Reducing Resistance to Homework

Katya Seberson
EXECUTIVEMIND
http://executivemind.net/
Average: 3.1 (119 votes)

 

Here is what I can say about reducing resistance to homework.

It's important to realize that kids and adults resist homework, not because they are "bad" people and don't have a strong character, but because homework is hard. Kids don't often acknowledge it, and instead, they may say that "I hate homework!" or " Homeworking is boring!" or "School S*cks!"

 

There a fundamental difference between "I hate homework" and "Homework is hard." Once we acknowledge that homework is hard, we can look closely and try to see what exactly is hard about it. Do we lack a skill (like reading or writing)  or are we simply unsure what the homework entails? Sometimes, lack of clarity is the biggest issue with homework resistance and procrastination.

 

I find success using the two-minute rule. When kids find themselves procrastinating on something, they agree to do it for just two minutes and two minutes only. "You can do anything for two minutes!" Often, two minutes turn into twenty. Twenty minutes of focused attention is enough time for kids to understand what the assignment requires and they even get excited to do it.

 

When kids lack a skill (like reading comprehension, writing or fundamental math concepts), we must take a step back and work on building the skill first. Here, deliberate practice with frequent feedback is key.