Homework Tip: Staying on Task

Homework Problem: Staying On Task

Many students are able to start their homework by themselves, but then have trouble staying on task. It may be because they are tired, hungry or simply just brain dead from their school day.

We understand that they need to do their homework, though, and having some ways to keep them focused can help the work get finished easier and quicker.

Homework Solution: Use a Task Jar

This is a great activity to do with your child so they understand how it will help them stay on task. Grab a medium-sized jar, box, bin, etc., and fill it with the 6 items listed below. (You can even decorate it, if you’d like.) In this task jar are 6 small items that will help your child stay on task during homework.

Item 1: Medium size baggie
This is used to collect those “things” that help pull kids off task…cell phone, iPod, etc.

Item 2: Task List
This is simply a reminder to have the student review all the work he needs to get accomplished and to list them in one place, if helpful, before he begins. By seeing what work needs to get done, a student can sometimes feel better about starting. And encourage crossing off completed items so they are able to start feeling their accomplishments.

Item 3: Timer
Many students feel overwhelmed by the amount of time they think their homework will take them to complete. By setting the timer for just 5 minutes at a time they will begin to see how little time much of their work actually takes. When staying focused for 5 minutes becomes easy, add another 5, up to 30 minutes.

Item 4: Small bean bag
Once your student is able to stay on task for 15 minutes, set the timer for 60 seconds and take turns tossing the bean bag back and forth to help rejuvenate the brain and the body to be able to tackle the next 15 minutes. (With older students, just tell them to “go long!”)

Item 5: Small water bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial to help the brain and body stay focused and on task. Taking small drinks of water at least every 30 minutes can make the difference between homework taking an hour, or hours to complete.

Item 6: Task Tokens
These can be small tokens that are used to visually represent the student finishing their work for the day.  A poker chip, a quarter, a wooden nickel, etc., are all fun things for the kids to collect for a bigger treat at the end of each week.  Be sure to work with your child to develop a list of items the tokens can be used towards.  (For older students, it might cost you a little bit more!)

While students need reminders of staying on task, there is no reason those reminders shouldn’t be fun and helpful. This task jar will become a positive way to remind them to stay on task while also reinforcing those times when they are able to focus for longer periods of time.

And it’s so rewarding for students to know that they stayed on task, all by themselves.