good habits for homework

Ages & Stages

Developing good homework habits.

Some children get right down to work without much encouragement. Others need help making the transition from playing to a homework frame of mind. Sometimes providing a ten-minute warning is all it takes to help a child get ready mentally as well as to move to the place she intends to work.

There is no universally right time to do homework. In some families, children do best if they tackle their homework shortly after returning home from school in the mid afternoon; other youngsters may do best if they devote the after-school hours to unwinding and playing, leaving their homework until the evening, when they may feel a renewed sense of vigor. Let your child have some say in the decision making. Homework can often become a source of conflict between parent and child—"Johnny, why can't you just do your homework with­out arguing about it?"—but if you agree on a regular time and place, you can eliminate two of the most frequent causes of homework-related dissension.

Some parents have found that their children respond poorly to a dictated study time (such as four o'clock every afternoon). Instead, youngsters are given guidelines ("No video games until your homework is done"). Find out what works best for both your child and the family as a whole. Once this is de­termined, stick with it.

Some youngsters prefer that a parent sit with them as they do their home­work. You may find this an acceptable request, particularly if you have your own reading or paperwork to complete. However, do not actually do the homework for your child. She may need some assistance getting focused and started and organizing her approach to the assignment. Occasionally, you may need to ex­plain a math problem; in those cases, let your child try a couple of problems first before offering to help. But if she routinely requires your active participation to get her everyday homework done, then talk to her teacher. Your child may need stronger direction in the classroom so that she is able to complete the assign­ments on her own or with less parental involvement. One area where children may need parental help is in organizing how much work will have to be done daily to finish a long assignment, such as a term paper or a science project.

If your child or her teacher asks you to review her homework, you may want to look it over before she takes it to school the next morning. Usually it is best if homework remains the exclusive domain of the child and the teacher. However, your input may vary depending on the teacher's philosophy and the purpose of homework. If the teacher is using homework to check your child's understand­ing of the material—thus giving the teacher an idea of what needs to be empha­sized in subsequent classroom teaching sessions—your suggestions for changes and improvements on your child's paper could prove misleading. On the other hand, if the teacher assigns homework to give your child practice in a particular subject area and to reinforce what has already been taught in class, then your participation can be valuable. Some teachers use homework to help children develop self-discipline and organizational and study skills. Be sure to praise your youngster for her efforts and success in doing her homework well.

In general, support your child in her homework, but do not act as a taskmas­ter. Provide her with a quiet place, supplies, encouragement, and occasional help—but it is her job to do the work. Homework is your youngster's respon­sibility, not yours.

As the weeks pass, keep in touch with your child's teacher regarding home­work assignments. If your youngster is having ongoing problems—difficulty understanding what the assignments are and how to complete them—or if she breezes through them as though they were no challenge at all, let the teacher know. The teacher may adjust the assignments so they are more in sync with your youngster's capabilities.

Whether or not your child has homework on a particular night, consider reading aloud with her after school or at night. This type of shared experience can help interest your child in reading, as well as give you some personal time with her. Also, on days when your child does not have any assigned home­work, this shared reading time will reinforce the habit of a work time each evening.

To further nurture your child's love of reading, set a good example by spend­ing time reading on your own, and by taking your youngster to the library and/or bookstore to select books she would like to read. Some families turn off the TV each night for at least thirty minutes, and everyone spends the time reading. As children get older, one to two hours may be a more desirable length of time each day to set aside for reading and other constructive activities.

As important as it is for your child to develop good study habits, play is also important for healthy social, emotional, and physical growth and develop­ment. While encouraging your child to complete her assignments or do some additional reading, keep in mind that she has already had a lengthy and per haps tiring day of learning at school and needs some free time. Help her find the play activities that best fit her temperament and personality—whether it is organized school sports or music lessons, free-play situations (riding her bike, playing with friends), or a combination of these.

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Everyone struggles with homework sometimes, but if getting your homework done has become a chronic issue for you, then you may need a little extra help. That’s why we’ve written this article all about how to do homework. Once you’re finished reading it, you’ll know how to do homework (and have tons of new ways to motivate yourself to do homework)!

We’ve broken this article down into a few major sections. You’ll find:

• A diagnostic test to help you figure out why you’re struggling with homework
• A discussion of the four major homework problems students face, along with expert tips for addressing them
• A bonus section with tips for how to do homework fast

By the end of this article, you’ll be prepared to tackle whatever homework assignments your teachers throw at you .

So let’s get started!

How to Do Homework: Figure Out Your Struggles 

Sometimes it feels like everything is standing between you and getting your homework done. But the truth is, most people only have one or two major roadblocks that are keeping them from getting their homework done well and on time. 

The best way to figure out how to get motivated to do homework starts with pinpointing the issues that are affecting your ability to get your assignments done. That’s why we’ve developed a short quiz to help you identify the areas where you’re struggling. 

Take the quiz below and record your answers on your phone or on a scrap piece of paper. Keep in mind there are no wrong answers! 

1. You’ve just been assigned an essay in your English class that’s due at the end of the week. What’s the first thing you do?

A. Keep it in mind, even though you won’t start it until the day before it’s due  B. Open up your planner. You’ve got to figure out when you’ll write your paper since you have band practice, a speech tournament, and your little sister’s dance recital this week, too.  C. Groan out loud. Another essay? You could barely get yourself to write the last one!  D. Start thinking about your essay topic, which makes you think about your art project that’s due the same day, which reminds you that your favorite artist might have just posted to Instagram...so you better check your feed right now. 

2. Your mom asked you to pick up your room before she gets home from work. You’ve just gotten home from school. You decide you’ll tackle your chores: 

A. Five minutes before your mom walks through the front door. As long as it gets done, who cares when you start?  B. As soon as you get home from your shift at the local grocery store.  C. After you give yourself a 15-minute pep talk about how you need to get to work.  D. You won’t get it done. Between texts from your friends, trying to watch your favorite Netflix show, and playing with your dog, you just lost track of time! 

3. You’ve signed up to wash dogs at the Humane Society to help earn money for your senior class trip. You: 

A. Show up ten minutes late. You put off leaving your house until the last minute, then got stuck in unexpected traffic on the way to the shelter.  B. Have to call and cancel at the last minute. You forgot you’d already agreed to babysit your cousin and bake cupcakes for tomorrow’s bake sale.  C. Actually arrive fifteen minutes early with extra brushes and bandanas you picked up at the store. You’re passionate about animals, so you’re excited to help out! D. Show up on time, but only get three dogs washed. You couldn’t help it: you just kept getting distracted by how cute they were!

4. You have an hour of downtime, so you decide you’re going to watch an episode of The Great British Baking Show. You: 

A. Scroll through your social media feeds for twenty minutes before hitting play, which means you’re not able to finish the whole episode. Ugh! You really wanted to see who was sent home!  B. Watch fifteen minutes until you remember you’re supposed to pick up your sister from band practice before heading to your part-time job. No GBBO for you!  C. You finish one episode, then decide to watch another even though you’ve got SAT studying to do. It’s just more fun to watch people make scones.  D. Start the episode, but only catch bits and pieces of it because you’re reading Twitter, cleaning out your backpack, and eating a snack at the same time.

5. Your teacher asks you to stay after class because you’ve missed turning in two homework assignments in a row. When she asks you what’s wrong, you say: 

A. You planned to do your assignments during lunch, but you ran out of time. You decided it would be better to turn in nothing at all than submit unfinished work.  B. You really wanted to get the assignments done, but between your extracurriculars, family commitments, and your part-time job, your homework fell through the cracks.  C. You have a hard time psyching yourself to tackle the assignments. You just can’t seem to find the motivation to work on them once you get home.  D. You tried to do them, but you had a hard time focusing. By the time you realized you hadn’t gotten anything done, it was already time to turn them in. 

Like we said earlier, there are no right or wrong answers to this quiz (though your results will be better if you answered as honestly as possible). Here’s how your answers break down: 

• If your answers were mostly As, then your biggest struggle with doing homework is procrastination. 
• If your answers were mostly Bs, then your biggest struggle with doing homework is time management. 
• If your answers were mostly Cs, then your biggest struggle with doing homework is motivation. 
• If your answers were mostly Ds, then your biggest struggle with doing homework is getting distracted. 

Now that you’ve identified why you’re having a hard time getting your homework done, we can help you figure out how to fix it! Scroll down to find your core problem area to learn more about how you can start to address it. 

And one more thing: you’re really struggling with homework, it’s a good idea to read through every section below. You may find some additional tips that will help make homework less intimidating. 

How to Do Homework When You’re a Procrastinator  

Merriam Webster defines “procrastinate” as “to put off intentionally and habitually.” In other words, procrastination is when you choose to do something at the last minute on a regular basis. If you’ve ever found yourself pulling an all-nighter, trying to finish an assignment between periods, or sprinting to turn in a paper minutes before a deadline, you’ve experienced the effects of procrastination. 

If you’re a chronic procrastinator, you’re in good company. In fact, one study found that 70% to 95% of undergraduate students procrastinate when it comes to doing their homework. Unfortunately, procrastination can negatively impact your grades. Researchers have found that procrastination can lower your grade on an assignment by as much as five points ...which might not sound serious until you realize that can mean the difference between a B- and a C+. 

Procrastination can also negatively affect your health by increasing your stress levels , which can lead to other health conditions like insomnia, a weakened immune system, and even heart conditions. Getting a handle on procrastination can not only improve your grades, it can make you feel better, too! 

The big thing to understand about procrastination is that it’s not the result of laziness. Laziness is defined as being “disinclined to activity or exertion.” In other words, being lazy is all about doing nothing. But a s this Psychology Today article explains , procrastinators don’t put things off because they don’t want to work. Instead, procrastinators tend to postpone tasks they don’t want to do in favor of tasks that they perceive as either more important or more fun. Put another way, procrastinators want to do things...as long as it’s not their homework! 

3 Tips f or Conquering Procrastination 

Because putting off doing homework is a common problem, there are lots of good tactics for addressing procrastination. Keep reading for our three expert tips that will get your homework habits back on track in no time. 

#1: Create a Reward System

Like we mentioned earlier, procrastination happens when you prioritize other activities over getting your homework done. Many times, this happens because homework...well, just isn’t enjoyable. But you can add some fun back into the process by rewarding yourself for getting your work done. 

Here’s what we mean: let’s say you decide that every time you get your homework done before the day it’s due, you’ll give yourself a point. For every five points you earn, you’ll treat yourself to your favorite dessert: a chocolate cupcake! Now you have an extra (delicious!) incentive to motivate you to leave procrastination in the dust. 

If you’re not into cupcakes, don’t worry. Your reward can be anything that motivates you . Maybe it’s hanging out with your best friend or an extra ten minutes of video game time. As long as you’re choosing something that makes homework worth doing, you’ll be successful. 

#2: Have a Homework Accountability Partner 

If you’re having trouble getting yourself to start your homework ahead of time, it may be a good idea to call in reinforcements . Find a friend or classmate you can trust and explain to them that you’re trying to change your homework habits. Ask them if they’d be willing to text you to make sure you’re doing your homework and check in with you once a week to see if you’re meeting your anti-procrastination goals. 

Sharing your goals can make them feel more real, and an accountability partner can help hold you responsible for your decisions. For example, let’s say you’re tempted to put off your science lab write-up until the morning before it’s due. But you know that your accountability partner is going to text you about it tomorrow...and you don’t want to fess up that you haven’t started your assignment. A homework accountability partner can give you the extra support and incentive you need to keep your homework habits on track. 

#3: Create Your Own Due Dates 

If you’re a life-long procrastinator, you might find that changing the habit is harder than you expected. In that case, you might try using procrastination to your advantage! If you just can’t seem to stop doing your work at the last minute, try setting your own due dates for assignments that range from a day to a week before the assignment is actually due. 

Here’s what we mean. Let’s say you have a math worksheet that’s been assigned on Tuesday and is due on Friday. In your planner, you can write down the due date as Thursday instead. You may still put off your homework assignment until the last minute...but in this case, the “last minute” is a day before the assignment’s real due date . This little hack can trick your procrastination-addicted brain into planning ahead! 

If you feel like Kevin Hart in this meme, then our tips for doing homework when you're busy are for you. 

How to Do Homework When You’re too Busy

If you’re aiming to go to a top-tier college , you’re going to have a full plate. Because college admissions is getting more competitive, it’s important that you’re maintaining your grades , studying hard for your standardized tests , and participating in extracurriculars so your application stands out. A packed schedule can get even more hectic once you add family obligations or a part-time job to the mix. 

If you feel like you’re being pulled in a million directions at once, you’re not alone. Recent research has found that stress—and more severe stress-related conditions like anxiety and depression— are a major problem for high school students . In fact, one study from the American Psychological Association found that during the school year, students’ stress levels are higher than those of the adults around them. 

For students, homework is a major contributor to their overall stress levels . Many high schoolers have multiple hours of homework every night , and figuring out how to fit it into an already-packed schedule can seem impossible. 

3 Tips for Fitting Homework Into Your Busy Schedule

While it might feel like you have literally no time left in your schedule, there are still ways to make sure you’re able to get your homework done and meet your other commitments. Here are our expert homework tips for even the busiest of students. 

#1: Make a Prioritized To-Do List 

You probably already have a to-do list to keep yourself on track. The next step is to prioritize the items on your to-do list so you can see what items need your attention right away. 

Here’s how it works: at the beginning of each day, sit down and make a list of all the items you need to get done before you go to bed. This includes your homework, but it should also take into account any practices, chores, events, or job shifts you may have. Once you get everything listed out, it’s time to prioritize them using the labels A, B, and C. Here’s what those labels mean:

• A Tasks : tasks that have to get done—like showing up at work or turning in an assignment—get an A. 
• B Tasks : these are tasks that you would like to get done by the end of the day but aren’t as time sensitive. For example, studying for a test you have next week could be a B-level task. It’s still important, but it doesn’t have to be done right away.
• C Tasks: these are tasks that aren’t very important and/or have no real consequences if you don’t get them done immediately. For instance, if you’re hoping to clean out your closet but it’s not an assigned chore from your parents, you could label that to-do item with a C.

Prioritizing your to-do list helps you visualize which items need your immediate attention, and which items you can leave for later. A prioritized to-do list ensures that you’re spending your time efficiently and effectively, which helps you make room in your schedule for homework. So even though you might really want to start making decorations for Homecoming (a B task), you’ll know that finishing your reading log (an A task) is more important. 

#2: Use a Planner With Time Labels

Your planner is probably packed with notes, events, and assignments already. (And if you’re not using a planner, it’s time to start!) But planners can do more for you than just remind you when an assignment is due. If you’re using a planner with time labels, it can help you visualize how you need to spend your day.

A planner with time labels breaks your day down into chunks, and you assign tasks to each chunk of time. For example, you can make a note of your class schedule with assignments, block out time to study, and make sure you know when you need to be at practice. Once you know which tasks take priority, you can add them to any empty spaces in your day. 

Planning out how you spend your time not only helps you use it wisely, it can help you feel less overwhelmed, too . We’re big fans of planners that include a task list ( like this one ) or have room for notes ( like this one ). 

#3: Set Reminders on Your Phone 

If you need a little extra nudge to make sure you’re getting your homework done on time, it’s a good idea to set some reminders on your phone. You don’t need a fancy app, either. You can use your alarm app to have it go off at specific times throughout the day to remind you to do your homework. This works especially well if you have a set homework time scheduled. So if you’ve decided you’re doing homework at 6:00 pm, you can set an alarm to remind you to bust out your books and get to work. 

If you use your phone as your planner, you may have the option to add alerts, emails, or notifications to scheduled events . Many calendar apps, including the one that comes with your phone, have built-in reminders that you can customize to meet your needs. So if you block off time to do your homework from 4:30 to 6:00 pm, you can set a reminder that will pop up on your phone when it’s time to get started. 

This dog isn't judging your lack of motivation...but your teacher might. Keep reading for tips to help you motivate yourself to do your homework.

How to Do Homework When You’re Unmotivated 

At first glance, it may seem like procrastination and being unmotivated are the same thing. After all, both of these issues usually result in you putting off your homework until the very last minute. 

But there’s one key difference: many procrastinators are working, they’re just prioritizing work differently. They know they’re going to start their homework...they’re just going to do it later. 

Conversely, people who are unmotivated to do homework just can’t find the willpower to tackle their assignments. Procrastinators know they’ll at least attempt the homework at the last minute, whereas people who are unmotivated struggle with convincing themselves to do it at a ll. For procrastinators, the stress comes from the inevitable time crunch. For unmotivated people, the stress comes from trying to convince themselves to do something they don’t want to do in the first place. 

Here are some common reasons students are unmotivated in doing homework : 

• Assignments are too easy, too hard, or seemingly pointless 
• Students aren’t interested in (or passionate about) the subject matter
• Students are intimidated by the work and/or feels like they don’t understand the assignment 
• Homework isn’t fun, and students would rather spend their time on things that they enjoy 

To sum it up: people who lack motivation to do their homework are more likely to not do it at all, or to spend more time worrying about doing their homework than...well, actually doing it.

