Back to School: Helpful Homework Tips for Parents to Support Their Kids this School Year

Congratulations! You've assembled a homework survival kit with all the tools needed to work on assignments at home. That's a huge first step! Now, let's dive into some more helpful homework tips to create a positive environment for you and your child(ren).

Back to School Homework Tips

Homework Tip: Delicious Nutritious Snack

Research shows a healthy snack before homework can help with a child's concentration, energy, and mood. But beware: not all meriendas (snacks in Spanish) are created equal. Try snacks that have combination of:

• Complex carbohydrates for steady energy

• Healthy fats for brain health

• Lean protein for satiety and focus

Pre-Homework Snack Ideas:

• apple slices and nut butter (peanut, sunflower, almond)

• greek yogurt and berries or granola

• cheese and whole grain crackers

A small, nutritious snack 15-30 minutes before homework gives the brain the fuel it needs to focus.

Homework Tip: Establish a Routine

• If possible, set up a regular time each day for homework.

• Pick a location that is free from distractions. If this isn't possible, use noise reduction headphones to help minimize auditory disturbance.

• Checklist for starting homework

  • Idea of things to add: Remove folders/books from backpack/bookbag. Get homework box

  • Add whatever makes sense for your child and keep it to less than 4 items.

  • This supports development and strengthening of executive function skills. At the start, review the steps with your child and have them go through the steps rather than stepping in to do it for them. Some children will require more support for longer periods of time than others.

Homework Tip: Park Distractions

The "Parking Lot" strategy is a simple yet powerful tool that helps a child manage distractions and stay focused during homework. By providing a designated space to "park" off-topic ideas, questions, or thoughts - like planning a movie night or resisting a shower - your child learns to self-regulate and prioritize tasks without feeling dismissed or worried about forgetting. This technique lets them know you are interested in what they have to say while having to wait (delayed gratification). It reduces interruptions and not having to hear yourself constantly say "not now" or "focus on your homework". It supports executive functioning skills including impulse control, attention management, and emotional regulation.

After completing homework or during a break, review the topics in the "parking lot." In my experience, half the time the idea often becomes less important to discuss once the homework is done.

Pro Tip: Use dry erase board or store "parking lot" in sheet protector

Homework Tip: Brain Breaks

Brain breaks represent an evidence-based strategy designed to support a child during homework and enhance learning outcomes. Research indicates that neurotransmitters essential for memory formation and sustained attention may become depleted within as little as 10 minutes of doing the same activity. Incorporating brief, structured pauses—referred to as brain breaks—during homework sessions can help mitigate mental fatigue while supporting improved attention, memory recall, and engagement in activity.

For elementary school students, a five-minute break after every 20 minutes of work is recommended. Middle and high school students may benefit from breaks following 30 minutes of focused activity.

Brain breaks can be physical, calm, quiet, or loud.  Some kids benefit from physical movement while others do respond better to quiet and relaxing activity like coloring.

Physical movement ideas: freeze dance, dancing, stretching, wall pushups, Simon Says

Calming activities: breathing meditation, drawing, playing with playdoh, listening to calming music

Avoid digital breaks on the iPad, computer, tv, or cell phone, as these activities are not restful for most and can lead to overstimulation.

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Supporting your child with homework doesn't always mean sitting beside them for every problem or knowing all the answers. It means creating the structure, encouragement, and habits that help them succeed. From setting up a calm space and routines to using tool like checklists and "parking lot" for distractions, your role is to be the calm in the chaos, their sturdy supporter, and the guide on the side.

The goal isn't perfect homework. It's progress, responsibility, and confidence in themselves. And with a some patience (and maybe a good snack), both you and your child can make homework time a lot less stressful and even a little rewarding.