid, you may do your job just beside him. It will encourage your son or daughter to work passionately and copy your behavior. The shared workspace is a great method to try in different situations. Just like our company’s office. We love working together!

5. Make yourself comfortable

There should be just no limits. It means like absolute freedom. The only thing that matters is the result. The homework should be done correctly. That is all. No matter how you or your kid is sitting and where are you looking at. Just do your job and try to make it on time. It is one of the most important points of the how to make homework fun topic.  Relax and think about the result you need to achieve.

6. Have a break

You should realize that exhausted brains need to have some restart. If you are tired and bored, your brain takes little information even if you try hard. So, the best advice for you in this situation would be to chop your homework into few separate pieces. Do not forget about breaks! The best choice would be working for one hour with 10-minute breaks. Do not sit with your laptop. Stand up, go for a walk, have something physical activity; you may even play some game. Also, you should drink enough water to refresh the water balance for your brain.

Let’s name the most common distractions students often face with:

• Social media
• Smartphones

7. Organize a creative workspace

Ok, Google, what is the most creative workspace in the world? No, you are not supposed to get yourself a Microsoft or Apple type of office. But you can deal with something you already got and get something new to the interior. Is there enough light in your room?

You need to get some motivational posters on the walls. If you are working with your kids, you may come up with something like “Batman says to be cool, go to school” and anything like that. You may use some interesting stool to sit or a table made of a door. Consider something that will inspire you or your child to work productively.

8. Get some favourite snacks

You are not productive if you are hungry, just deal with it. A hungry child is even more sensitive to distractions than an adult. Just keep it in mind before doing your homework. Get a nice snack menu and start working. If you feel hungry, you may take a bite of pizza or something like that without a need to go to the kitchen and interrupt your working process.

9. Prepare a reward for yourself

No matter if you are doing the homework fun by yourself or you are helping your kid, you should have a reward. After the homework is done, you should have some sweet reward that would be a perfect hw motivation to deal with your tasks faster. The reward can be set for even smaller tasks. You may visit your favorite website after the one-hour session.

10. Get academic assistance

There are not so many students who don’t like to deal with their homework. They just consider it boring. Everyone just wants to put their homework off. Some students just prefer watching movies instead of working. However, homework can be beneficial for students.

The deal is not about laziness; it is the lack of motivation. It is a real problem thousands of students face every day. The task is not even as hard as it gets. All you need is motivation to cope with it and do it right. To have more interesting and helpful info about a studying process, visit our blog or order any type of academic paper online.

4.0 GPA… A study goal of many students. It seems so unachievable and fantastic. In fact, we’re all human beings with the equal opportunities. Students just need to set their priorities and focus on what is really important to improve their grades. Another crucial thing is to practice a lot. Probably...

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12 Ways to Make Homework Fun for Students of All Ages

Getting kids to enjoy (or even accept) doing their homework can be a struggle at any age, especially in the fall when students head back to class after a summer of freedom. Beyond the effects of summer learning loss , there are lots of other reasons homework can be hard for kids, too.

Unfortunately, many households in the U.S. can't provide consistent adult supervision after school.  A 2014 study by the After-school Alliance found that 11.3 million children are left unsupervised in the evenings, which is the best time to reinforce the lessons learned in class with a little homework help. Another 2014 report by the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention shows that the largest spike of violent crimes committed by juveniles is between 3-4 p.m., right when school lets out.

Making homework fun and inspiring kids to focus up can help curb these statistics. We know, because our professional staff spends so much time making out-of-school hours fun, safe, and constructive for kids.

Over the years, our trained youth mentors and program facilitators have developed lots of strategies and ideas to make homework more fun. Get tips on how to make homework fun in high school, middle school, and elementary school so you can help your kid succeed at every age.

Ideas to Make Homework Fun for Elementary, Middle and High Schoolers

From preschool to grade 12 and beyond, many kids find homework assignments boring or simply get restless when asked to sit down and study – but that doesn't mean they all need the same kind of motivation. Avoid a one-size-fits-all approach to homework help by using these age-appropriate tips.

