Should Parents Help with Homework? 

Homework—like yellow buses and lunchboxes—is a big part of the school experience. The National PTA and the National Education Association support a nightly 10 minutes of homework per grade level. As a parent, you might wonder if helping your child with their homework is a good idea. You want to save them time and make sure they’re on the right track but does stepping in too much actually help, or could it hold them back? Let’s explore how you can find the right balance. 

Benefits of Parents Helping With Homework 

There are many reasons why helping your child with homework can be a positive experience for both of you. Let’s explore the top benefits: 

1. Increased Parental Involvement

Helping with homework allows you to stay connected to what your child is learning in school. It gives you a chance to engage with their progress and see firsthand how they’re doing. 

2. Improved Efficiency During Homework-Time

By helping your child stay focused and organized, you can help them complete assignments more efficiently, reducing the stress that sometimes comes with homework. 

3. Establishing Good Study Habits

Your involvement can help your child develop good study routines. Setting a regular time and place for homework encourages consistency and discipline. 

4. Building a Stronger Parent-Child Bond

Homework time can be an opportunity for bonding. It’s a time to show your child that you support their efforts and are there to guide them when they need help. 

When Parents Should Put the Pen Down 

While helping with homework is important, there are times when it’s better to step back. Here are some reasons to pause your involvement: 

1. Potential Harm to Independent Skills Development

Kids need to develop the skills to tackle assignments on their own. If you do too much, they might struggle to build the confidence and problem-solving abilities they need. 

2. Parents Have Forgotten Skills

As much as you want to help, some of the material might not be as fresh in your mind. Giving outdated or incorrect help can confuse your child. 

3. Children Benefit from Mistakes

It’s okay if your child doesn’t get everything right the first time. Let them make mistakes so they can learn and grow from them. For instance, if they get a question wrong, encourage them to understand why they made the mistake and how they can avoid it in the future. This process of self-correction is a crucial part of learning. 

The Best Ways to Help with Homework 

Not all homework help is created equal! Here are a few ways you can offer support without doing too much: 

1. Offer Guidance, Not Answers

Instead of giving your child the answer, ask questions that guide them toward solving the problem on their own. For instance, if they’re struggling with a math problem, you could ask, “What do you think the first step should be?” This approach encourages them to think critically and develop problem-solving skills. 

2. Provide a Distraction-Free Environment

Set up a quiet, well-lit space for your child to work. Make sure it’s free from distractions like TV, toys, or loud noises so they can focus. 

3. Encourage a Positive Attitude

Homework can feel like a chore, but if you stay upbeat and encouraging, your child is more likely to stay motivated and approach their work with confidence. 

4. Break Down Big Tasks

If an assignment seems overwhelming, help your child break it into smaller, manageable steps. This makes big tasks feel less intimidating and teaches them time management. 

These strategies allow you to be a helpful partner in your child’s learning journey while still giving them room to grow independently. 

Resources for When Parents Struggle to Help With Homework 

When homework gets tricky, and you’re not sure how to assist, don’t worry—there are plenty of resources to support you: 

Communicate with Teachers: Don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher for clarification or additional resources. 

Online Tutors: Online tutoring services can be a great way for your child to keep up with schoolwork and learn at their own pace, all from the comfort of home  

Homework Help Apps: Tools like Photomath and Quizlet offer guidance on tough subjects. 

School-Based Support: Many schools offer after-school homework clubs or extra teacher-led virtual sessions. 

If you ever feel unsure, remember that you’re not alone. At K12-powered schools, we offer support for students and parents, whether it’s homework tips or connecting you to helpful resources. We’re here to help your child thrive academically and personally.