Are you spending an hour or more battling over getting homework done?  For many families and children, this is not productive and leads to a dislike of school as well as a disruption of enjoyable family time. 

If your child has an IEP, talk to your child’s teacher about reducing or simplifying homework to be more within your child’s abilities and/or attention span. 

It is also important to consider that the purpose of homework is to understand learning concepts.  Sometimes, it is ok for your child to give his or her answer verbally and for you to write it down.   

If handwriting is very difficult for your child, be mindful that the act of moving the pencil can be overwhelming for him.  This makes learning the actual ideas and concepts more difficult.  Some questions to ask the teacher include: 

-Would your child be allowed to use a Chromebook to type their answers?   

-Would they be allowed to record their answers or use voice to text?  We live in a time where there are a lot of options for a child to express their understanding. 

-Should they be using a large diameter pencil or a pencil grip? 

Try to have a desk/table that fits your child comfortably.  Tables/desks should be about at the bottom of their ribs and feet should be able to touch the floor.  This ensures that your child’s hands and eyes will work their best. 

Split the homework into manageable pieces and allow the child a 5-minute break in between parts.  The break could be something like playing with Noise Putty or Play Dough—something to keep them at the table but also fun.  If your child feels the need to move, try having her sit on a physio ball to bounce or do some jumping jacks together.  Take a dance break! 

Try keeping a list of what has to be done and check it off/cross it off as you go so the child can be encouraged that she is making progress. 

Limit background noise and visual distractions during homework time. 

Your child’s occupational therapist will be able to provide more ideas for a customized plan.