Elementary School Homework Tips

Little kids frequently have trouble focusing on homework. School is out for the day and they just want to play! The solution? Make learning more like playtime.   

1. Create fun focus spaces. Kids often work on homework in their rooms or wherever there's a little spare table space – but kids' rooms and common areas are usually filled with distractions! Before this school year starts, create a special "homework zone" in part of the home that's more peaceful. (A "homework fort" is always a hit with young kids, as long as it's well lit!) Stock this area with lots of colorful school supplies so there's no reason to leave until their homework is all done.

2. Beat the clock. Young kids love racing to the finish. Make homework more like a race by setting up timed challenges. For example, count how many words they can spell correctly or math problems they can solve in the span of 5 minutes. The next day, challenge your kid to beat their own record. (A little competition can work great with siblings, too!)

3. Try learning apps. Support the subjects your kid studies in school with apps that make learning about it more fun. This tip is especially helpful for subjects that you or your kid struggle with. Some of our favorite educational apps include DragonBox for math, Spelling Stage for spelling, and DuoLingo , which offers learning-based games in Spanish, French and many other languages.

4. Team up with tunes. Just like the Alphabet Song teaches kids their ABCs, there are plenty of songs out there to help specific subjects stick. Search YouTube to find songs covering a range of subjects, including the planets in our solar system, the days of the week and months of the year, U.S. states and capitals, how to add or subtract, and pretty much any other educational topic you can imagine! If you can't find a song on a given subject, try making one up together!

Middle School Homework Tips

In middle school, students gain more independence to work alone or with peers. Encourage their developing maturity with a little structure and loads of support.

1. Use power hours. Power hours challenge kids to focus for a certain amount of time. Once the timer goes off, they can take a quick break before diving in again. Offering little rewards after productive power hour sessions is a great incentive at this age, too!

2. Plan study dates. If your kid struggles in a certain subject or has trouble focusing in a quiet, empty room, let them invite a friend or two over to study. If another kid is too much of a distraction, set the tone by working alongside your child. While they do homework, you can pay bills, make dinner, reply to emails, or even work on a crossword puzzle or another brain game. Doing "adult" homework creates a sense of companionship without being too overbearing – and it can help kids learn that work is a part of life, not just a part of school.

3. Make a routine. Lack of routine can be stressful for kids. Setting a regular schedule for homework can help reduce resistance and improve consistency. Beyond planning time for homework, come up with other little rituals that can help your kid focus, from putting on their current favorite album in the background to using prizes and other incentives to reward good work, like a small treat for every complete assignment!

4. Stay positive. Your attitude has a huge impact on how your kid sees the world, especially in the formative middle school years. Keep tabs on your own attitude toward your kid's homework. If you see helping your kid with homework as a chore, your kid will probably feel that way about it, too. Instead, try to see homework help as a fun, productive time when you both can learn and hang out together.

High School Homework Tips

When students reach high school, having parents hanging around to nag them about homework doesn't always help. Instead of implementing these homework strategies for high schoolers yourself, show this list to your teenager, and help them come up with a plan they can stick to. Then, take a step back. Check in with your teen every week or so to see if their plan needs tweaking.

1. Get organized . High school is the perfect time to start preparing for the life you want to lead after you leave home. To achieve your goals, you have to make plans and stick to them. It's the same with homework. When you get your assignments for the week, month or semester, take some time before jumping in to sort through the deadlines and requirements. Then, come up with a schedule and a realistic plan of attack. Use a day planner, calendar app, or time management app like Asana to make to-do lists for yourself – trust us, it feels great to cross stuff off your list.

2. Reward yourself . It's easier to work hard when you know there's a reward at the end of it. Set a study timer, and if you’ve focused on homework until the timer goes off, reward yourself with a favorite snack, a funny video, an epic solo dance party, or a little social media time.