3 Tips for How to Get Motivated to Do Homework

The key to getting homework done when you’re unmotivated is to figure out what does motivate you, then apply those things to homework. It sounds tricky...but it’s pretty simple once you get the hang of it! Here are our three expert tips for motivating yourself to do your homework. 

#1: Use Incremental Incentives

When you’re not motivated, it’s important to give yourself small rewards to stay focused on finishing the task at hand. The trick is to keep the incentives small and to reward yourself often. For example, maybe you’re reading a good book in your free time. For every ten minutes you spend on your homework, you get to read five pages of your book. Like we mentioned earlier, make sure you’re choosing a reward that works for you! 

So why does this technique work? Using small rewards more often allows you to experience small wins for getting your work done. Every time you make it to one of your tiny reward points, you get to celebrate your success, which gives your brain a boost of dopamine . Dopamine helps you stay motivated and also creates a feeling of satisfaction when you complete your homework !  

#2: Form a Homework Group 

If you’re having trouble motivating yourself, it’s okay to turn to others for support. Creating a homework group can help with this. Bring together a group of your friends or classmates, and pick one time a week where you meet and work on homework together. You don’t have to be in the same class, or even taking the same subjects— the goal is to encourage one another to start (and finish!) your assignments. 

Another added benefit of a homework group is that you can help one another if you’re struggling to understand the material covered in your classes. This is especially helpful if your lack of motivation comes from being intimidated by your assignments. Asking your friends for help may feel less scary than talking to your teacher...and once you get a handle on the material, your homework may become less frightening, too. 

#3: Change Up Your Environment 

If you find that you’re totally unmotivated, it may help if you find a new place to do your homework. For example, if you’ve been struggling to get your homework done at home, try spending an extra hour in the library after school instead. The change of scenery can limit your distractions and give you the energy you need to get your work done. 

If you’re stuck doing homework at home, you can still use this tip. For instance, maybe you’ve always done your homework sitting on your bed. Try relocating somewhere else, like your kitchen table, for a few weeks. You may find that setting up a new “homework spot” in your house gives you a motivational lift and helps you get your work done. 

Social media can be a huge problem when it comes to doing homework. We have advice for helping you unplug and regain focus.

How to Do Homework When You’re Easily Distracted

We live in an always-on world, and there are tons of things clamoring for our attention. From friends and family to pop culture and social media, it seems like there’s always something (or someone!) distracting us from the things we need to do.

The 24/7 world we live in has affected our ability to focus on tasks for prolonged periods of time. Research has shown that over the past decade, an average person’s attention span has gone from 12 seconds to eight seconds . And when we do lose focus, i t takes people a long time to get back on task . One study found that it can take as long as 23 minutes to get back to work once we’ve been distracte d. No wonder it can take hours to get your homework done! 

3 Tips to Improve Your Focus

If you have a hard time focusing when you’re doing your homework, it’s a good idea to try and eliminate as many distractions as possible. Here are three expert tips for blocking out the noise so you can focus on getting your homework done. 

#1: Create a Distraction-Free Environment

Pick a place where you’ll do your homework every day, and make it as distraction-free as possible. Try to find a location where there won’t be tons of noise, and limit your access to screens while you’re doing your homework. Put together a focus-oriented playlist (or choose one on your favorite streaming service), and put your headphones on while you work. 

You may find that other people, like your friends and family, are your biggest distraction. If that’s the case, try setting up some homework boundaries. Let them know when you’ll be working on homework every day, and ask them if they’ll help you keep a quiet environment. They’ll be happy to lend a hand! 

#2: Limit Your Access to Technology 

We know, we know...this tip isn’t fun, but it does work. For homework that doesn’t require a computer, like handouts or worksheets, it’s best to put all your technology away . Turn off your television, put your phone and laptop in your backpack, and silence notifications on any wearable tech you may be sporting. If you listen to music while you work, that’s fine...but make sure you have a playlist set up so you’re not shuffling through songs once you get started on your homework. 

If your homework requires your laptop or tablet, it can be harder to limit your access to distractions. But it’s not impossible! T here are apps you can download that will block certain websites while you’re working so that you’re not tempted to scroll through Twitter or check your Facebook feed. Silence notifications and text messages on your computer, and don’t open your email account unless you absolutely have to. And if you don’t need access to the internet to complete your assignments, turn off your WiFi. Cutting out the online chatter is a great way to make sure you’re getting your homework done. 

#3: Set a Timer (the Pomodoro Technique)

Have you ever heard of the Pomodoro technique ? It’s a productivity hack that uses a timer to help you focus!

Here’s how it works: first, set a timer for 25 minutes. This is going to be your work time. During this 25 minutes, all you can do is work on whatever homework assignment you have in front of you. No email, no text messaging, no phone calls—just homework. When that timer goes off, you get to take a 5 minute break. Every time you go through one of these cycles, it’s called a “pomodoro.” For every four pomodoros you complete, you can take a longer break of 15 to 30 minutes.

The pomodoro technique works through a combination of boundary setting and rewards. First, it gives you a finite amount of time to focus, so you know that you only have to work really hard for 25 minutes. Once you’ve done that, you’re rewarded with a short break where you can do whatever you want. Additionally, tracking how many pomodoros you complete can help you see how long you’re really working on your homework. (Once you start using our focus tips, you may find it doesn’t take as long as you thought!)

Two Bonus Tips for How to Do Homework Fast

Even if you’re doing everything right, there will be times when you just need to get your homework done as fast as possible. (Why do teachers always have projects due in the same week? The world may never know.)

The problem with speeding through homework is that it’s easy to make mistakes. While turning in an assignment is always better than not submitting anything at all, you want to make sure that you’re not compromising quality for speed. Simply put, the goal is to get your homework done quickly and still make a good grade on the assignment! 

Here are our two bonus tips for getting a decent grade on your homework assignments , even when you’re in a time crunch. 

#1: Do the Easy Parts First 

This is especially true if you’re working on a handout with multiple questions. Before you start working on the assignment, read through all the questions and problems. As you do, make a mark beside the questions you think are “easy” to answer . 

Once you’ve finished going through the whole assignment, you can answer these questions first. Getting the easy questions out of the way as quickly as possible lets you spend more time on the trickier portions of your homework, which will maximize your assignment grade. 

(Quick note: this is also a good strategy to use on timed assignments and tests, like the SAT and the ACT !) 

#2: Pay Attention in Class 

Homework gets a lot easier when you’re actively learning the material. Teachers aren’t giving you homework because they’re mean or trying to ruin your weekend... it’s because they want you to really understand the course material. Homework is designed to reinforce what you’re already learning in class so you’ll be ready to tackle harder concepts later.

When you pay attention in class, ask questions, and take good notes, you’re absorbing the information you’ll need to succeed on your homework assignments. (You’re stuck in class anyway, so you might as well make the most of it!) Not only will paying attention in class make your homework less confusing, it will also help it go much faster, too.

What’s Next?

If you’re looking to improve your productivity beyond homework, a good place to begin is with time management. After all, we only have so much time in a day...so it’s important to get the most out of it! To get you started, check out this list of the 12 best time management techniques that you can start using today.

You may have read this article because homework struggles have been affecting your GPA. Now that you’re on the path to homework success, it’s time to start being proactive about raising your grades. This article teaches you everything you need to know about raising your GPA so you can

Now you know how to get motivated to do homework...but what about your study habits? Studying is just as critical to getting good grades, and ultimately getting into a good college . We can teach you how to study bette r in high school. (We’ve also got tons of resources to help you study for your ACT and SAT exams , too!)

These recommendations are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links, PrepScholar may receive a commission.

Ashley Sufflé Robinson has a Ph.D. in 19th Century English Literature. As a content writer for PrepScholar, Ashley is passionate about giving college-bound students the in-depth information they need to get into the school of their dreams.

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Does Homework Really Help Students Learn?

A conversation with a Wheelock researcher, a BU student, and a fourth-grade teacher

“Quality homework is engaging and relevant to kids’ lives,” says Wheelock’s Janine Bempechat. “It gives them autonomy and engages them in the community and with their families. In some subjects, like math, worksheets can be very helpful. It has to do with the value of practicing over and over.” Photo by iStock/Glenn Cook Photography

Do your homework.

If only it were that simple.

Educators have debated the merits of homework since the late 19th century. In recent years, amid concerns of some parents and teachers that children are being stressed out by too much homework, things have only gotten more fraught.

“Homework is complicated,” says developmental psychologist Janine Bempechat, a Wheelock College of Education & Human Development clinical professor. The author of the essay “ The Case for (Quality) Homework—Why It Improves Learning and How Parents Can Help ” in the winter 2019 issue of Education Next , Bempechat has studied how the debate about homework is influencing teacher preparation, parent and student beliefs about learning, and school policies.

She worries especially about socioeconomically disadvantaged students from low-performing schools who, according to research by Bempechat and others, get little or no homework.

BU Today  sat down with Bempechat and Erin Bruce (Wheelock’17,’18), a new fourth-grade teacher at a suburban Boston school, and future teacher freshman Emma Ardizzone (Wheelock) to talk about what quality homework looks like, how it can help children learn, and how schools can equip teachers to design it, evaluate it, and facilitate parents’ role in it.

BU Today: Parents and educators who are against homework in elementary school say there is no research definitively linking it to academic performance for kids in the early grades. You’ve said that they’re missing the point.

Bempechat : I think teachers assign homework in elementary school as a way to help kids develop skills they’ll need when they’re older—to begin to instill a sense of responsibility and to learn planning and organizational skills. That’s what I think is the greatest value of homework—in cultivating beliefs about learning and skills associated with academic success. If we greatly reduce or eliminate homework in elementary school, we deprive kids and parents of opportunities to instill these important learning habits and skills.

We do know that beginning in late middle school, and continuing through high school, there is a strong and positive correlation between homework completion and academic success.

That’s what I think is the greatest value of homework—in cultivating beliefs about learning and skills associated with academic success.

You talk about the importance of quality homework. What is that?

Quality homework is engaging and relevant to kids’ lives. It gives them autonomy and engages them in the community and with their families. In some subjects, like math, worksheets can be very helpful. It has to do with the value of practicing over and over.

What are your concerns about homework and low-income children?

The argument that some people make—that homework “punishes the poor” because lower-income parents may not be as well-equipped as affluent parents to help their children with homework—is very troubling to me. There are no parents who don’t care about their children’s learning. Parents don’t actually have to help with homework completion in order for kids to do well. They can help in other ways—by helping children organize a study space, providing snacks, being there as a support, helping children work in groups with siblings or friends.

Isn’t the discussion about getting rid of homework happening mostly in affluent communities?

Yes, and the stories we hear of kids being stressed out from too much homework—four or five hours of homework a night—are real. That’s problematic for physical and mental health and overall well-being. But the research shows that higher-income students get a lot more homework than lower-income kids.

Teachers may not have as high expectations for lower-income children. Schools should bear responsibility for providing supports for kids to be able to get their homework done—after-school clubs, community support, peer group support. It does kids a disservice when our expectations are lower for them.

The conversation around homework is to some extent a social class and social justice issue. If we eliminate homework for all children because affluent children have too much, we’re really doing a disservice to low-income children. They need the challenge, and every student can rise to the challenge with enough supports in place.

What did you learn by studying how education schools are preparing future teachers to handle homework?

My colleague, Margarita Jimenez-Silva, at the University of California, Davis, School of Education, and I interviewed faculty members at education schools, as well as supervising teachers, to find out how students are being prepared. And it seemed that they weren’t. There didn’t seem to be any readings on the research, or conversations on what high-quality homework is and how to design it.

Erin, what kind of training did you get in handling homework?

Bruce : I had phenomenal professors at Wheelock, but homework just didn’t come up. I did lots of student teaching. I’ve been in classrooms where the teachers didn’t assign any homework, and I’ve been in rooms where they assigned hours of homework a night. But I never even considered homework as something that was my decision. I just thought it was something I’d pull out of a book and it’d be done.

I started giving homework on the first night of school this year. My first assignment was to go home and draw a picture of the room where you do your homework. I want to know if it’s at a table and if there are chairs around it and if mom’s cooking dinner while you’re doing homework.

The second night I asked them to talk to a grown-up about how are you going to be able to get your homework done during the week. The kids really enjoyed it. There’s a running joke that I’m teaching life skills.

Friday nights, I read all my kids’ responses to me on their homework from the week and it’s wonderful. They pour their hearts out. It’s like we’re having a conversation on my couch Friday night.

It matters to know that the teacher cares about you and that what you think matters to the teacher. Homework is a vehicle to connect home and school…for parents to know teachers are welcoming to them and their families.

Bempechat : I can’t imagine that most new teachers would have the intuition Erin had in designing homework the way she did.

Ardizzone : Conversations with kids about homework, feeling you’re being listened to—that’s such a big part of wanting to do homework….I grew up in Westchester County. It was a pretty demanding school district. My junior year English teacher—I loved her—she would give us feedback, have meetings with all of us. She’d say, “If you have any questions, if you have anything you want to talk about, you can talk to me, here are my office hours.” It felt like she actually cared.

Bempechat : It matters to know that the teacher cares about you and that what you think matters to the teacher. Homework is a vehicle to connect home and school…for parents to know teachers are welcoming to them and their families.

Ardizzone : But can’t it lead to parents being overbearing and too involved in their children’s lives as students?

Bempechat : There’s good help and there’s bad help. The bad help is what you’re describing—when parents hover inappropriately, when they micromanage, when they see their children confused and struggling and tell them what to do.

Good help is when parents recognize there’s a struggle going on and instead ask informative questions: “Where do you think you went wrong?” They give hints, or pointers, rather than saying, “You missed this,” or “You didn’t read that.”

Bruce : I hope something comes of this. I hope BU or Wheelock can think of some way to make this a more pressing issue. As a first-year teacher, it was not something I even thought about on the first day of school—until a kid raised his hand and said, “Do we have homework?” It would have been wonderful if I’d had a plan from day one.

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Senior Contributing Editor

Sara Rimer A journalist for more than three decades, Sara Rimer worked at the Miami Herald , Washington Post and, for 26 years, the New York Times , where she was the New England bureau chief, and a national reporter covering education, aging, immigration, and other social justice issues. Her stories on the death penalty’s inequities were nominated for a Pulitzer Prize and cited in the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision outlawing the execution of people with intellectual disabilities. Her journalism honors include Columbia University’s Meyer Berger award for in-depth human interest reporting. She holds a BA degree in American Studies from the University of Michigan. Profile

She can be reached at [email protected] .

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There are 81 comments on Does Homework Really Help Students Learn?

Insightful! The values about homework in elementary schools are well aligned with my intuition as a parent.

when i finish my work i do my homework and i sometimes forget what to do because i did not get enough sleep

same omg it does not help me it is stressful and if I have it in more than one class I hate it.

Same I think my parent wants to help me but, she doesn’t care if I get bad grades so I just try my best and my grades are great.

I think that last question about Good help from parents is not know to all parents, we do as our parents did or how we best think it can be done, so maybe coaching parents or giving them resources on how to help with homework would be very beneficial for the parent on how to help and for the teacher to have consistency and improve homework results, and of course for the child. I do see how homework helps reaffirm the knowledge obtained in the classroom, I also have the ability to see progress and it is a time I share with my kids

The answer to the headline question is a no-brainer – a more pressing problem is why there is a difference in how students from different cultures succeed. Perfect example is the student population at BU – why is there a majority population of Asian students and only about 3% black students at BU? In fact at some universities there are law suits by Asians to stop discrimination and quotas against admitting Asian students because the real truth is that as a group they are demonstrating better qualifications for admittance, while at the same time there are quotas and reduced requirements for black students to boost their portion of the student population because as a group they do more poorly in meeting admissions standards – and it is not about the Benjamins. The real problem is that in our PC society no one has the gazuntas to explore this issue as it may reveal that all people are not created equal after all. Or is it just environmental cultural differences??????

I get you have a concern about the issue but that is not even what the point of this article is about. If you have an issue please take this to the site we have and only post your opinion about the actual topic

This is not at all what the article is talking about.

This literally has nothing to do with the article brought up. You should really take your opinions somewhere else before you speak about something that doesn’t make sense.

we have the same name

so they have the same name what of it?

lol you tell her

totally agree

What does that have to do with homework, that is not what the article talks about AT ALL.

Yes, I think homework plays an important role in the development of student life. Through homework, students have to face challenges on a daily basis and they try to solve them quickly.I am an intense online tutor at 24x7homeworkhelp and I give homework to my students at that level in which they handle it easily.

More than two-thirds of students said they used alcohol and drugs, primarily marijuana, to cope with stress.

You know what’s funny? I got this assignment to write an argument for homework about homework and this article was really helpful and understandable, and I also agree with this article’s point of view.

