Manage Homework Stress
It’s that time of year again!
The school year is about to begin here in Marietta, Georgia. Students and parents are getting their supplies together and getting ready to start a brand new year. Many of you are hoping that this year is going to be better than the last. Here are some easy tips that you can begin using to help you (or your child) manage homework stress. Making these tips part of your regular routine can help you can make this school year the best one ever!
According to the American Journal of Family Therapy, homework is a major factor in the level of stress in families. Despite the recommendations listed by the National Education Association to assign 10 minutes of homework per grade year, this study found that some students are being given many more times that amount of homework. Greater amounts of homework lead to greater amounts of stress for the student and in the family. Following are some suggestions for managing your work load to help manage that stress:
Time Management and Organization
Establish an after school homework and study schedule. Organize your work and a create a study space that eliminates distractions.
Prioritize
Study and complete assignments in the order they are due. This is a key habit to manage homework stress and prevents those last-minute cram sessions.
Take a Break
Allow 30-40 minutes of downtime after school before starting any school work. Eat a healthy protein snack; burn off some energy with physical activity.
Know Your Focus Time
Know how long you are able to focus without a break. Complete work and study in these time increments. Take 10-15 minute breaks in between to allow time to recharge and regain your focus.
Just Breathe!
When you become overwhelmed with homework, it becomes difficult to focus. This is the time to stop and walk away for a moment. Slowly breathe and calm your mind with relaxing thoughts and visualizations. The work will still be there and you can return to it feeling refreshed and refocused.
Small changes like these can make a big impact on your (or your child’s) ability to complete your work without undue stress. It will decrease the stress level for parents and children and and bring peace to your evenings.
For more information about helping your child manage anxiety, please check out some of our other blogs on stress management To speak with one of our therapists, please feel free to contact us.