3. Upgrade your workspace. Spruce up the place you do homework to fuel your productivity, imagination and problem-solving skills. Keep tools and supplies on hand to help you work through challenging assignments, like colorful pens, highlighters, sticky notes, and cool notepads or notebooks. Decorate with art and other objects that inspire you, and use calendars, whiteboards, chalkboards, corkboards, or even just paper and tape to help visualize and keep track of everything you have to do.

4. Turn up the beats. Spotify has tons of playlists dedicated to productivity, from ambient noise to instrumental hip-hop. Find a few go-to playlists that help keep you focused, and put one on whenever you have to zone in. Explore movie soundtracks and other kinds of instrumental music to avoid distracting lyrics.

Homework Help from BGCA

Every day, thousands of kids and parents rely on Boys & Girls Clubs of America for homework help and out-of-school support, especially in the crucial hours after school lets out and during the summer months. Explore our website to learn more about our programs , find your nearest club or support BGCA today.

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Paris Olympics: 5 inspiring quotes from athletes competing at the 2024 Games

• These words of wisdom from greats like gymnast Simone Biles and tennis player Rafael Nadal will encourage you to chase your dreams

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The life of an athlete is all about competition, and it can be difficult to understand the mental and physical struggles they deal with. It’s a long journey to the Olympics, one that involves hours of training – often every day.

Whether on a gymnastics mat or in a pool, these Olympians have enough experience to give words of wisdom that motivate us all. With the 2024 Olympics in full swing, here are some of the most inspiring quotes from five athletes competing this year:

“If you’re having fun, that’s when the best memories are built.”

Simone Biles, US

In an interview with Refinery 29 in 2016, gymnastics superstar Simone Biles offered this advice to fans inspired by her: “If it’s not your decision, you’re not having fun”, adding how fun builds the best memories. This quote highlights her belief that approaching a difficult task from the angle of enjoyment will mitigate the stress and allow you to create lasting memories you can cherish for years. As someone with a long journey in health and growth, Biles, now 27, has always emphasised the need for enjoyment and calm during the journey to success.

“It’s not about being the best. It’s about being better than you were yesterday.”

Florent Manaudou, France

The French swimmer and Olympic champion beautifully encapsulates the spirit of self-improvement and personal growth through this quote. The 33-year-old athlete, who won gold in 2012 and has since won three more silver medals, shows that when trying to achieve a goal, it is not about how you compare to other people; the important thing is how much you evolved as a person in the process. This perspective reminds everyone that no matter how many people you are competing with, your main competition is yourself.

6 Hong Kong athletes debuting at the 2024 Games

“I’m not back. I’m better.”

Sha’Carri Richardson, US

This elite American runner faced numerous mental health struggles after the death of her mother in 2021. But then, at the Track and Field World Championships in 2023, Richardson ran a 10.65 100-meter race, and according to USA Today, her official time was the fastest on record in the history of the race at the event. It was then that she gave her famous quote, adding that she wasn’t referring only to her ability as a runner but that she was a better version of herself. This statement reflects her growth and her determination to deal with difficult moments. “Now … I’m ready, mentally, physically and emotionally,” she noted.

“Summer, winter or rain; nothing should come in between your aim.”

Neeraj Chopra, India

The 26-year-old Indian javelin champion posted this powerful analogy on X, formerly known as Twitter, in February 2021 to showcase the importance of ambition. His words convey how nothing, not even the weather, could get in the way of his quest for success and how others shouldn’t allow distractions to stop them from achieving their goals. His quote, coupled with his arduous training journey towards the Olympics, shows that hard work transcends any obstacles when combined with determination.

“I play each point like my life depends on it.”

Rafael Nadal, Spain

Spanish tennis legend Rafael Nadal is one of the most celebrated athletes in sports history due to his passion and performance. In this statement, the 38-year-old player exhibits his commitment to the game and encourages others to do the same. Whether on a tennis court or simply going about your day, dedication is important, as this will bring you closer to success. When combining Nadal’s powerful statement with his achievements, we can see that extraordinary results can be achieved with the right amount of effort.