I also got the same task as you! I was looking for some good resources and I found this! I really found this article useful and easy to understand, just like you! ^^

i think that homework is the best thing that a child can have on the school because it help them with their thinking and memory.

I am a child myself and i think homework is a terrific pass time because i can’t play video games during the week. It also helps me set goals.

Homework is not harmful ,but it will if there is too much

I feel like, from a minors point of view that we shouldn’t get homework. Not only is the homework stressful, but it takes us away from relaxing and being social. For example, me and my friends was supposed to hang at the mall last week but we had to postpone it since we all had some sort of work to do. Our minds shouldn’t be focused on finishing an assignment that in realty, doesn’t matter. I completely understand that we should have homework. I have to write a paper on the unimportance of homework so thanks.

homework isn’t that bad

Are you a student? if not then i don’t really think you know how much and how severe todays homework really is

i am a student and i do not enjoy homework because i practice my sport 4 out of the five days we have school for 4 hours and that’s not even counting the commute time or the fact i still have to shower and eat dinner when i get home. its draining!

i totally agree with you. these people are such boomers

why just why

they do make a really good point, i think that there should be a limit though. hours and hours of homework can be really stressful, and the extra work isn’t making a difference to our learning, but i do believe homework should be optional and extra credit. that would make it for students to not have the leaning stress of a assignment and if you have a low grade you you can catch up.

Studies show that homework improves student achievement in terms of improved grades, test results, and the likelihood to attend college. Research published in the High School Journal indicates that students who spent between 31 and 90 minutes each day on homework “scored about 40 points higher on the SAT-Mathematics subtest than their peers, who reported spending no time on homework each day, on average.” On both standardized tests and grades, students in classes that were assigned homework outperformed 69% of students who didn’t have homework. A majority of studies on homework’s impact – 64% in one meta-study and 72% in another – showed that take home assignments were effective at improving academic achievement. Research by the Institute for the Study of Labor (IZA) concluded that increased homework led to better GPAs and higher probability of college attendance for high school boys. In fact, boys who attended college did more than three hours of additional homework per week in high school.

So how are your measuring student achievement? That’s the real question. The argument that doing homework is simply a tool for teaching responsibility isn’t enough for me. We can teach responsibility in a number of ways. Also the poor argument that parents don’t need to help with homework, and that students can do it on their own, is wishful thinking at best. It completely ignores neurodiverse students. Students in poverty aren’t magically going to find a space to do homework, a friend’s or siblings to help them do it, and snacks to eat. I feel like the author of this piece has never set foot in a classroom of students.

THIS. This article is pathetic coming from a university. So intellectually dishonest, refusing to address the havoc of capitalism and poverty plays on academic success in life. How can they in one sentence use poor kids in an argument and never once address that poor children have access to damn near 0 of the resources affluent kids have? Draw me a picture and let’s talk about feelings lmao what a joke is that gonna put food in their belly so they can have the calories to burn in order to use their brain to study? What about quiet their 7 other siblings that they share a single bedroom with for hours? Is it gonna force the single mom to magically be at home and at work at the same time to cook food while you study and be there to throw an encouraging word?

Also the “parents don’t need to be a parent and be able to guide their kid at all academically they just need to exist in the next room” is wild. Its one thing if a parent straight up is not equipped but to say kids can just figured it out is…. wow coming from an educator What’s next the teacher doesn’t need to teach cause the kid can just follow the packet and figure it out?

Well then get a tutor right? Oh wait you are poor only affluent kids can afford a tutor for their hours of homework a day were they on average have none of the worries a poor child does. Does this address that poor children are more likely to also suffer abuse and mental illness? Like mentioned what about kids that can’t learn or comprehend the forced standardized way? Just let em fail? These children regularly are not in “special education”(some of those are a joke in their own and full of neglect and abuse) programs cause most aren’t even acknowledged as having disabilities or disorders.

But yes all and all those pesky poor kids just aren’t being worked hard enough lol pretty sure poor children’s existence just in childhood is more work, stress, and responsibility alone than an affluent child’s entire life cycle. Love they never once talked about the quality of education in the classroom being so bad between the poor and affluent it can qualify as segregation, just basically blamed poor people for being lazy, good job capitalism for failing us once again!

why the hell?

you should feel bad for saying this, this article can be helpful for people who has to write a essay about it

This is more of a political rant than it is about homework

I know a teacher who has told his students their homework is to find something they are interested in, pursue it and then come share what they learn. The student responses are quite compelling. One girl taught herself German so she could talk to her grandfather. One boy did a research project on Nelson Mandela because the teacher had mentioned him in class. Another boy, a both on the autism spectrum, fixed his family’s computer. The list goes on. This is fourth grade. I think students are highly motivated to learn, when we step aside and encourage them.

The whole point of homework is to give the students a chance to use the material that they have been presented with in class. If they never have the opportunity to use that information, and discover that it is actually useful, it will be in one ear and out the other. As a science teacher, it is critical that the students are challenged to use the material they have been presented with, which gives them the opportunity to actually think about it rather than regurgitate “facts”. Well designed homework forces the student to think conceptually, as opposed to regurgitation, which is never a pretty sight

Wonderful discussion. and yes, homework helps in learning and building skills in students.

not true it just causes kids to stress

Homework can be both beneficial and unuseful, if you will. There are students who are gifted in all subjects in school and ones with disabilities. Why should the students who are gifted get the lucky break, whereas the people who have disabilities suffer? The people who were born with this “gift” go through school with ease whereas people with disabilities struggle with the work given to them. I speak from experience because I am one of those students: the ones with disabilities. Homework doesn’t benefit “us”, it only tears us down and put us in an abyss of confusion and stress and hopelessness because we can’t learn as fast as others. Or we can’t handle the amount of work given whereas the gifted students go through it with ease. It just brings us down and makes us feel lost; because no mater what, it feels like we are destined to fail. It feels like we weren’t “cut out” for success.

homework does help

here is the thing though, if a child is shoved in the face with a whole ton of homework that isn’t really even considered homework it is assignments, it’s not helpful. the teacher should make homework more of a fun learning experience rather than something that is dreaded

This article was wonderful, I am going to ask my teachers about extra, or at all giving homework.

I agree. Especially when you have homework before an exam. Which is distasteful as you’ll need that time to study. It doesn’t make any sense, nor does us doing homework really matters as It’s just facts thrown at us.

Homework is too severe and is just too much for students, schools need to decrease the amount of homework. When teachers assign homework they forget that the students have other classes that give them the same amount of homework each day. Students need to work on social skills and life skills.

I disagree.

Beyond achievement, proponents of homework argue that it can have many other beneficial effects. They claim it can help students develop good study habits so they are ready to grow as their cognitive capacities mature. It can help students recognize that learning can occur at home as well as at school. Homework can foster independent learning and responsible character traits. And it can give parents an opportunity to see what’s going on at school and let them express positive attitudes toward achievement.

Homework is helpful because homework helps us by teaching us how to learn a specific topic.

As a student myself, I can say that I have almost never gotten the full 9 hours of recommended sleep time, because of homework. (Now I’m writing an essay on it in the middle of the night D=)

I am a 10 year old kid doing a report about “Is homework good or bad” for homework before i was going to do homework is bad but the sources from this site changed my mind!

Homeowkr is god for stusenrs

I agree with hunter because homework can be so stressful especially with this whole covid thing no one has time for homework and every one just wants to get back to there normal lives it is especially stressful when you go on a 2 week vaca 3 weeks into the new school year and and then less then a week after you come back from the vaca you are out for over a month because of covid and you have no way to get the assignment done and turned in

As great as homework is said to be in the is article, I feel like the viewpoint of the students was left out. Every where I go on the internet researching about this topic it almost always has interviews from teachers, professors, and the like. However isn’t that a little biased? Of course teachers are going to be for homework, they’re not the ones that have to stay up past midnight completing the homework from not just one class, but all of them. I just feel like this site is one-sided and you should include what the students of today think of spending four hours every night completing 6-8 classes worth of work.

Are we talking about homework or practice? Those are two very different things and can result in different outcomes.

Homework is a graded assignment. I do not know of research showing the benefits of graded assignments going home.

Practice; however, can be extremely beneficial, especially if there is some sort of feedback (not a grade but feedback). That feedback can come from the teacher, another student or even an automated grading program.

As a former band director, I assigned daily practice. I never once thought it would be appropriate for me to require the students to turn in a recording of their practice for me to grade. Instead, I had in-class assignments/assessments that were graded and directly related to the practice assigned.

I would really like to read articles on “homework” that truly distinguish between the two.

oof i feel bad good luck!

thank you guys for the artical because I have to finish an assingment. yes i did cite it but just thanks

thx for the article guys.

Homework is good

I think homework is helpful AND harmful. Sometimes u can’t get sleep bc of homework but it helps u practice for school too so idk.

I agree with this Article. And does anyone know when this was published. I would like to know.

It was published FEb 19, 2019.

Studies have shown that homework improved student achievement in terms of improved grades, test results, and the likelihood to attend college.

i think homework can help kids but at the same time not help kids

This article is so out of touch with majority of homes it would be laughable if it wasn’t so incredibly sad.

There is no value to homework all it does is add stress to already stressed homes. Parents or adults magically having the time or energy to shepherd kids through homework is dome sort of 1950’s fantasy.

What lala land do these teachers live in?

Homework gives noting to the kid

Homework is Bad

homework is bad.

why do kids even have homework?

Comments are closed.

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Rethinking Homework for This Year—and Beyond

A schoolwide effort to reduce homework has led to a renewed focus on ensuring that all work assigned really aids students’ learning.

I used to pride myself on my high expectations, including my firm commitment to accountability for regular homework completion among my students. But the trauma of Covid-19 has prompted me to both reflect and adapt. Now when I think about the purpose and practice of homework, two key concepts guide me: depth over breadth, and student well-being.

Homework has long been the subject of intense debate, and there’s no easy answer with respect to its value. Teachers assign homework for any number of reasons: It’s traditional to do so, it makes students practice their skills and solidify learning, it offers the opportunity for formative assessment, and it creates good study habits and discipline. Then there’s the issue of pace. Throughout my career, I’ve assigned homework largely because there just isn’t enough time to get everything done in class.

A Different Approach

Since classes have gone online, the school where I teach has made a conscious effort as a teaching community to reduce, refine, and distill our curriculum. We have applied guiding questions like: What is most important? What is most transferable? What is most relevant? Refocusing on what matters most has inevitably made us rethink homework.

We have approached both asking and answering these questions through a science of learning lens. In Make It Stick: The Science of Successful Learning , the authors maintain that deep learning is slow learning. Deep learning requires time for retrieval, practice, feedback, reflection, and revisiting content; ultimately it requires struggle, and there is no struggle without time.

As someone who has mastered the curriculum mapping style of “get it done to move on to get that next thing done,” using an approach of “slow down and reduce” has been quite a shift for me. However, the shift has been necessary: What matters most is what’s best for my students, as opposed to my own plans or mandates imposed by others.

Listening to Students

To implement this shift, my high school English department has reduced content and texts both in terms of the amount of units and the content within each unit. We’re more flexible with dates and deadlines. We spend our energy planning the current unit instead of the year’s units. In true partnership with my students, I’m constantly checking in with them via Google forms, Zoom chats, conferences, and Padlet activities. In these check-ins, I specifically ask students how they’re managing the workload for my class and their other classes. I ask them how much homework they’re doing. And I adjust what I do and expect based on what they tell me. For example, when I find out a week is heavy with work in other classes, I make sure to allot more time during class for my tasks. At times I have even delayed or altered one of my assignments.

To be completely transparent, the “old” me is sheepish in admitting that I’ve so dramatically changed my thinking with respect to homework. However, both my students and I have reaped numerous benefits. I’m now laser-focused when designing every minute of my lessons to maximize teaching and learning. Every decision I make is now scrutinized through the lens of absolute worth for my students’ growth: If it doesn’t make the cut, it’s cut. I also take into account what is most relevant to my students.

For example, our 10th-grade English team has redesigned a unit that explores current manifestations of systemic oppression. This unit is new in approach and longer in duration than it was pre-Covid, and it has resulted in some of the deepest and hardest learning, as well as the richest conversations, that I have seen among students in my career. Part of this improved quality comes from the frequent and intentional pauses that I instruct students to take in order to reflect on the content and on the arc of their own learning. The reduction in content that we need to get through in online learning has given me more time to assign reflective prompts, and to let students process their thoughts, whether that’s at the end of a lesson as an exit slip or as an assignment.

Joining Forces to Be Consistent

There’s no doubt this reduction in homework has been a team effort. Within the English department, we have all agreed to allot reading time during class; across each grade level, we’re monitoring the amount of homework our students have collectively; and across the whole high school, we have adopted a framework to help us think through assigning homework.

Within that framework, teachers at the school agree that the best option is for students to complete all work during class. The next best option is for students to finish uncompleted class work at home as a homework assignment of less than 30 minutes. The last option—the one we try to avoid as much as possible—is for students to be assigned and complete new work at home (still less than 30 minutes). I set a maximum time limit for students’ homework tasks (e.g., 30 minutes) and make that clear at the top of every assignment.

This schoolwide approach has increased my humility as a teacher. In the past, I tended to think my subject was more important than everyone else’s, which gave me license to assign more homework. But now I view my students’ experience more holistically: All of their classes and the associated work must be considered, and respected.

As always, I ground this new pedagogical approach not just in what’s best for students’ academic learning, but also what’s best for them socially and emotionally. 2020 has been traumatic for educators, parents, and students. There is no doubt the level of trauma varies greatly ; however, one can’t argue with the fact that homework typically means more screen time when students are already spending most of the day on their devices. They need to rest their eyes. They need to not be sitting at their desks. They need physical activity. They need time to do nothing at all.

Eliminating or reducing homework is a social and emotional intervention, which brings me to the greatest benefit of reducing the homework load: Students are more invested in their relationship with me now that they have less homework. When students trust me to take their time seriously, when they trust me to listen to them and adjust accordingly, when they trust me to care for them... they trust more in general.

And what a beautiful world of learning can be built on trust.

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How to Make a Better Homework Schedule for Your Family

Verywell / Zackary Angeline

Why Homework Schedules Are Effective

• Developing a Schedule

Other Considerations

Do you frequently have homework struggles with your child or teen? Or, does your student procrastinate doing their work? Maybe they even fail to turn in assignments. If any of these scenarios resonate with you, a better homework schedule may help.

A regular homework schedule establishes predictable times when homework is to be completed. Once the homework schedule has been in place for a few weeks, you may even find your child will begin doing their homework without needing to be reminded—although you may still need to monitor their work progress.

If you're struggling with homework completion in your household, or if you're having daily battles about allotting the appropriate amount of time to homework, you're not alone. That's why educators recommend developing a homework schedule—with input from your kids.

Once you set a homework schedule, then there are no questions about when the work will be done. It also communicates clear expectations; having a homework schedule helps kids understand what is required of them. And following the schedule encourages them to develop a good work ethic.

Schedules also help prevent procrastination and instill good habits like completing work on time. Homework routines also improve study skills and encourage kids to plan ahead.

Other benefits include developing your child's work ethic and organizational abilities. By helping your child complete their work at regular intervals, you are modeling how to manage time and projects in the future. When you send them off to college , they will know how to pace their work so they can avoid all-nighters at the end of the semester.

How to Develop a Homework Schedule

To develop a homework schedule, start by talking with your kids. Get their input on how they would like to manage their time and incorporate their homework into their daily routine. A successful homework schedule allows kids to finish their work and also have some free time.

Give Kids an Option

If you ask kids when they want to do their homework, their first answer might be "Never" or "Later." But if you dig a little deeper, your child may tell you what matters to them as they plan their schedule. This information will help you avoid scheduling homework during their favorite television program or when they usually get online to play games with friends.

When you include your child in the decision-making process, you also will get more buy-in from them because they know that their concerns were heard. You don't have to give them their way, but at least considering what they have to say will let them feel included. After all, this homework schedule is about them completing their homework.

Allow for Free Time

Some kids can step through the front door and buckle down on their homework right away. When this happens, they reap the reward of getting their work done early and having the rest of the evening to do what they want. But most kids need to eat and decompress a bit before tackling their assignments.

As you develop your homework schedule, keep in mind your child has already spent at least six hours in class. And this time doesn't include getting to and from school or participation in extracurricular programs . Allow kids some free time before beginning their homework if that's what they need to unwind.

Establish a Timeline

Generally, you can expect about 10 minutes of homework per grade level of school. This means that a third-grade student will need about 30 minutes to complete homework. However, the amount of time needed can vary dramatically between students, teachers, and schools.

Find out how much time your child's teacher expects homework to take each evening. If your child takes a lot of time to complete their work or struggles with homework , talk with the teacher. Your child may need extra instruction on a task or tutoring assistance—or fewer homework assignments.

