While many students are beginning to learn how to adjust and thrive in the “new normal”, it can still be quite difficult for students to focus on their schoolwork following a long day of learning from home or in the new school environment. Jumping right into homework after a long day can be quite stressful and unproductive.  So how can parents work to build good homework habits during Covid? Deborah Ann Davis, award-winning author, parenting skills coach, mother, and former high school educator with 20+ years of experience, has a few crucial tips on how parents can cultivate strong homework habits at home.  

Discuss homework plans as a family
It has a better chance of succeeding if everyone buys in. Negotiate the basics, such as: “where will homework be done?”, “When?”, “What will breaks look like?”, “How often do we check in on you?”, etc. You can always readjust the plans as needed! 

Work in a public area of the house 
After a long school day at home or at school, it is tempting to let your kids disappear into their bedrooms or quiet areas to relax. However, public areas keep them accountable and work to avoid internal and external distractions. A measly two hours of homework can easily morph into a labor that extends into the wee hours of the morning or not finishing the assignment at all.

List everything that is due tomorrow
Next to each assignment, have your child estimate how much time is needed to complete the task. Doing this will help keep your child motivated, organized and help keep the distractions at bay.

Allow a planned, 15 minute break every hour
Have your child get up and move around, eat a healthy snack, or get some fresh air! This helps refresh the brain, and it will interrupt any distracting paths they may be on. 

Lastly, hydrate hydrate hydrate!
If the body is well hydrated with water, the neural connections will connect the way they are supposed to, and the body will flush toxins while you work. Always avoid sweet and sugary drinks, as they may lead to a crash later on.