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Level up their kid-friendly fun with the included puffy cover, colorful Crayo-Pens and stickers.

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Loved by kids. Trusted by parents.

Help your kids learn and play in a safe environment with the Samsung Kids app.¹ They'll love the stimulating content. And you'll enjoy easy parental controls with a step-by-step guide on how to customize Kids Mode access, set time limits and more.

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Bring fun home to your little ones with a bright, engaging 11" screen.² A refresh rate of up to 90Hz makes every experience feel smooth — perfect for streaming videos and playing educational games.

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Donald Trump reignites tensions with Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp: 'Bad guy' and 'Disloyal'

WASHINGTON – Former President Donald Trump tore into Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp on Saturday, claiming the fellow Republican was hurting his reelection campaign in the Peach State. Trump also criticized Kemp for not helping his efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election.

“He’s a bad guy. He’s a disloyal guy and he’s a very average governor,” Trump said at a campaign rally in Atlanta in one of several comments aimed at Kemp, along with Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, another Republican who resisted Trump's efforts to overturn his loss to President Biden in the state. “Little Brian Kemp,” Trump called the governor. 

Trump’s attacks reignited tensions between him and Georgia Republicans. The former president lost the state narrowly in 2020 and heavily pressured Kemp and Raffensperger to reverse his defeat. Trump was indicted last year by an Atlanta grand jury for his attempt to overturn the election.

“In my opinion, they want us to lose,” Trump said of Kemp and Raffensperger.

Trump’s attacks on Kemp and Raffensperger are notable given Georgia is one of a handful of battleground states that will determine the winner of the upcoming presidential election and Kemp is popular in the Peach State.

Kemp hit back at Trump earlier on Saturday, responding to a post the former president made on Truth Social which also went after the governor’s wife, Marty Kemp.

“My focus is on winning this November and saving our country from Kamala Harris and the Democrats - not engaging in petty personal insults, attacking fellow Republicans, or dwelling on the past,” Kemp said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. “You should do the same, Mr. President, and leave my family out of it.”

During his rally, Trump claimed Kemp was to blame for crime in Georgia, saying “Atlanta is like a killing field,” under his leadership. Georgia “has gone to hell,” Trump said. 

Kemp did not vote for Trump in this year’s GOP primaries, telling CNN in June he instead casted a blank ballot because “at that point, it didn’t really matter.” Ultimately though, Kemp said he will vote for the GOP ticket.

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An Olympics Scene Draws Scorn. Did It Really Parody ‘The Last Supper’?

Some church leaders and politicians have condemned the performance from the opening ceremony for mocking Christianity. Art historians are divided.

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By Yan Zhuang

A performance during the Paris Olympics’ opening ceremony on Friday has drawn criticism from church leaders and conservative politicians for a perceived likeness to Leonardo da Vinci’s depiction of a biblical scene in “The Last Supper,” with some calling it a “mockery” of Christianity.

The event’s planners and organizers have denied that the sequence was inspired by “The Last Supper,” or that it intended to mock or offend.

In the performance broadcast during the ceremony, a woman wearing a silver, halo-like headdress stood at the center of a long table, with drag queens posing on either side of her. Later, at the same table, a giant cloche lifted, revealing a man, nearly naked and painted blue, on a dinner plate surrounded by fruit. He broke into a song as, behind him, the drag queens danced.

The tableaux drew condemnation among people who saw the images as a parody of “The Last Supper,” the New Testament scene depicted in da Vinci’s painting by the same name. The French Bishops’ Conference, which represents the country’s Catholic bishops, said in a statement that the opening ceremony included “scenes of mockery and derision of Christianity,” and an influential American Catholic, Bishop Robert Barron of Minnesota, called it a “gross mockery.”