Pick a Homework Spot

Designate a comfortable and efficient spot for your kids to do their homework. This workspace should be well-lit, stocked with supplies , and quiet. The workspace should allow you to provide some supervision. 

If you have multiple kids trying to complete their homework at one time, you may want to find a separate location for each child. Sometimes kids can complete their homework together at the kitchen table, but other times having siblings around can be distracting. Do what works best for your family.

Put It All Together

Now that you know what your child's needs and concerns are for finding a time to do homework, you need to come up with the actual plan. Creating a homework routine is really just one piece of creating a daily school year routine .

For the homework time itself, get it down on paper so you can see exactly what they will be doing and when they will be doing it. Do this for each day of the week if you have different activities on different weekdays. Students who are assigned larger projects will need to review their homework plans regularly to make adjustments as needed.

Expect your child to work consistently throughout the assigned time. Avoid having multiple homework sessions, such as one before dinner and a second one after dinner. Starting and stopping may mean children may spend more time getting into what they are doing than working continuously.

Be Consistent

Once you have decided on a time to do homework, stick to the plan! It usually takes about three weeks for most children to really get into the habit of their new schedule.

If your child or teen has difficulty maintaining concentration for the length of time that their homework should take, then you may want to carefully consider breaking up the work to take advantage of the time when your child can focus.

This added step is especially important for children and teens with depression or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They may benefit from multiple smaller work sessions and more frequent breaks.

Even though the idea behind creating a homework schedule is to get your child to work consistently and independently, you may need to look over their work when they are done. This is especially important for younger children.

Make sure they understand their assignments and that they completed a reasonable amount of work during the homework session. If you find your child is having trouble actually working during their homework time, troubleshoot to find out what might be the issue. Sometimes kids need extra help and other times they simply need more motivation to get their work done.

If you find that your child continues to struggle with homework even with a schedule in place, you might need to dig a little deeper. Consider discussing your child's issues with their teacher or pediatrician.

Sometimes kids are reluctant to complete their homework because of undiagnosed learning disabilities. It could be that your child struggles with reading comprehension or has a processing disorder. Or it could be that your child is struggling with a mental health issue like anxiety .

A Word From Verywell

Establishing a homework schedule allows children to build some important life skills that will help them as they navigate high school, college, and eventually the workforce. Practice is important when kids are learning new skills. So, having a nightly homework routine enhances your child's learning. Just be sure you aren't requiring homework time at the expense of being a kid. Having time to play is just as important to a child's development as learning new material.

National Institute of Mental Health. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder .

By Lisa Linnell-Olsen Lisa Linnell-Olsen has worked as a support staff educator, and is well-versed in issues of education policy and parenting issues.

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10 Tips for Creating Good Homework Habits to Save Your Sanity

It happens to all of us at some point: screaming matches between parent and child over homework habits.

Just saying the word homework can suck the air right out of the room and throw everyone into high-stress mode. I love vacations because they offer a break from my kids groaning and me having to nag. But once they’re back at school the homework issues and frustration come roaring back.

I have often struggled over whether I have helped too much, nagged too much or was being naïve in believing them when they said they didn’t have homework . I didn’t want to be that parent who constantly emailed and called the teacher. There’s a fine line between being a strong advocate for my children and knowing when they need to take that role over themselves.

Unfortunately, homework is a fact of life—but the parent/child struggle doesn’t have to be. Finding a way to reduce the stress can improve not only the family dynamics, but also your child’s ability to focus and retain information, which can help build self-esteem.

So take a look at your child’s homework routine. And if there isn’t a routine, now is a good time to begin:

How to Start Good Homework Habits

1. it’s not too late.

Don’t worry if you haven’t already established good habits. Do it today. Set a routine now because the amount and difficulty of homework continues to grow.

2. Find the right time

After experimenting a bit, I found that our kids did best when they had a schedule. They came home from school, had a snack, and then would dive into the homework. Even when they had friends over, we stuck with the schedule and they all settled into it together. It takes the pressure off because they know they get to hang later.

3. Designate a space

Help your child set up an area dedicated to homework . Ours was our kitchen table because when my kids were young, they liked having me sit with them. My daughter continued that practice until senior year and I think it helped her stay focused. My son eventually moved his spot to another room. Wherever they do their homework, try to keep it a clean space. Messy areas can feel chaotic and be distracting.

4. Break work into bite-size pieces

Sometimes all of the homework is just too overwhelming. That’s especially true if you have a child with ADHD or learning differentials. Work with them to break down the steps they need to take to get the homework done. Setting smaller, manageable goals will make them feel they’ve accomplished something.

5. Give them breaks

Kids can’t just sit still for long periods of time. My daughter, who has ADHD, likes playing music or moving onto the deck when she needs a break. Letting them take a break, and encouraging them to decide when to get back to the homework, takes away the power struggle.

6. A tip for textbooks

Our schools have enough textbooks for the kids to use one in the classroom and leave a second copy at home. This means fewer books are lost and the kids stay better organized, not to mention the ability to actually carry their backpacks! If your school doesn’t have the resources for this, you may be able to access textbooks online or rent them from Amazon.

7. Offer suggestions for coping

Teach stressed-out kids a few mindfulness techniques. Slow, deep breathing, playing white noise, or using an app like Calm can all be helpful for managing homework stress, as well as helping them in other areas of their lives.

8. Feed the beast

No matter how old you are, it’s really hard to concentrate when you’re hungry. Hunger can also make kids cranky without them knowing why. So definitely offer them a snack before or during homework sessions.

9. Encouragement goes a long way

If you believe they can do it, they will too. School can be stressful. When they’re frustrated or say they can’t do it, add this word: yet . As in, “You can’t do it yet .”  Yet is the best little word for offering gentle encouragement .

10. Just relax

Sometimes you need to take a step back. You can give your kids the best environment for doing their homework, but you can’t do it for them. Yes, it’s hard when it feels like grades count so much, but once you’ve prepared them and given them all of the tools to succeed, you need to let go and trust they’ll figure it out.

Dana Baker-Williams is a writer, not-so-perfect mom of two, and a parent coach and teen/child mentor. She offers advice from the trenches, sharing the good, the bad and the anxious—and always the heart and humor.

How to Use Homework to Support Student Success

Covid has brought many changes in education. what does it mean for homework.

Posted January 12, 2022 | Reviewed by Ekua Hagan

• Generally, homework should include about 10 minutes per night per grade level.
• The value of homework is debated, with questions about the right amount and potential for inequity.
• Families should view homework as a communication tool, strive to be good helpers, and monitor balance.

School assignments that a student is expected to do outside of the regular school day—that’s homework. The general guideline is 10 minutes of nightly homework per grade level beginning after kindergarten. This amounts to just a few minutes for younger elementary students to up to 2 hours for high school students.

The guidance seems straightforward enough, so why is homework such a controversial topic? School disruptions, including extended periods of remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, have magnified the controversies yet also have provided an opportunity to rethink the purpose and value of homework.

Debates about the value of homework center around two primary issues: amount and inequity.

First, the amount of assigned homework may be much more than the recommended guidelines. Families report their children are stressed out over the time spent doing homework. Too much homework can challenge well-being given the restricted time available for sleep, exercise, and social connection. In a 2015 study , for example, parents reported their early elementary children received almost three times the recommended guidelines. In high school, researchers found an average of three hours of homework per night for students living in economically privileged communities.

Second, homework can perpetuate inequities. Students attending school in less economically privileged communities may receive little to no homework, or have difficulty completing it due to limited access to needed technology. This can translate into fewer opportunities to learn and may contribute to gaps in achievement.

There isn’t a ton of research on the effects of homework, and available studies certainly do not provide a simple answer. For example, a 2006 synthesis of studies suggested a positive influence between homework completion and academic achievement for middle and high school students. Supporters also point out that homework offers additional opportunities to engage in learning and that it can foster independent learning habits such as planning and a sense of responsibility. A more recent study involving 13-year-old students in Spain found higher test scores for those who were regularly assigned homework in math and science, with an optimal time around one hour—which is roughly aligned with recommendations. However, the researchers noted that ability to independently do the work, student effort, and prior achievement were more important contributors than time spent.

Opponents of homework maintain that the academic benefit does not outweigh the toll on well-being. Researchers have observed student stress, physical health problems, and lack of life balance, especially when the time spent goes over the recommended guidelines. In a survey of adolescents , over half reported the amount and type of homework they received to be a primary source of stress in their lives. In addition, vast differences exist in access and availability of supports, such as internet connection, adult assistance, or even a place to call home, as 1.5 million children experience homelessness in the United States.

The COVID-19 pandemic has re-energized discussion about homework practices, with the goal to advance recommendations about how, when, and with whom it can be best used. Here’s a summary of key strategies:

Strategies for Educators

Make sure the tasks are meaningful and matched. First, the motto “ quality over quantity ” can guide decisions about homework. Homework is not busy-work, and instead should get students excited about learning. Emphasize activities that facilitate choice and interest to extend learning, like choose your own reading adventure or math games. Second, each student should be able to complete homework independently with success. Think about Goldilocks: To be effective, assignments should be just right for each learner. One example of how do this efficiently is through online learning platforms that can efficiently adjust to skill level and can be completed in a reasonable amount of time.

Ensure access to resources for task completion. One step toward equity is to ensure access to necessary resources such as time, space, and materials. Teach students about preparing for homework success, allocating classroom time to model and practice good study habits such as setting up their physical environment, time management , and chunking tasks. Engage in conversations with students and families to problem-solve challenges When needed, connect students with homework supports available through after-school clubs, other community supports, or even within a dedicated block during the school day.

Be open to revisiting homework policies and practices. The days of penalizing students for not completing homework should be long gone. Homework is a tool for practicing content and learning self- management . With that in mind, provide opportunities for students to communicate needs, and respond by revising assignments or allowing them to turn in on alternative dates. Engage in adult professional learning about high-quality homework , from value (Should I assign this task?) to evaluation (How should this be graded? Did that homework assignment result in expected outcomes?). Monitor how things are going by looking at completion rates and by asking students for their feedback. Be willing to adapt the homework schedule or expectations based on what is learned.

Strategies for Families

Understand how to be a good helper. When designed appropriately, students should be able to complete homework with independence. Limit homework wars by working to be a good helper. Hovering, micromanaging, or doing homework for them may be easiest in the moment but does not help build their independence. Be a good helper by asking guiding questions, providing hints, or checking for understanding. Focus your assistance on setting up structures for homework success, like space and time.

Use homework as a tool for communication. Use homework as a vehicle to foster family-school communication. Families can use homework as an opportunity to open conversations about specific assignments or classes, peer relationships, or even sleep quality that may be impacting student success. For younger students, using a daily or weekly home-school notebook or planner can be one way to share information. For older students, help them practice communicating their needs and provide support as needed.

Make sure to balance wellness. Like adults, children need a healthy work-life balance. Positive social connection and engagement in pleasurable activities are important core principles to foster well-being . Monitor the load of homework and other structured activities to make sure there is time in the daily routine for play. Play can mean different things to different children: getting outside, reading for pleasure, and yes, even gaming. Just try to ensure that activities include a mix of health-focused activities such as physical movement or mindfulness downtime.

Sandra M. Chafouleas, Ph.D., is a Distinguished Professor in the Neag School of Education at the University of Connecticut.

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Create Good Homework Habits With This 3-Step Plan

Motivate your child to finish their schoolwork successfully..

If your elementary schooler doesn’t like reading or doing homework without resistance, you’re not alone. 

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to spark your child’s interest in learning outside of the classroom. Creating structure in your child’s day with an after-school schedule will help them stay focused and avoid homework fatigue.

Here are tips to help your child use their after-school time well and ease some of the stress you both may be experiencing.

1. Set Up a Schedule 

Agree on a “lights out” time and work backward. Here's a sample homework schedule to help you with your planning. This schedule is designed for a child who dislikes doing homework, so it allows multiple breaks throughout the evening. (It’s worth noting, however, that some children do their best work right after school, when energy levels are still high.)

• 4:00 p.m.  Rest, relax. Kids need space and downtime in their schedules.
• 4:30 p.m.–5:30 p.m.  Sports, art, and other planned activities.
• 5:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m.  Homework time! Have your child do theirs in the kitchen or somewhere close by while dinner is being prepared, so they don’t feel isolated and can ask questions. If your child has a dedicated “homework nook,” be sure to pop in often to see how they’re doing and offer words of encouragement.
• 6:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. Dinner and quality family time.
• 7:30 p.m.–8:00 p.m.  Homework wrap-up (if needed).
• 8:00 p.m.–8:30 p.m. Free time! If your family typically watches TV in the evening, you might consider switching on a streaming series or documentary that complements your child’s classroom instruction.
• 8:30 p.m.– 9:00 p.m. Nightly read-aloud! This is the time to get your 20-30 minutes of daily reading in for stronger literacy skills. (Here’s some benefits of reading to your elementary schooler nightly .)

2. Talk to the Teacher 

Your child’s teacher can tell you how much time students should be spending on homework nightly. Generally, students in elementary school should have between 10 and 15 minutes of homework for each grade year. This means a child in 4th grade may have between 40 and 60 minutes of homework a night; often this includes some reading.

Teachers will also have ideas for motivating students who are disinterested in doing homework. When you speak with your child’s teacher, raise any concerns you have about at-home learning, like if your child struggles to do their homework, since these may be signs of a learning disability .

Your child’s teacher will be able to discuss in-class performance, and together the two of you can create a day-to-night plan that promotes your child’s success.

3. Develop the Homework Habit

Once you establish a schedule that works for you and your child — including any limits on TV and tech time — be sure to stick to it. Consistency is key to developing good homework habits.

These are valuable years for teaching your child how to keep schoolwork, play, fitness, and other activities in balance. You’ll be helping them with an important life lesson — and hopefully establishing a little more harmony at home.

Get ready for your child to go back to school with our guide — it's full of recommended books, teacher tips, homework strategies for parents , and more resources for a successful school year. 

Shop workbooks to support your child’s skills below. You can shop all books and activities at The Scholastic Store .

For more quick tips and book recommendations, sign up for our Scholastic Parents newsletter!

You'll also get 10% off your first order at the Scholastic Store Online.

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Six Ways to Establish Good Homework Habits

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When returning to school after summer break, many students are excited to see their friends and return to the routine of school. Although, many students and parents alike dread the idea of homework again. The topic can haunt parents as the stacks of flashcards and worksheets start to come out of backpacks. Many families deal with frustrations and tears from homework time, and the jury is still out on whether or not homework has a positive or negative effect on students. Many families have arguments about homework, and some students struggle tremendously to complete their homework. It can be a constant battle of wills with the child on one side and the parent on the other.

These frustrations and arguments that arise from homework are sometimes the results of poor preparation. Adjusting to homework time can be difficult for many students as they are already mentally spent from working all day in school. Homework, however, is a fact of life for most students, so it is important to establish good homework habits as soon as possible. Establishing good homework habits can make the routine smoother, studying more successful and it can also make everyone more relaxed and happier. Teaching good homework habits at a young age teaches the child self-discipline and good work habits. Having good homework habits can make the student more successful in school which leads to a more successful life. To establish good homework habits, try some of these tips:

• Create a routine

Whether you child begins homework as soon as they get home or they start working on it after dinner, creating a consistent routine tells the child what to expect. Knowing what to expect will prevent arguments and frustration from the child. Some students need time to recuperate after school ends while others do their best work while the information is still fresh in their mind. Experiment with different routines and see what works best. A child that struggles in school may benefit from taking a break from studies and instead play a video game which allows them to win and be a hero. Once their self-confidence and self-esteem are higher, working on homework may be more successful as they feel less defeated. Allow your child to have some input on what time of day they would like to complete their homework.

• Designate a place for homework

Some students work well in their bedrooms while others are successful at the kitchen table. No matter where it is at, designate a place for homework to be done. This place should be well lit and free from distractions such as television or younger siblings that may interfere. If you find your child fidgeting or distracted in an area, try out a new area to see if their concentration improves.

• Provide materials

Get a tub or designate a drawer to homework materials. Having a functioning pencil sharpener, markers, a ruler and other supplies will ensure that they will have the supplies they need to complete the homework. Sharpen several pencils, so they are ready to go should a pencil break and also provide a basic calculator for the student to check their answers. Having the materials already provided will prevent wasted time spent on searching for or preparing materials.

• Observe your child doing homework

Keep track of what your child is doing. Review their homework before they start. Did they learn about this in class today or is it new information? Note any distractions that occur and try to prevent them in the future. Is your child fidgeting or unable to focus? Rearranging the routine to allow for some downtime in between school and homework may help a child focus. Is your child struggling with a subject? Check their answers periodically to be sure they understand what is expected of them.

• Do not do their homework for them

Sometimes it can take serious self-control to not take the paper from them and write in the correct answer. While homework can be frustrating, it is often a necessary evil and is only productive when the child does it. If the parent helps too much or does the homework for them, the student does not learn anything and will likely struggle as a result. Help the student should a problem arise, walk them through math problems and give them hints on answers. However, should your child struggle on each question of a subject on a consistent basis, it may be time to contact the teacher with concerns.

