Resolving conflict around homework

Some of the most common arguments at home (related to
schoolwork!) lead to statements like this:


“Stop playing computer games and do your homework.”

“I told you, get off your phone, I can see you are on
Facebook.”

“Why haven’t you started your homework yet?”

“What do you mean you have no schoolwork to do?”



If these are common refrains in your household there are some
simple steps that can be taken to deal with this.


Step 1: Family meeting. Both students and parents get a
chance to explain what is bugging them.


Step 2: Agree on how much time will be allocated to
schoolwork per day or per week.


Step 3: Agree that during this time homework will be the
first priority, then assessments and any remaining time should be
spent on independent learning (e.g. reviewing difficult work,
making summaries).


Step 4: Allocate set times for schoolwork and write these
out and put them on the fridge e.g. Monday 4-5pm, 6-6.30pm.


Step 5: Agree that in these blocks of time, there will be no
personal technology use (preferably phones switched off and put
out of sight).


Step 6: Decide on rewards and consequences if the agreement
is not honoured.