Avoiding Homework Tantrums

Ari S. Yares, Ph.D., NCSP
DC Public Schools
www.ariyares.com
Average: 3.5 (4 votes)

With homework tantrums, you must try to see if the problem with the homework is the match of the assignment to the child's ability and skills. Often times, a child is frustrated with the assignment because they don't fully understand the directions. The child should often be instructed to have them repeat back what they think they are supposed to do and the instructions must read through with them. If the assignment is within their reach, but they've still got some resistance to it, there should be a modification to the assignment at home (e.g. just do the odd ones) and notify the teacher of what occurred.

 

 

Homework should not take all night. If your child is working for longer than ten minutes per grade level, start asking why this is happening. Is your child getting started right away or are they procrastinating? Do they understand the directions and what they are required to produce?

 

Dr. Ari Yares is a licensed psychologist based in Potomac, MD who specializes in parent coaching. He trained as a school psychologist and currently supervises special education evaluations for preschool age children in the District of Columbia. Dr. Yares has previously worked as a private school principal and school psychologist.