• Stay in contact with the teacher

Usually, your child’s teacher will inform you of the expectations for homework whether it is through a presentation or a flyer sent home. Learn the expectations and ask the teacher any questions you may have. Ask if the homework is supposed to reinforce what is taught at school or prepare the student for what’s coming up next. Does the teacher expect all the answers to be correct or does she want the child to get incorrect answers so she can address the missed problems if there are any? If your child is ill for longer than a day, contact the teacher right away to get a homework packet, so your child doesn’t fall behind.

Establishing a routine, making expectations clear, providing materials, preventing distractions and helping your child through problems are all ways to improve their success in homework. Regardless of your opinion on homework, it is often part of the classroom, and the students must complete it to get a passing grade. Creating a distraction free environment will prevent mistakes and confusion as well as speed up the process. Your child’s success in school largely depends on their ability to complete homework, and the good homework habits begin with you. Show your child how to establish routines, work efficiently and meet expectations with homework as you will not only help them get better grades in school, but you will also teach them self-discipline which will go a long way.

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When returning to school after summer break, many students are excited to see their friends and return to the routine of school. Although, many students and parents alike dread the idea of homework again. The topic can haunt parents as the stacks of flashcards and worksheets start to come out of backpacks. Many families deal with frustrations and tears from homework time, and the jury is still out on whether or not homework has a positive or negative effect on students. Many families have arguments about homework, and some students struggle tremendously to complete their homework. It can be a constant battle of wills with the child on one side and the parent on the other.

These frustrations and arguments that arise from homework are sometimes the results of poor preparation. Adjusting to homework time can be difficult for many students as they are already mentally spent from working all day in school. Homework, however, is a fact of life for most students, so it is important to establish good homework habits as soon as possible. Establishing good homework habits can make the routine smoother, studying more successful and it can also make everyone more relaxed and happier. Teaching good homework habits at a young age teaches the child self-discipline and good work habits. Having good homework habits can make the student more successful in school which leads to a more successful life. To establish good homework habits, try some of these tips:

• Create a routine

Whether you child begins homework as soon as they get home or they start working on it after dinner, creating a consistent routine tells the child what to expect. Knowing what to expect will prevent arguments and frustration from the child. Some students need time to recuperate after school ends while others do their best work while the information is still fresh in their mind. Experiment with different routines and see what works best. A child that struggles in school may benefit from taking a break from studies and instead play a video game which allows them to win and be a hero. Once their self-confidence and self-esteem are higher, working on homework may be more successful as they feel less defeated. Allow your child to have some input on what time of day they would like to complete their homework.

• Designate a place for homework

Some students work well in their bedrooms while others are successful at the kitchen table. No matter where it is at, designate a place for homework to be done. This place should be well lit and free from distractions such as television or younger siblings that may interfere. If you find your child fidgeting or distracted in an area, try out a new area to see if their concentration improves.

• Provide materials

Get a tub or designate a drawer to homework materials. Having a functioning pencil sharpener, markers, a ruler and other supplies will ensure that they will have the supplies they need to complete the homework. Sharpen several pencils, so they are ready to go should a pencil break and also provide a basic calculator for the student to check their answers. Having the materials already provided will prevent wasted time spent on searching for or preparing materials.

• Observe your child doing homework

Keep track of what your child is doing. Review their homework before they start. Did they learn about this in class today or is it new information? Note any distractions that occur and try to prevent them in the future. Is your child fidgeting or unable to focus? Rearranging the routine to allow for some downtime in between school and homework may help a child focus. Is your child struggling with a subject? Check their answers periodically to be sure they understand what is expected of them.

• Do not do their homework for them

Sometimes it can take serious self-control to not take the paper from them and write in the correct answer. While homework can be frustrating, it is often a necessary evil and is only productive when the child does it. If the parent helps too much or does the homework for them, the student does not learn anything and will likely struggle as a result. Help the student should a problem arise, walk them through math problems and give them hints on answers. However, should your child struggle on each question of a subject on a consistent basis, it may be time to contact the teacher with concerns.

• Stay in contact with the teacher

Usually, your child’s teacher will inform you of the expectations for homework whether it is through a presentation or a flyer sent home. Learn the expectations and ask the teacher any questions you may have. Ask if the homework is supposed to reinforce what is taught at school or prepare the student for what’s coming up next. Does the teacher expect all the answers to be correct or does she want the child to get incorrect answers so she can address the missed problems if there are any? If your child is ill for longer than a day, contact the teacher right away to get a homework packet, so your child doesn’t fall behind.

Establishing a routine, making expectations clear, providing materials, preventing distractions and helping your child through problems are all ways to improve their success in homework. Regardless of your opinion on homework, it is often part of the classroom, and the students must complete it to get a passing grade. Creating a distraction free environment will prevent mistakes and confusion as well as speed up the process. Your child’s success in school largely depends on their ability to complete homework, and the good homework habits begin with you. Show your child how to establish routines, work efficiently and meet expectations with homework as you will not only help them get better grades in school, but you will also teach them self-discipline which will go a long way.

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by: Leslie Crawford | Updated: December 12, 2023

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You know the drill. It’s 10:15 p.m., and the cardboard-and-toothpick Golden Gate Bridge is collapsing. The pages of polynomials have been abandoned. The paper on the Battle of Waterloo seems to have frozen in time with Napoleon lingering eternally over his breakfast at Le Caillou. Then come the tears and tantrums — while we parents wonder, Does the gain merit all this pain? Is this just too much homework?

However the drama unfolds night after night, year after year, most parents hold on to the hope that homework (after soccer games, dinner, flute practice, and, oh yes, that childhood pastime of yore known as playing) advances their children academically.

But what does homework really do for kids? Is the forest’s worth of book reports and math and spelling sheets the average American student completes in their 12 years of primary schooling making a difference? Or is it just busywork?

Homework haterz

Whether or not homework helps, or even hurts, depends on who you ask. If you ask my 12-year-old son, Sam, he’ll say, “Homework doesn’t help anything. It makes kids stressed-out and tired and makes them hate school more.”

Nothing more than common kid bellyaching?

Maybe, but in the fractious field of homework studies, it’s worth noting that Sam’s sentiments nicely synopsize one side of the ivory tower debate. Books like The End of Homework , The Homework Myth , and The Case Against Homework the film Race to Nowhere , and the anguished parent essay “ My Daughter’s Homework is Killing Me ” make the case that homework, by taking away precious family time and putting kids under unneeded pressure, is an ineffective way to help children become better learners and thinkers.

One Canadian couple took their homework apostasy all the way to the Supreme Court of Canada. After arguing that there was no evidence that it improved academic performance, they won a ruling that exempted their two children from all homework.

So what’s the real relationship between homework and academic achievement?

How much is too much?

To answer this question, researchers have been doing their homework on homework, conducting and examining hundreds of studies. Chris Drew Ph.D., founder and editor at The Helpful Professor recently compiled multiple statistics revealing the folly of today’s after-school busy work. Does any of the data he listed below ring true for you?

• 45 percent of parents think homework is too easy for their child, primarily because it is geared to the lowest standard under the Common Core State Standards .

• 74 percent of students say homework is a source of stress , defined as headaches, exhaustion, sleep deprivation, weight loss, and stomach problems.

• Students in high-performing high schools spend an average of 3.1 hours a night on homework , even though 1 to 2 hours is the optimal duration, according to a peer-reviewed study .

Not included in the list above is the fact many kids have to abandon activities they love — like sports and clubs — because homework deprives them of the needed time to enjoy themselves with other pursuits.

Conversely, The Helpful Professor does list a few pros of homework, noting it teaches discipline and time management, and helps parents know what’s being taught in the class.

The oft-bandied rule on homework quantity — 10 minutes a night per grade (starting from between 10 to 20 minutes in first grade) — is listed on the National Education Association’s website and the National Parent Teacher Association’s website , but few schools follow this rule.

Do you think your child is doing excessive homework? Harris Cooper Ph.D., author of a meta-study on homework , recommends talking with the teacher. “Often there is a miscommunication about the goals of homework assignments,” he says. “What appears to be problematic for kids, why they are doing an assignment, can be cleared up with a conversation.” Also, Cooper suggests taking a careful look at how your child is doing the assignments. It may seem like they’re taking two hours, but maybe your child is wandering off frequently to get a snack or getting distracted.

Less is often more

If your child is dutifully doing their work but still burning the midnight oil, it’s worth intervening to make sure your child gets enough sleep. A 2012 study of 535 high school students found that proper sleep may be far more essential to brain and body development.

For elementary school-age children, Cooper’s research at Duke University shows there is no measurable academic advantage to homework. For middle-schoolers, Cooper found there is a direct correlation between homework and achievement if assignments last between one to two hours per night. After two hours, however, achievement doesn’t improve. For high schoolers, Cooper’s research suggests that two hours per night is optimal. If teens have more than two hours of homework a night, their academic success flatlines. But less is not better. The average high school student doing homework outperformed 69 percent of the students in a class with no homework.

Many schools are starting to act on this research. A Florida superintendent abolished homework in her 42,000 student district, replacing it with 20 minutes of nightly reading. She attributed her decision to “ solid research about what works best in improving academic achievement in students .”

More family time

A 2020 survey by Crayola Experience reports 82 percent of children complain they don’t have enough quality time with their parents. Homework deserves much of the blame. “Kids should have a chance to just be kids and do things they enjoy, particularly after spending six hours a day in school,” says Alfie Kohn, author of The Homework Myth . “It’s absurd to insist that children must be engaged in constructive activities right up until their heads hit the pillow.”

By far, the best replacement for homework — for both parents and children — is bonding, relaxing time together.

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Is Homework Good for Kids? Here’s What the Research Says

A s kids return to school, debate is heating up once again over how they should spend their time after they leave the classroom for the day.

The no-homework policy of a second-grade teacher in Texas went viral last week , earning praise from parents across the country who lament the heavy workload often assigned to young students. Brandy Young told parents she would not formally assign any homework this year, asking students instead to eat dinner with their families, play outside and go to bed early.

But the question of how much work children should be doing outside of school remains controversial, and plenty of parents take issue with no-homework policies, worried their kids are losing a potential academic advantage. Here’s what you need to know:

For decades, the homework standard has been a “10-minute rule,” which recommends a daily maximum of 10 minutes of homework per grade level. Second graders, for example, should do about 20 minutes of homework each night. High school seniors should complete about two hours of homework each night. The National PTA and the National Education Association both support that guideline.

But some schools have begun to give their youngest students a break. A Massachusetts elementary school has announced a no-homework pilot program for the coming school year, lengthening the school day by two hours to provide more in-class instruction. “We really want kids to go home at 4 o’clock, tired. We want their brain to be tired,” Kelly Elementary School Principal Jackie Glasheen said in an interview with a local TV station . “We want them to enjoy their families. We want them to go to soccer practice or football practice, and we want them to go to bed. And that’s it.”

A New York City public elementary school implemented a similar policy last year, eliminating traditional homework assignments in favor of family time. The change was quickly met with outrage from some parents, though it earned support from other education leaders.

New solutions and approaches to homework differ by community, and these local debates are complicated by the fact that even education experts disagree about what’s best for kids.

The research

The most comprehensive research on homework to date comes from a 2006 meta-analysis by Duke University psychology professor Harris Cooper, who found evidence of a positive correlation between homework and student achievement, meaning students who did homework performed better in school. The correlation was stronger for older students—in seventh through 12th grade—than for those in younger grades, for whom there was a weak relationship between homework and performance.

Cooper’s analysis focused on how homework impacts academic achievement—test scores, for example. His report noted that homework is also thought to improve study habits, attitudes toward school, self-discipline, inquisitiveness and independent problem solving skills. On the other hand, some studies he examined showed that homework can cause physical and emotional fatigue, fuel negative attitudes about learning and limit leisure time for children. At the end of his analysis, Cooper recommended further study of such potential effects of homework.

Despite the weak correlation between homework and performance for young children, Cooper argues that a small amount of homework is useful for all students. Second-graders should not be doing two hours of homework each night, he said, but they also shouldn’t be doing no homework.

Not all education experts agree entirely with Cooper’s assessment.

Cathy Vatterott, an education professor at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, supports the “10-minute rule” as a maximum, but she thinks there is not sufficient proof that homework is helpful for students in elementary school.

“Correlation is not causation,” she said. “Does homework cause achievement, or do high achievers do more homework?”

Vatterott, the author of Rethinking Homework: Best Practices That Support Diverse Needs , thinks there should be more emphasis on improving the quality of homework tasks, and she supports efforts to eliminate homework for younger kids.

“I have no concerns about students not starting homework until fourth grade or fifth grade,” she said, noting that while the debate over homework will undoubtedly continue, she has noticed a trend toward limiting, if not eliminating, homework in elementary school.

The issue has been debated for decades. A TIME cover in 1999 read: “Too much homework! How it’s hurting our kids, and what parents should do about it.” The accompanying story noted that the launch of Sputnik in 1957 led to a push for better math and science education in the U.S. The ensuing pressure to be competitive on a global scale, plus the increasingly demanding college admissions process, fueled the practice of assigning homework.

“The complaints are cyclical, and we’re in the part of the cycle now where the concern is for too much,” Cooper said. “You can go back to the 1970s, when you’ll find there were concerns that there was too little, when we were concerned about our global competitiveness.”

Cooper acknowledged that some students really are bringing home too much homework, and their parents are right to be concerned.

“A good way to think about homework is the way you think about medications or dietary supplements,” he said. “If you take too little, they’ll have no effect. If you take too much, they can kill you. If you take the right amount, you’ll get better.”

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6 Tips to Help Build Good Homework Habits

6 tips to help build good homework habits.

Parents have many ways to get involved in their children’s education. One way is by helping them build good homework habits for long-term success in school.

In addition to meeting educational needs, doing homework teaches your child to be responsible and to develop fundamental skills, such as organization, problem solving and time management.

Homework can sometimes be stressful and aggravating for parents and students alike, however.

For parents, these are common questions that might come up:

• Is my child spending too much time on the cellphone and playing videos and not enough doing homework?
• Does my child have too many extracurricular activities going on after school, leaving less time for homework?
• Does my child need help with homework? How much should I do?

Whatever the situation may be, know that you as a parent can do a lot to help your child develop good homework habits and head off any potential conflict over homework.

Know also that your pediatrician is ready to help with any developmental or learning concern . Learning disabilities are often not noticed until the child reaches school age.

“If you have any concerns about your child’s learning and development, contact your pediatrician and share your specific concerns,” says Jessica Yu, MD , a pediatrician at Scripps Clinic Mission Valley .

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is a good resource for parental tips for developing good homework habits, including the following:

1. Be a helper, not a “doer”

It’s important to know your boundaries when it comes to helping with homework. It may be tempting as a parent to get carried away and start doing your child’s homework to ensure a good grade or complete it on time. But remember homework assignments are made by the teacher and it is your child’s responsibility to finish and turn in their homework on time.

“The key is to provide guidance, not answers. Have your child identify what help is needed or if there is a problem that is affecting their schoolwork,” Dr. Yu says.

Have your child identify what he or she can do on their own and be ready to help when necessary. It could mean doing something as simple as providing flashcards to aid their learning.

Parents who are always correcting and striving to get their child to do the perfect job will not be teaching their child the lessons of owning up to responsibility.

You may ask to see completed work to ensure that directions are being followed, but don’t try to correct every flaw. You may ask if there might be another way to write something or to show the thought process behind a math problem, but don’t put words on paper or solve problems for your child.

If you can’t figure out the problem yourself — junior high math may be long forgotten by many — and your child is struggling, it may be time to ask the teacher for help.

2. Set up a homework schedule

Most children do best with a set routine and expectations around homework. Children develop different homework patterns, however.

Some prefer to do homework in the afternoon after returning from school. Others prefer doing homework in the evening after taking a break from a long day in school. Some engage in extracurricular activities, which is also good for their development, but may leave less time for homework. Some need help making the transition from playing to doing homework.

A 10-minute warning or reminder may help a child get ready mentally to tackle homework. “Just don’t let these notices become a source of conflict between you and your child,” Dr. Yu says.

A homework contract can help prevent homework conflicts. There could be an agreement to go over the week’s schedule on Sunday night and set an allotted time for homework.

3. Provide a quiet location for homework

Children need a consistent workspace in their bedroom or another part of the home that is quiet, well-lit and conducive to doing homework.

You can provide a comfortable chair and make sure they have all the supplies they may need nearby. Or, you can set up a homework station in an area that you can easily access, especially if you want to monitor their internet use.

If your child doesn’t have access to a computer or the internet at home, work with teachers and school administration to address these needs.

4. Limit screen time during homework

Managing media use can be tough. But children need to keep TV and video distractions at a minimum when they are doing homework. Excessive screen time can also have negative effects on sleep and lead to obesity and depression.

