My child refuses to do homework

What you may notice

• Your child puts homework off until late in the evening.
• They tire quickly, cry or get angry while working.
• They say 'I don't understand' or 'It's too much'.
• They won't start unless an adult sits with them.

Possible reasons

• The task is hard and they are afraid of making mistakes.
• The work looks huge and they don't know where to start.
• After school they are tired, hungry or haven't had a chance to move.
• A phone, the TV or siblings' games pull their attention away.
• Homework has ended in arguments so often that it now feels unpleasant in itself.

What to do

1. After school, allow 30–40 minutes for food, rest and movement, then start homework at the same time every day.
2. Set up a quiet spot without a phone or the TV.
3. Together, split the work into small parts and write them on a sheet; tick each one off when it's done.
4. Use a timer: 15–20 minutes of work and a 3–5 minute moving break.
5. Start with the easiest task so your child feels success quickly.
6. Instead of doing it for them, ask questions: 'What shall we do first? Where are you stuck?'
7. Praise the effort, not only the mark: 'You worked for 15 minutes without stopping!'

What to avoid

• Don't do the homework for your child.
• Don't use punishments or threats: fear makes attention worse.
• Don't compare your child with siblings or classmates.