The performance at the opening ceremony, which took place on and along the Seine on Friday, also prompted a Mississippi-based telecommunications provider, C Spire, to announce that it would pull its advertisements from Olympics broadcasts. Speaker Mike Johnson described the scene as “shocking and insulting to Christian people.”

The opening ceremony’s artistic director, Thomas Jolly, said at the Games’ daily news conference on Saturday that the event was not meant to “be subversive, or shock people, or mock people.” On Sunday, Anne Descamps, the Paris 2024 spokeswoman, said at the daily news conference, “If people have taken any offense, we are, of course, really, really sorry.”

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My wife isn't 'just' a stepmom to my son. He sees her as his other mom.

• My wife has been in my son's life since he was 6 years old.
• She has taken on a parental role, stepping in whenever I need extra help.
• Even though she's his stepmom, my son considers her his other mom.

After Vice President Kamala Harris announced she was running for president, one criticism lobbed against her was that she is not a parent because she has never given birth to children. But she is the stepmother to her husband Doug Emhoff's two children.

Like Harris, my wife is a stepmother to my son.

I am no longer in a relationship with his father and have been in a new relationship for four years. My wife came into my son's life when he was 6 years old and quickly stepped into a parental role. It was a role she enthusiastically took on.

Although she didn't give birth to my son, my wife is absolutely his second mother.

My son and wife's relationship started friendly

My wife didn't immediately take an authoritative role or force him to treat her like a parent. At first, she was more like a grown-up friend — someone he knew he needed to respect, but someone who would take him on drives to get ice cream or let him pretend to drive her car while I was inside the grocery store.

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I was worried about parenting with another person all the time. As the primary parent, I wasn't used to dividing parenting duties . My wife was aware of that and always deferred to me as the primary parent.

But the bond between my son and my wife was instant. He had never met someone I was dating before, but he liked her immediately.

My wife has taken on more responsibility as a stepmom

Over the last four years, she's taken on more parental responsibility but never tried to act like she was more of a parent than myself or my son's father. She is a bonus mom, someone there to kiss him goodnight , help him with his homework, and love him unconditionally.

During the pandemic, my wife volunteered to take the lead in helping my son with virtual school so I could focus on work. She created a schedule for him, made him lunch, and ensured he kept up with assignments. When the playgrounds opened, she would take him to play, armed with a backpack full of whatever was needed.

I have gone on several overnight trips , leaving the two of them alone together. My son doesn't even call or text me when I'm gone because he's having so much fun hanging out with my wife. I never have to worry about him; I know my wife will make sure he takes a bath and goes to bed on time.

There are days when I will ask her to tag in and do the bedtime routine because I'm working or want a break, and she does it without question. My son knows that if he needs something, he doesn't have to come to me all the time.

Seeing my wife willingly step into a parental role with my son has strengthened our relationship. I knew I loved her almost immediately after we met, but seeing how my son responded to her made me more secure in my decision.

Sometimes, she still refers to him as mine, and I always remind her that she's his mom, too. We do everything as a team: school meetings, performances, birthday parties . Everyone knows us as his two moms, and there's no one else I could imagine doing this with.

My son now sees my wife as the missing piece to our family puzzle. He proudly claims her as his other mom.

"You're my mom too," my son will say when my wife calls herself his stepmom. He made that decision. My wife never wanted to force a close relationship on him, but he pushed for it.

Media has warped the perception of stepmoms

Popular media depictions of stepmoms are largely negative. The common trope is that they're evil.

For example, you have characters like Meredith Blake in the Lindsay Lohan version of "The Parent Trap," the Baroness von Schraeder in " The Sound of Music ," and, of course, the prototype: Cinderella's Evil Stepmother.

These women are always seen as temptresses who come in and seduce the father into marrying them before revealing they intend to get rid of his daughter so that she will be the only woman in his life.

Maybe there are stepmoms out there who fit this description, but by and large, stepmoms are there to be whoever their step kids want them to be.

I know that's exactly the role my wife plays, and my son and I are all the more lucky for it.

Watch: Why one mother fled Texas to keep her child safe

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