AAP recommends setting up a family media plan that can be customized to meet your family’s needs, including priorities like making sure to leave time for homework.

If cell phone calls and/or texting are distracting, the plan can call for that to stop during homework time. The plan can call for limits on the time spent watching TV or playing video games on school nights.

5. Praise the efforts, not the end results

Children need to learn perseverance. Praising their efforts in getting things done reinforces that value.

Getting a good grade deserves praise. But it’s just as important to celebrate completing a project or assignment.

With large projects, you may want to teach them how to complete their efforts in small chunks. That way you are also teaching them how to organize and manage their time.

6. Discuss concerns with your child’s teacher

If you see that your child is clearly struggling with concepts, it may be time to talk to the teacher. This is way more helpful than battling with your child or doing your child’s work. Remember you are in a partnership with your child’s teacher when it comes to his or her education.

Your child’s teacher can tell you what’s going on in the classroom, if homework assignments are being turned in and how well they are done. The teacher can advise what you can do at home to help your child improve in any subject he or she may be struggling with.

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• Health and Wellness

Daniel Wong

40 Good Habits for Students to Practise Every Day

Updated on February 15, 2024 By Daniel Wong 56 Comments

Why are some students more successful than others?

While there are many possible reasons, it often comes down to one thing…

They know the good habits for students they ought to practise.

Students with good habits achieve the most success. These habits give them the structure they need to reach their goals.

So I’ve created a list of 40 good habits for students to practise every day.

As you develop these habits, you’ll become a happier, healthier and more successful student.

Enter your email below to download a PDF summary of this article. The PDF contains all the tips found here, plus  5 exclusive bonus tips that you’ll only find in the PDF.

Here are the best habits for students.

Good habits for students are ones that will serve you well in all areas of your life, not just in school .

The following list includes habits to improve your physical health, motivation, self-discipline, and more.

1. Write down the three to five most important tasks to accomplish for the day.

Without a written list to help you stay on track, it’s easy to overlook and put off important tasks.

By writing down your three to five most important tasks for the day, you’ll focus on the critical tasks, not just the urgent ones.

If you want to study smart and become more productive , start cultivating this habit today.

2. Update your calendar with key dates and events.

A calendar is a great way to stay on schedule, day after day, while also planning for the future.

Using a calendar for things related to school is one of the most important habits for students to stay organised.

You can use a physical calendar or an online one like Google Calendar to record test dates, project submission deadlines, term breaks, etc.

This way, you’ll be on top of things at all times.

3. Work on your most challenging task during your most productive time of day.

Tackle your most challenging task when your mind and body are fresh.

This will ensure that you have the energy to complete the task most efficiently. It’ll make the rest of your day more productive too!

4. Write down at least one thing you’re thankful for.

Are you thankful for your friends? How about your family? What about your education?

Gratitude is a good habit for students to practise daily. It only takes a couple of minutes to write down something you’re thankful for .

But this useful habit will help you find long-term success and happiness.

5. Perform focused deep breathing for two minutes.

Stress can negatively impact academic performance, but there’s a quick solution to this.

Deep breathing is scientifically proven to reduce stress and even increase willpower.

So take just two minutes and perform focused deep breathing every day.

I recommend that you do these deep breathing exercises right before tests and exams to relieve stress as well.

6. Read your favourite inspirational quote.

For a quick boost of motivation to study , read your favourite inspirational quote.

My personal favourite is this one by Jim Rohn: “Don’t wish it were easier. Wish you were better.” If you don’t have a favourite, here is a list for you to refer to.

7. Perform a random act of kindness.

You’ll feel better about yourself, as well as life in general, when you get into the excellent habit of performing a random act of kindness at least once a day.

This good habit for students to cultivate doesn’t require a lot of time.

It could be something as simple as giving someone a genuine compliment or giving up your seat on the bus.

8. Get five minutes of sun.

Be sure to include going outside in your list of healthy habits to practise.

There are many benefits of getting some sun every day.

For example, it improves brain function, enhances sleep quality, and reduces the risk of certain cancers.

So don’t spend your entire day cooped up inside!

9. Do something that scares you.

This is the best way to build courage and develop confidence.

Yes, it’s scary to face your fears, so I encourage you to start small. List your fears and decide on a tiny action you can take today to overcome just one of those fears.

10. Spend time with like-minded people whom you want to learn from.

As a student, you come in contact with many people throughout your day.

Spend time with like-minded individuals whom you want to learn from.

These people will change the way you think, while giving you advice about how to improve your life.

11. Eat breakfast within 30 minutes of waking up.

Eating breakfast is a healthy habit for students that you shouldn’t overlook.

It’s easy to find a reason to skip breakfast, but this is a mistake.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and you should eat it within 30 minutes of rising.

This will give you the energy you need to take on the day.

12. Drink at least eight glasses of water.

The health benefits of drinking water are tremendous. Everyone knows they should drink eight glasses of water a day, but few people actually do this.

Make this a habit and your body will thank you down the road.

13. Exercise for at least 15 minutes.

You may not have time to hit the gym for an hour or two, but a short burst of daily exercise is an essential healthy habit for students.

Everyone can find 15 minutes in their day to exercise.

This can be as simple as going for a brisk walk or doing some calisthenics.

Over time, you’ll find that you’re more energetic and that you fall sick less often too.

14. Go to bed and wake up at roughly the same time every day.

It’s hard to be well-rested when your sleep schedule is all over the place.

You might find it hard to go to bed and wake up at exactly the same time every day, but try to stay within a 30-minute window.

15. Get at least eight hours of sleep every night.

Getting enough sleep is a healthy habit that many students struggle to incorporate in their lives.

Most people need at least eight hours of sleep every night in order to function optimally.

So set your schedule to ensure that you’re working toward this goal.

(Learn how getting eight hours of sleep a night helped me to become a better – and happier – student.)

16. Follow a bedtime routine.

If you lack a bedtime routine, you may find it difficult to wind down and enter “sleep mode”.

Establish a routine that you can follow, night in and night out. This can be as simple as:

• Take a shower
• Dim the lights
• Put on some relaxing music
• Read a few pages of your favourite book
• Journal for a few minutes
• Turn off the lights

17. Set up your phone so that you receive reminders for things you have to do.

With a reminder or task app like Todoist , you can turn your phone into your personal assistant.

Set up your device to remind you of things you have to do, a meeting you have scheduled with your advisor, or a phone call you need to make.

18. If you’re trying to change a bad habit, set up a reward and punishment system.

Bad habits are hard to break . To give yourself an extra incentive, set up a reward and punishment system.

When you make progress, reward yourself. But when you take a step back, enforce a punishment. This holds you accountable, allowing you to change the habit sooner rather than later.

19. If you don’t understand something that was taught in school, clarify your doubts on that same day.

Even the best students don’t understand everything at first.

If you don’t understand a particular concept that your teacher talked about in class, clarify your doubts that same day. This good habit will ensure that you keep up with the material.

20. Create a study plan for any upcoming tests or exams.

Without a study plan to enable you to concentrate , you’ll lack the structure you need to best prepare for an upcoming test or exam.

Make your plan clear and specific, and add in timelines too.

If there’s one study tip you should implement , it’s this one!

21. Be at least five minutes early for every appointment.

Arriving late for an appointment is never a good idea.

It’s a good habit for students to arrive five minutes early for every appointment, as this will ease your stress and show the other person how much you care about the appointment.

22. Review your homework list.

There’s nothing worse than finding out you have an assignment due the next day that you haven’t even started on.

Guard against this by keeping your homework list current and combining it with reminders on your phone (see Point #17 above).

23. Before you start work, make sure you have all the materials and resources you need.

Organisation is essential to reaching your goals.

Before you start any task, make sure you have everything you need, e.g., notes, stationery, textbook, calculator.

Not only will this keep you organised for school-related tasks , it will also help you avoid unnecessary distractions and interruptions.

24. When memorising information, use mnemonic devices whenever possible.

For example, if you’re trying to memorise the electromagnetic spectrum, you might use this mnemonic device:

• R icky (Radio)
• M artin (Microwaves)
• I s (Infrared)
• V ery (Visible)
• U nique (Ultraviolet) and
• e X tremely (X-rays)
• G lamorous (Gamma rays)

Such mnemonic devices help you to learn information faster, while aiding in recall too.

25. Focus on one task at a time; don’t multitask.

Research shows that multitasking negatively affects productivity. If you think you’re more productive by multitasking, you’re just tricking yourself.

So choose one task to work on and stick with it until you’re done. This study habit alone will make you a much better student!

26. Before you get down to work, remove all distractions.

There are many things you can do to avoid distractions while studying.

Before you begin your study session, remove as many distractions as possible, e.g., phone, Internet, games, unnecessary notes on your study table.

27. Break down a big task into several smaller ones.

A big task, such as a 10-page report, can be intimidating. But if you break that task down into 10 writing sessions of one page each, you’ll find it much easier to complete the report.

Adopt this approach and you’ll gradually overcome your habit of procrastination.

28. Whenever possible, do your regular homework at the same time and place every day.

Just as you should establish a sleep routine, you should also establish a homework routine to ensure that you don’t procrastinate .

Have a time and place for completing your regular homework, as this will improve your overall productivity and allow you to get your homework done faster .

29. Check through your homework after you’ve completed it.

As you reach the end of a homework assignment, you’ll probably begin to think about what you’re going to do during your break.

But don’t mark the assignment as “complete” until you’ve checked through it for mistakes.

This little bit of extra effort will pay off in the long run!

30. Take regular breaks – at least one every hour.

Research shows that taking regular breaks improves attention and productivity .

Taking one break an hour will keep you fresh, allowing you to work at your peak concentration for a longer period of time.

31. Give yourself a small reward after you complete each major task.

Reward systems don’t just work for young children.

Students benefit from such systems as well, as it gives you the incentive to work through a task in a timely manner.

32. Organise your notes and assignments.

Being organised is essential to succeeding in school , so establish good habits for staying on top of your schoolwork.

Take just 5 to 10 minutes every day to organise your notes and assignments.

When it’s time to prepare for your next test or exam, you won’t find yourself looking all over the place just to find the resources you need.

33. Clear your study table at the end of each day.

When your day comes to an end, clear your study table so that you’ll have a fresh start the following day.

You don’t want your day to start with a desk full of clutter, because this will likely make you feel unmotivated.

34. Read for at least 10 minutes a day.

With so many benefits of reading – from reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease to lowering stress levels – it’s something you should do every day.

I recommend that you include reading as part of your bedtime routine (see Point #16).

35. Whenever you face a problem, ask yourself: “What is one thing I can do right now to make the situation better?”

This is a difficult habit to get into, as many people instinctively shy away from a problem or try to think past it.

Don’t do this. Instead, find the one thing you can do right now to make the situation better.

This may not solve your problem immediately, but it will put you on the road to doing so.

36. Ask for help, if necessary.

This doesn’t mean you should always rely on others for answers, but there’s nothing wrong with reaching out for help when you’re stuck.

Furthermore, research shows that asking for advice makes a good impression on others.

37. Learn something outside the syllabus.

School has a syllabus, but life doesn’t. Learning for the sake of learning is an excellent habit for students to cultivate that will last a lifetime.

Every day, strive to learn something outside the school syllabus. I encourage you to read a book , take an online course, or learn a new skill.

There are so many resources available on the Internet, so the information is really just a click away.

38. Spend a few minutes reflecting on the day gone by.

At the end of each day, take the time to look back and reflect on what happened during the day.

Did you make progress toward your goals? What were your successes and failures? What good (and not-so-good) decisions did you make?

This simple habit of reflection will help you to get better, day by day.

39. Spend at least 15 minutes talking to your family.

You probably already know you should do this.

Family is one of the most important things in the world, so don’t take it for granted.

40. Spend 20 minutes doing something relaxing.

Maybe you enjoy listening to music to relax your mind and body. Or maybe you enjoy reading.

Whatever you prefer, give yourself 20 minutes a day to do something relaxing. This will help you to be a calm, relaxed, and positive person.

Start with just one new good habit

As you review this list of good habits for students to practise daily, remember that you’re always in a position to make a change.

It takes 21 days or more to develop a new habit , so there’s no such thing as overnight success.

But the process will be worth it.

Just make sure you don’t pick up any bad study habits along the way, which will hold your progress back.

As you develop good habits, you’ll experience positive changes. You’ll become a healthier, more productive, and more successful student. So get started today! 🙂

Like this article? Please share it with your friends.

July 11, 2016 at 6:30 pm

that was really an interesting one.THANK YOU

July 11, 2016 at 6:32 pm

You are welcome, Amala.

September 14, 2020 at 11:07 pm

Thank you Daniel

November 16, 2020 at 8:46 pm

sir this was really amazing i cant concentrate and i am a slow learner pls give me some tips

May 1, 2021 at 3:20 pm

same happen with me one year ago , but not now . You should start reading at least 30 min or more by applying finger tips while reading this will improve quality and quantity as well and also helps you to read questions faster in exams

December 8, 2019 at 11:21 pm

That is so informative . I really like it so much.

February 5, 2020 at 1:04 pm

Thank you so much hopefully this we’ll improve my grade

April 13, 2021 at 6:47 pm

Very very thank you Daniel, now i have started following the points that you gave. And I’m gonna do my best in my 10th Board Exams.

July 11, 2016 at 11:05 pm

What do you do if when you sit down to do work and sometimes a random thought comes to you and you end up wasting more time than you expected?

July 12, 2016 at 9:11 am

Thanks for your question, Aaditya. I recommend that you read these two articles for tips to address your question: https://www.daniel-wong.com/2015/08/17/study-smart/ https://www.daniel-wong.com/2016/04/18/top-student/

Hope this helps!

July 14, 2016 at 12:34 am

Ok, thanks!

July 14, 2016 at 8:09 am

You’re welcome!

August 17, 2020 at 3:46 am

If one strategy is not working, just change it . I have done the same and it worked.Thank you for giving the initiative.

July 11, 2016 at 11:06 pm

you’ve helped me so much thank you!

July 12, 2016 at 9:08 am

You’re welcome, Nat!

July 12, 2016 at 8:41 am

I have shared your blog with my friends as it is useful. Thanks

July 12, 2016 at 9:07 am

Thank you, Raja.

July 12, 2016 at 7:36 pm

How long do you recommend the breaks should last?

July 13, 2016 at 9:33 am

I recommend that breaks should be 5 to 10 minutes long in general. After about 3 study sessions, you can take a longer break for lunch, exercise, etc.

July 24, 2016 at 5:50 pm

I have problems coming up with a study plan and sticking to it. What should I do?

July 25, 2016 at 10:01 am

Hi Tricia, I recommend that you read this article: https://www.daniel-wong.com/2015/08/17/study-smart/

I also strongly recommend that you invest in this affordable system, which should address your challenge: https://www.daniel-wong.com/straight-a-student-weekly-checklist/

August 23, 2018 at 2:36 am

how to be more focused of your home.work? in the start of your holiday

September 19, 2018 at 6:31 am

This was such a helpful list!! I’m so glad you put all these important things all together! I had heard most of these things from different places here and there, but having them all together with explanations and tips to accomplish them is SUPER awesome! Thank you so much, Daniel!

October 15, 2018 at 5:57 pm

thank u so much sir

October 24, 2018 at 9:12 pm

Thankyou very much

June 28, 2019 at 2:04 pm

How can we plan our study table and should we learn every subject everyday??

October 30, 2018 at 5:34 pm

It is really fruitful to the student while they are practice

November 1, 2018 at 9:14 am

Thank you sir..

November 15, 2018 at 1:57 am

I read this and the first word I said was WOW amazing tips and I found some of them to follow it right now

December 10, 2018 at 10:08 pm

Thank you sir!! It helped me a lot to overcome my stress.And i will follow this routine to success!!😃😃

December 12, 2018 at 2:59 am

Listening to their elders and parents is another good habit for kids that should be taught by parents. This is a part of respecting their elders but this particular habit will also help them in their daily lives.

Source: https://www.thelearningapps.com/good-habits-every-parent-should-teach-their-children/

January 9, 2019 at 3:14 pm

Thank you ! This article is very informative and practical as well .

January 9, 2019 at 8:51 pm

Sir, nowadays I find my studies going so hard so I am unable to cope with it. What should I do sir in order to rise up above all and become a topper

February 24, 2019 at 3:56 pm

Very interesting and helpful. Thank you.

March 11, 2019 at 10:30 pm

I use to say everday that i will study when arriving at home or school maybe,,but once when i arrive am doing nothing,,and am just staying without doing anything concerned about my studies,,this thing is really frustrating me,,because the examination will be held soon,,so what can i do mr daniel to make to do better in my studies and examinations as well?? Help me please,,!

March 17, 2019 at 9:30 pm

Please I need This Article In My Email It is Good

March 20, 2019 at 11:45 am

Wow … That’s incredible .. Thank you . God bless you and your family.

March 22, 2019 at 5:23 am

Thank you so much for this information, but my brother i still want to improve my poor English speaking, what should i do?

September 3, 2019 at 12:02 am

Thank you so so much

October 15, 2019 at 5:58 pm

Sir, what a great lesson up here. I so love these tips and will do my utmost best to practice them… but Sir. with regards to study, I have this tendency of feeling that I already know what’s ever I want to study. Also, anytime I pick a book to study, I get some serious brain tumor, and it holds me back for a while before I force myself to do the studies.. any advice here please..

December 9, 2019 at 8:31 pm

Dear Daniel, Thanks so much for these very important articles, most of the time I use the tips drawn from your articles to support my son on improving on his study habits . Am glad to say he did so well his end of year exams and he was promoted to the next class. Be blessed.

January 2, 2020 at 10:13 pm

thank you so much . i hope i improve .

January 15, 2020 at 7:40 pm

Wonderfull.👏

February 9, 2020 at 1:38 pm

So amazing !

March 17, 2020 at 1:39 am

thank you very much sir

April 15, 2020 at 3:30 am

This is very inspirational. Thank you

May 27, 2020 at 5:32 am

July 22, 2020 at 12:24 am

Thanks Daniel! I’ll try to implement these rules as much as I can in my daily routine.

July 24, 2020 at 10:05 pm

Thanks Daniel! This was really helpful. But I had a doubt that if I am doing it right or not as I study in short bytes with 2 hours of interval

September 28, 2020 at 8:11 pm

Thank you sir this is very useful for me during exam time when I’m stressed about my exams. These tips help, thank you so much ☺☺☺

November 10, 2020 at 4:36 pm

This is an eye-opener! I now realise how I can tap into success! Thank you very much.

November 23, 2020 at 6:18 pm

Your articles are all really inspiring for us. Thanks 😊

December 25, 2020 at 1:35 pm

December 28, 2020 at 9:00 pm

One of the best articles to change myself, thanks a lot.

February 15, 2021 at 10:08 pm

May 12, 2024 at 8:25 pm

THANK YOU FOR THESE TIPS! I will apply some in my routine…

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How to Establish Good Homework Habits for Kids

Homework is the bridge between the home and the classroom. It reinforces what’s learned at school and can help raise red flags in subjects where children need extra help. It is crucial to establish good homework habits for kids early when the homework assignments are short and simple.

On the other hand, bad homework habits can lead to a negative attitude toward learning and difficulties staying focused on longer tasks. Here are our top tips for how to develop good homework habits for kids, as well as a few quick fixes to remedy bad homework habits.

• Five Good Homework Habits for Kids

Start by building a foundation of good homework and study habits that dictate where, when, and how homework should be done. Here are six of the best homework habits you can help your child establish.

1. Set a Homework Schedule

One of the easiest ways to help your child develop their best homework habits is to set aside homework time each day. Having daily homework time will prevent procrastination and ensure that your child is on track to finish his work on time.

Some children may prefer to do homework as soon as they get home. Others may need some time to play and burn off energy before settling in with their assignments. If your schedule changes daily with after-school sports and activities, consider instituting homework rules instead. For example, your child might have to do his homework before having any screen time.

Setting a schedule will help homework become a regular part of the day, rather than a daily disagreement between you and your child.

2. Provide a Regular Homework Space

Another important part of establishing a regular homework schedule is providing your child with a space to do her homework . Older students may enjoy having a desk with storage for supplies and a large space to work.

Younger children who need more help with their homework may prefer working at the kitchen table or in another communal space in the house. This can be especially helpful when your child is working on subjects or tasks that he struggles with.

Wherever your child is most comfortable, make sure he has the room and supplies he needs to develop good homework and study habits.

3. Assist Your Child (But Not Too Much!)

One of the trickiest parts of establishing good homework habits for kids is deciding how much help they need. Some parents may be tempted to rush over the moment they see their child is getting frustrated. However, it is important for students young and old to challenge themselves and work through frustration.

At the first complaint or sign of frustration, encourage your child to keep trying. Here are a few easy ways to keep him moving on a tricky question or assignment:

• Ask if he has completed all the sections he understands before tackling the ones he doesn’t.
• Provide encouragement and praise when she makes a step in the right direction.
• Ask what she remembers from class that might help her.
• Determine if there are additional resources he may need, words he needs to have defined, or directions he needs to have clarified.

There will certainly be times when your child will need help, but homework is designed to reinforce skills and subjects taught in class. Doing your child’s homework or helping her too much will only hurt her learning in the long run.

4. Stay Positive and Confident

Keeping your cool will help homework become a positive opportunity for students to practice the skills they learn in the classroom. It’s also your chance to see what your child is learning and make sure he has the tools he needs to succeed.

Praise your child not only when she gets the answer right away, but when she struggles and perseveres. Remaining confident in her abilities throughout the process is key to her own self-belief.

5. Give Your Child A Say

With all of the tips above kept in mind — be flexible. School days are long, and some children may need a break before digging into homework after school. Talk with your child about when, where, and how he does his homework best.

Just like adults, some children may work better with music or white noise. Others may prefer silence. Some may like to be left alone and ask questions at the end, while others may like to go back and forth with a parent as they need. Children may prefer to do one subject at a time or bounce between them to stay interested.

Giving your child a voice will help her develop her personal best homework habits. In turn, she will have the skills she needs to grow her homework and study habits for the rest of her educational years.

• Five Bad Homework Habits to Break

If good habits aren’t established early, bad homework habits can take root. Here are five of the most common bad habits and ways to fix them.

1. Procrastination

With after-school sports and extracurriculars, it can be easy to push homework until late at night or even until the morning of the day it’s due. Procrastination is one of the most common bad homework habits.

The solution? Set up rewards or privileges earned only after homework is done. Choose something that will motivate your child, like playing video games or watching his favorite TV show. Establishing this habit young will prevent arguments about when homework is done when he is older.

2. Getting Distracted by Screens

Text messages and social media can be huge distractions for children and young teens when completing homework. Multitasking means that homework is likely to take longer and not be done as well as if the child focused on one thing at a time.

The solution? Designate a place in another room where your child puts his phone during homework time. You may also want to monitor computer usage to ensure it is only being used for homework during homework time.

3. Having No Plan

Writing down assignments in an organized way is key to getting homework done. Students who rely on their memory are likely to forget assignments and struggle to complete long-term assignments.

The solution? Provide students with a planner to write down their assignments for the day. You can also utilize a calendar at home to plan out long-term assignments over the month to make sure they’re done on time.

4. Getting Overwhelmed

For struggling students or older students with a heavy workload, it can be easy to get overwhelmed with homework. When it comes to an especially hard assignment, your child may not be able to focus on it for very long without becoming discouraged.

The solution? Set a timer for 15-20 minutes. If your child stays focused and sticks with her homework, give her a break to cool off and relax. It will take longer to get the homework done, but she will learn more and get less frustrated in the process.

5. Incomplete Work

Your child may appear to be doing his homework, but he could be missing subjects or assignments each week. He writes them down in his calendar, but they aren’t completed.

The solution? Talk with your child. Does he need a tutor? Is he struggling to see the board? Maybe he is simply putting the work off because he doesn’t like or understand the subject. Fixing this problem relies on figuring out the cause through open conversations with your child and his teacher.

The daily practice in this updated, standards-based series helps students build and maintain skills covered over the school year. Ideal for summer school students.

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10 Good Habits for Students to Succeed in School

Inside: These good habits for students will help them to be more successful and make the most of their education.

For many of us, education is critically important. Our time spent in school shapes us, forms the basis of our knowledge, and ultimately provides us opportunities to succeed in life. 

That’s why it’s so important to get the most out of your education.

Whether you’re mastering basic concepts in your early years or you’re pursuing higher education around a subject you’re passionate about, you want to make sure you’re maximizing the value of your time and energy – not wasting your efforts.

While there’s no single answer to ensure you’re getting the most out of your education, there are some things you can do to make it happen. Those things are habits .

By building strong positive habits that shape the way you learn, study, and manage your time, you’ll set yourself up for success – in the classroom and beyond. 

Not sure what kinds of habits you should incorporate into your life to make the most of your education? This list of ten good habits for students is a great place to start.

You can create new habits even if you’ve struggled to in the past. Focus on one area you’d like to improve at a time to keep yourself from getting overwhelmed.

By embracing some – or all – of these into your routine, you might be surprised to see just how much easier school can be – and how much more value you can get out of it. 

1 – Get enough sleep.

One of the best habits you can build to succeed in school doesn’t happen in the classroom.

In fact, please avoid sleeping in the classroom at all costs.

Instead, it’s all about getting the right amount – and quality – of rest at night. Memories are solidified as you sleep, so a good night’s rest can make a big difference in your ability to recall all of the information you studied during the day.

By prioritizing rest and making good sleep a habit, you’ll set yourself up for success in the classroom – and beyond. 

2 – Stay organized. 

Staying organized in school can be hard . Between assignments, due dates, big tests and quizzes, projects, and everything else, there’s a lot to keep track of – and for some, staying on top of it all can feel like an impossible challenge.

Finding an organizational system that works for you is key to success here. For some, a paper planner with daily and weekly views can be a great tool to stay on track.

For others, a simple notebook and a to-do list are sufficient. And then there are all kinds of digital options, including apps, calendars , and automated reminders.

With a little research and some trial-and-error, you can find an organizational method you can keep up with and, over time, make it a good habit. 

3 – Focus on one task at a time. 

Good habits for students don’t involve watching television while doing homework, or trying to study while playing a game.

While many people think they can multitask, the reality is that most people struggle to do more than one thing at a time.

This is especially true when you’re trying to do something that requires focus, comprehension, critical thinking, and memorization. Instead of splitting your attention, learn to cut the distractions and give all of your focus on your studies. 

4 – Study often. 

You may not realize it, but studying is a skill. It isn’t something you’re born with the ability to do. Instead, you have to learn how to study – and practice often. 

Carve out a certain period of time each day to study and explore different strategies to review and retain information.

By making studying a habit, you’ll have a much easier time learning new stuff – whether you’re cramming for a test, memorizing lyrics to an unfamiliar song, or trying to master a new language. 

5 – Take good notes.

Like studying, taking notes is one of those things that people think is easy – but in reality, it can be a bit of a challenge.

You need to be able to digest the information you’re taking in, pick out the really important stuff, and capture it in a way that will make sense later on.

And if you’re in a classroom setting, you have to do it fast , since the teacher probably won’t slow down or wait for you to catch up. 

While you can research note-taking strategies and embrace different methodologies, at the end of the day, it’s all about finding something that works for you – and sticking to it. 

6 – Be an active participant. 

It’s really easy to just show up and sit through class without actually engaging in the process. You can sit in the back, keep to yourself, and refuse to raise your hand – and chances are, you’ll escape without being disrupted.

But taking a literal back seat to your education isn’t really a great habit to build. Instead, make a habit of being an active participant in your education. Raise your hand and try to answer the questions.

Listen to what’s being covered and ask meaningful questions that show you understand the material – or that you’re trying to, at least. Not only will you get more out of the experience, but you might be surprised to see just how much more fun the process can be. 

7 – Be honest. 

This one may go without saying for most, but some students make cheating a habit.

Whether they’re copying answers to homework from a friend, skipping the required reading and glancing over a summary instead, plagiarizing essays, or finding another way to take a shortcut, the only person they’re really harming is themselves.

Be honest and don’t cheat. It’s as simple as that.

8 – Learn to prioritize.

Prioritization is a good habit that many students can benefit from. It’s easy to get overwhelmed when you’re in school by the sheer amount of stuff you need to do.

Between studying for tests and quizzes, staying on top of homework, squeezing in required reading, and attending class, you can walk away each day with a lot on your plate and not a lot of time to do it.

It’s a great opportunity to focus on what’s important and figure out where to focus your attention.

When forced to choose between prepping for a big exam that can impact your final grade and a homework assignment that won’t have such a massive impact, it’s important to learn how to make the right decision. 

This is a good habit for students to develop as it’s an important life skill that they will use for the rest of their lives.

9 – Be prepared. 

Another good habit for students is to always come prepared. Don’t be the student who shows up to class without a pencil, or the one who forgot their textbook at home.

Not only can this be disruptive, it can make it more difficult for you to stay focused and learn the material that’s being taught.

Minimize your risk and make it a habit to take a quick inventory of your backpack the night before to make your mornings less crazy and to ensure you have what you need. 

10 – Get help when you need it.

Many of us don’t like asking for help – especially when it comes to school. But it’s a good idea to make asking for help a habit.

Don’t understand a concept? Don’t hesitate to ask your teacher to help you break it down.

Stuck on a problem? Ask a friend if they can help you walk through it.

Get a tutor to help you navigate subjects that you aren’t particularly strong in. Asking for help is way better than the alternatives – getting frustrated or giving up.

Bonus Habit: Choose Kindness.

While all of these good habits for students are beneficial and will help you to be more successful in school, don’t overlook important character qualities to have as well.

Choose kindness as you interact with your teacher and other students. Look for ways you can help improve someone else’s day.

Your overall success in school isn’t just your grades. It’s also the person you become in the process and how you treat others.

The habits that you learn while you’re young can be carried with you through adulthood. Be the type of person you’d want to have as a friend.

Which good habits for students resonated most with you? Share it in the comments section!

Sign up on the form below to get weekly tips on living simply and intentionally sent straight to your inbox. You’ll also get the free Habit Tracker Worksheet to help you build new positive habits in your life.

Good morning, I just sent a link to this website to all of my students and their parents. Your explanations are clear and straightforward; they should be a big help. Thank you.

Anthony M. Fischer (Regular Ed. Teacher, social studies)

Reading your comments make me realized I did most of these throughout my educational years at school and was successful. I’m going to send this to my kids to help them with my grandkids. Great blueprint for all aspects in life.

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Greater Good Science Center • Magazine • In Action • In Education

Are Your Habits and Beliefs Self-Destructive?

In the modern world, we’ve become out of touch with the “creative and innovative genius that we are wired for,” according to Emma Seppälä , psychologist and author of Sovereign: Reclaim Your Freedom, Energy, and Power in a Time of Distraction, Uncertainty, and Chaos .

Her solution? To regain sovereignty. That means “becoming aware of the level of conditioning that divorces us from our own inner voice, intuition, and creativity,” she says. To tune back into what she calls “our own innate intelligence.”

In this latest book, Seppälä, author of The Happiness Track , presents “an invitation to look at how we are living and how we’re relating to ourselves,” drawing attention to the ways we are psychologically imprisoned by our own beliefs and habits—everything from our technological devices to our work-around-the-clock mindset. She offers stories as well as science-backed techniques to help us overcome these shackles to live more authentic, self-driven lives.

“We need to gain more awareness of how we are, unknowingly, standing in our own way,” says Seppälä. “Not allowing us to show up to our fullest potential. Right now, we need that. And we need to model that for our children.”

I talked with Seppälä, a researcher who teaches at the Yale School of Management, about the different ways we remain mentally “bound,” how sovereignty is distinct from happiness, and why it’s essential to pay attention to our intuition, among other subjects. Here is our conversation, edited for clarity.

Hope Reese: There’s been a lot of talk about mindfulness when it comes to mental health, but the concept of sovereignty feels new. Why did you choose this term? How does it fit into our overall well-being?

Emma Seppälä: I’ve been studying the science of happiness and well-being, meditation interventions, and doing research on many different things, like student well-being. But I felt like there was no term that encapsulated what I’m talking about, which is beyond well-being. You can do all the well-being practices in the world, but if you’re still falling for behavior patterns and thought patterns that are destructive to you, then you’re still not free. You might feel better after your yoga classes, but you’re still bound by those kinds of patterns, behaviors that are keeping you trapped.

Sometimes when everybody’s doing it, we forget to question it. That’s why I didn’t want to use another concept that was already being used—because this is not the same thing.

HR: What does being “bound” look like?

ES: A really simple one that anyone can identify with is how bound we are to technology in ways that, for many of us, feel unhealthy. And yet we’re stuck in it. How many teenagers have deleted social media from their phone, only to put it back on, knowing that it’s destructive? And how many people, when they’re not feeling well, fall for some kind of addictive behavior? You don’t have to be alcoholic for this—you could look saintly, like “I’m working 80 hours a week,” or “I’m volunteering 40 hours a week,” or “I’m just exercising.”

There’s so many coping mechanisms—stress eating or drinking or smoking weed or whatever it is—that people use that bind us. On the other side of these coping mechanisms, we’re still stuck.

HR: How does this idea follow up on your work on the science of happiness, your message in the book The Happiness Track ?

ES: The Happiness Track was also inviting people to question the way that they were working, because the way that a lot of people work is this burning-of-both-ends-into-the-ground phenomenon, which does not actually work over the long term. It leads to burnout, which is why 50% of people burn out. There’s a lot of disengagement in the workplace.

Here, I’m going beyond that questioning. Even if you can do all the well-being practices, I’m meditating twice a day and doing all the things , I could see for myself that I was still going for ways of thinking and acting that weren’t serving me. It doesn’t really matter what you’re doing if you’re not awake.

HR: You direct the Women’s Leadership Program at the Yale School of Business. How do you see this issue of sovereignty affecting women, specifically?

ES: Sovereignty can apply to both men and women. But teaching so many cohorts of highly talented female executives in high-level jobs, I noticed how the biggest thing in their way was not the gender biases that are definitely present, but their relationship with their own selves. I remember this one woman coming up to me and saying, “Well, I get an A in leadership and a D in parenting.” It just broke my heart to see how hard she was on herself and how hard, how abusive, people’s relationships can be with themselves. We don’t even realize it, and we actually think it’s normal.

I’m teaching a cohort of 45 women this week. Inevitably, if I asked them,“Who’s hard on themselves here?,” 98% of the room raises their hand. There’s one or two women who aren’t—and they are always so powerful, because they’re there for themselves.

HR: You talk about individual work, placing emphasis on self-growth. What about structural barriers? What else is holding people back from becoming sovereign?

ES: Structural and societal challenges are there, and there’s plenty of work to be done there. But one way that I define sovereignty is that chaos is going to come your way, challenges are going to come your way. The pandemic was a perfect example of complete chaos and loss of control. But the one thing you do have a say over is the state of your own mind, your internal sovereignty. That is going to allow you to show up as your best in whatever challenge—and there will be challenges, and there are structural problems. How are we facing them? How are we showing up?

If we show up upset and angry, maybe it’ll work; maybe it won’t. But if we show up sovereign internally, then we’re going to at least be able to think on our feet and do the best we can, despite the situation.

HR: How does our intuition relate to being sovereign?

ES: It’s common to meet the idea of intuition with an eyeroll. We tend to value reason over everything else, using expressions like “think before you act,” “think twice,” and “look before you leap.” We don’t trust intuition. In fact, we believe it’s flawed and magical thinking, either vaguely crazy or downright stupid. 

We are rational and reasoned, and that can make us very sensible, but sometimes also narrow-minded and unaware because we rely on intellect at the cost of other modes of perception. We live in a highly cerebral world, in our heads, on our screens—so a lot of people are not in touch with their feelings at all.

But we should not allow the pursuit of reason, logic, and proof to shame us into dimming other sources of insight. Intelligence is understanding that we have processing mechanisms other than our intellect.

For example, it’s important to notice—“Oh, my heart rate is increasing, what’s going on?” The brain is processing information in the background in a way our logic may not understand, but it’s putting together information at rapid speed, alerting us to danger.

We depend, trust, and rely exclusively on information coming from outside of us, shutting down a valuable additional resource: our inner knowings. This binds us through a limited perspective that doesn’t take advantage of other forms of cognition to which we could have access.

Yet research shows that we are wired for intuition in different ways:

• Physiological: Research shows our heart rate increases when we are around someone who is inauthentic and suppressing their emotion.
• Observational: Keen awareness of your surroundings is the way the military trains Marines for intuition in their Combat Hunter Training program.
• Creative: We know the brain is most likely to come up with a-ha solutions to problems and creative insights when it is in alpha-wave mode, i.e., when you are in a receptive and relaxed state.
• Problem solving: Neuroscience research by Joseph Mikels demonstrates that when decisions are complex, we make a better decision when we go with our gut feeling as opposed to our reason.

HR: As you mention, you’re working with a group of people who are in or on track for high-level positions. What about people who don’t have this privilege? Does the message apply to everyone?

ES: The message is for everyone, unless you’re in a situation where you’re starving. As long as you have food and shelter and feel safe.

I talk a lot about meditation. Meditation is really a radical art, a radical act of disconnecting—from the noise, from the activity, and from the constant “go, go, go,” and from a constant input. A sort of clearing out.

That can be anxiety-provoking, in itself. We’re so used to being in fight-or-flight—all of this caffeine we’re consuming, it’s not normal. We can keep ourselves out of a state of awareness, a state of calm. Breathing exercises can be really powerful. You can get yourself out of the fight-or-flight that keeps us in a bound state. It’s a first step, literally conditioning your nervous system to come to a state of calm. Another way is to spend time in nature. These are well-being practices—but it’s also about being more aware.

None of us have learned to handle our emotions, we just haven’t. So many of us fall into coping mechanisms. Constantly falling for ideas that keep us bound. That’s why I use a new word—a new way of looking at things.

About the Author

Hope Reese is a journalist based in Budapest, Hungary, who writes for the New York Times , the Atlantic , Vox , and many other publications. Her book The Women Are Not Fine will be published in 2025.

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Our wellness advice is expert-vetted . Our top picks are based on our editors’ independent research, analysis, and hands-on testing. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Reviews ethics statement

Take Control of Your Health by Adding These 12 Things to Your Routine

If you've been working toward improving your health, you need to check out the top 12 daily habits you should be doing.

Today is the perfect day to start taking your wellness seriously. Whether you have set goals or are just working toward healthier habits, finding your starting point is challenging. The good news is that you don't have to start big. Small changes can make a surprisingly big difference in how you feel each day. 

We have a dozen healthy habits that can help you enjoy better physical and mental health, all backed by science.

It doesn't have to stop here. See which foods you should eat for a happiness boost , hacks to handle stress and six tips to reboot your sleep habits . 

12 daily habits to improve your health

Here, we're talking about small adjustments that benefit every human. With these minor modifications to your daily routine, you can start working toward better health without having to give up a ton of time, money or enjoyment.

1. Prioritize sleep 

Going without sleep is a lot like expecting your phone to run all day on a 12% battery. Your body needs time to not just rest and recharge, but also to do important work like learning new things and solidifying memories. 

Adults should get at least seven hours of shut-eye each night. If this is a challenge for you, turn to your circadian rhythm . This is your body's natural process that should help you fall asleep, stay asleep and wake up feeling refreshed.

How do you use your circadian rhythm for better sleep ? Go to bed and get up at the same time every day.

2. Walk more 

Heading out for a stroll boosts your physical and mental health, so it's well worth adding to your list of healthy daily habits. 

On the physical front, regular walking supports your immune system, reduces joint pain and makes it easier to maintain a healthy weight. 

Any exercise helps your mental health, and that includes walking . If you want to shift your daily habits to combat symptoms of depression or anxiety or to boost your mental wellness in general, make it a point to lace up your walking shoes each day. 

3. Read for 30 minutes 

Feeling stressed? Crack open a book. One study found that a half hour of reading can have the same stress-busting effect as known sources of calm, like yoga and humor. 

Reading also does a lot for your brain, strengthening connections there. That study showed that diving into a book has both short and long-term benefits for your brain health. So to maintain the boost, make reading one of your daily habits. When you do, you'll also be actively working to fight cognitive decline as you age.

4. Meditate 

Another stress reducer and mental health booster , meditation gives you a way to tune into the present moment. In our busy, hyperconnected world, this can go a long way toward not just keeping yourself healthy, but also protecting your happiness.

Starting meditation could be as simple as doing a little reading on it and setting a timer for, say, 5 minutes each day. There are also plenty of good apps to guide you. You can even incorporate a meditative mindset into your regular activities, such as mindful eating .

Meditation gives you a way to tune into the present moment, so you can reduce stress and improve your mental health. 

5. Spend time in nature

Getting into nature can help us soothe ourselves. It offers an effective counterbalance to all the screentime built into most of our days. An expanding body of research shows that time in nature can:

• Improve our cognition
• Increase attention span
• Lower risk of mental illness
• Increase empathy and social connectedness

You can combine this with other healthy habits, like your daily walk. Ideally, aim for green (like a forest) or blue (like bodies of water) spaces during your time outdoors. 

6. Eat more plant-based foods 

You probably already know that eating nutritious food makes you feel better. As an overarching concept, healthy eating habits can feel a little vague.

So let's be specific: Work to get more plants onto your plate. A plant-supported diet helps you maintain healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels and reduces your risk for some chronic conditions. Plants are full of the vitamins, minerals and other nutrients we need to keep our bodies working optimally.

Try to incorporate more fruit, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and legumes into your daily meals. It might be helpful to keep a produce bowl on your kitchen counter so you can grab things as a quick snack, too.

A plant-based diet helps maintain healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels and reduces your risk for some chronic conditions. 

7. Drink more water 

This is one of those areas where it's easy to see how healthy habits help. Since we're mostly water , it makes sense that we would need to continually replenish our body's supply. Getting enough water helps your body flush waste and keeps your joints lubricated while acting as a shock absorber for your spine and helping your digestive processes. 

To build healthy habits around water, start carrying a reusable water bottle with you. Whenever you're bored, take a sip. Your body will thank you. 

8. Reduce alcohol intake

Reducing the alcohol you consume does a lot for you , especially if you used to binge drink.:

• Lowers risk of high blood pressure, depression and other conditions
• Decreases symptoms of those conditions
• Helps your body better absorb nutrients
• Improves sleep and minimizes fatigue
• Supports liver health

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that men have two drinks or fewer each day, while women stick to a max of one drink per day. To help yourself out here, figure out a nonalcoholic beverage you like a lot. Soda water, bitters and a lime can scratch the cocktail itch without adding another alcoholic drink to your daily total. 

9. Quit smoking 

Does this come as any surprise? Smoking is bad for your heart and lungs, and it's also bad for your longevity . Long story short, if you want to live a longer, healthier life, kick the habit. 

As you're figuring out how to be healthier, don't turn to vaping. It might be less harmful, but it's just as addictive and still comes with health risks . 

Smoking is one of the hardest daily habits to ditch. The CDC and the American Lung Association have resources to help.

10. Spend time with those you love 

If you're pursuing healthy habits to feel happier in 2024, hang with your people. Social connection goes a long way toward boosting our moods.

If you already have a group of friends or family, let this be a reminder to hit them up. Call someone you haven't talked to in a while or invite a few people over for a game or movie night. Check how you feel afterward. Better? We thought so.

If you don't have a social circle, make 2024 the year you intentionally work on making connections. That could mean striking up a conversation with a coworker or getting to know your neighbors . 

Social connection goes a long way toward boosting our overall mood.

11. Take a break from electronics 

Screen time takes its toll. Studies directly link it with lower psychological well-being . 

Fortunately, the reverse is true. A digital detox can:

• Improve your sleep
• Boost your focus and productivity
• Reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety
• Support real-life social connections (see the point above)

You could try going off social media apps for a while and see how you feel. If you want to incorporate this into your healthy daily habits, carve out time each day when you're screen-free. For better sleep, maybe make that the last hour before bed.

12. Take on a new hobby 

Your healthy habits can also be fun and rewarding. What have you always wanted to do? Your answer to that question might point you toward a new hobby to explore in 2024. Getting into it can help you reduce stress and boost mental well-being.

Plus, some hobbies can get you moving, supporting both your physical and mental health. Maybe you get into playing pick-up soccer at the park, or you could explore yoga . 

Ultimately, you have a lot of options for healthy daily habits you could incorporate into your lifestyle. You can pick one or two, or go big and go for the full dozen. Either way, you'll be moving toward a healthier, happier you. 

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Maytag Brand’s Feel Good Fridge Positively Impacts Chicago’s Youth

Imagine a child sitting down to solve a math problem or lace up their sneakers for a basketball game, but instead of focusing on the task at hand, they’re worried about when they’ll eat next. Food insecurity affects 1 in 8 children across America, 1 a reality that hits harder during the summer months when free and reduced-priced school lunch is on pause.

At Boys & Girls Clubs of America, we believe that no child should face their day on an empty stomach, and our friends at Maytag brand agree. Through the Feel Good Fridge program , they’re providing select Boys & Girls Clubs with a refrigerator stocked with healthy food for Club kids and their families to take as needed. Each fridge provides healthy food to an average of 130 Club kids per day.

This summer, Union League Boys & Girls Club – Barreto Club in Chicago is receiving its brand new Feel Good Fridge from Maytag brand. We spoke with Jeremy Murphy, Senior Club Director, and Hector Perez, Senior Vice President, at the Barreto Club. They shared with us the impact of the Maytag brand partnership on their Club programs and how the fridge will support Club kids and their families.

The Importance of Access to Food

“In Humboldt Park, where our Club is located, we’re in the heart of a food desert. 2 This means the nearest large grocery store is more than a mile away, and the small corner stores nearby don’t offer the fresh produce our families need,” Jeremy explained. “This lack of access to nutritious food makes our mission even more critical. It’s not just about filling bellies, it’s about offering healthy options that are otherwise out of reach.”

“Many of our Club kids, especially during the summer, might not have had breakfast,” Hector said. “For some, the meal we provide is the only one they look forward to all day.”

“Teens often don’t get home until late. If they’re hungry, they can’t focus on their homework, making our meals here at the Club crucial ,” Hector added.

“In fact, one of our Club kids would save his meal instead of eating it because there was no food at home.” This is just one example of what some of our youth today face and highlights why Club meal services are so important — not just for feeding the kids but for supporting the whole family.

A Foundation for Focus Starts With Meeting Kids’ Basic Needs

Jeremy touched on the importance of meeting physiological needs, emphasizing how vital it is for our kids to have their basic needs met before we can expect them to focus and excel in anything else.

He also explained how hunger affects youth: “It’s clear when a child is struggling with hunger because they might seem tired, distant, or disengaged. But when they receive a nutritious meal, the transformation is almost immediate — it’s remarkable. Everybody’s always happy when they have a good meal. They’re more energetic and ready to engage with the world around them.”

How Nutrition Impacts Youth Development

Nutrition isn’t just about keeping hunger at bay; it’s about fueling growing bodies and minds. “Knowing they can come to the Club and get a dependable meal removes a big obstacle,” Hector added. “It lets our kids focus on what’s really important: their growth and personal development. In the evenings, we make sure to offer healthy meals that keep our kids happy and active until it’s time to go home.”

Here are some other ways nutrition impacts youth:

• Physical Growth: Low amounts of protein can prevent bones from growing longer; a lack of essential minerals means bones cannot form properly. 4
• Mental Development: Poor nutrition can hinder brain development, resulting in behavioral and emotional challenges. 5, 6, 7
• Chronic Health Risks: Unhealthy eating habits can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes. 8 In fact, studies show that adults who don’t always have enough food are 50% more likely to get diabetes, highlighting the importance of consistent healthy eating. 9

Cultivating Healthy Habits with Hands-on Gardening and Cooking Programs

Hands-on learning at Boys & Girls Clubs teaches kids practical life skills like responsibility and good habits through interactive gardening and cooking programs. Jeremy explained, “We use the healthy habits curriculum at our Club, so storing some of the fruits and vegetables that we grow in our garden in that fridge will help us reinforce what we’re already teaching.”

The cooking program teaches kids to prepare healthy meals, skills they can then use at home. “Kids not only learn how to cook and prepare healthy options, but they also bring these meals home to cook with their parents,” Jeremy added, highlighting the program’s role in building community and reinforcing healthy habits.

Strengthening the Community through Nutrition

Clubs positively affect not just members but also families and the wider community, highlighting the vital role food security plays in individual and community well-being.

When the Feel Good Fridge program kicks off at the Club, families will be encouraged to come in and get the food they need from the fridge without judgment. “Having this fridge means we can significantly expand our meal programs to help more people,” said Jeremy. “It’s going to change the way we serve our community by allowing us to offer more fresh food options every day.”

Maytag brand’s initiative brings more than just meals to tables; it brings hope and stability, enabling youth and their families to thrive without the worry of hunger holding them back. Now, that’s something to feel good about.

Keep More Kids Fed, Fueled and Focused

Nearly two-thirds of Boys & Girls Club kids depend on school for breakfast and lunch and their Club for nutritious snacks and meals — especially during summer. Learn more about our partnership with Maytag brand and how they help ensure Club kids have access to healthy food they can depend on.

Sources 1 Feeding America: https://www.feedingamerica.org/hunger-in-america 2 Making It Rain in a Chicago Food Desert: https://www.humboldtparkportal.org/making-it-rain-in-a-chicago-food-desert/ 3 Mental Health, Suicidality, and Connectedness Among High School Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic — Adolescent Behaviors and Experiences Survey, United States, January – June 2021: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/71/su/pdfs/su7103a3-H.pdf 4 The Basics of Bone in Health and Disease: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK45504/ 5 Poor diets may lower children’s IQ: https://www.theguardian.com/science/2011/feb/07/diet-children-iq 6 Nutritional Psychiatry: Your Brain on Food: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/nutritional-psychiatry-your-brain-on-food-201511168626 7 The Link Between Food and Mental Health: https://www.apa.org/monitor/2017/09/food-mental-health 8 Poor Nutrition: https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/publications/factsheets/nutrition.htm 9 The Intersection of Food Insecurity and Diabetes: A Review: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4218969

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