Homework Help and Establishing Strong Routines: Therapy Tips for a Successful School Year

The start of a new school year brings fresh opportunities and new challenges. For many families, homework struggles and inconsistent routines can quickly become a source of stress. At York Paediatric Therapy Services, we understand how important structure and consistency are for a child’s success. Whether your child receives therapy support or not, establishing strong daily routines and setting up a positive homework environment can make a big difference.

Below are occupational and speech therapy-informed tips to help your child thrive at home and in the classroom this school year.

1. Create Predictable Routines

Children feel more confident and in control when they know what to expect. Morning and evening routines help reduce anxiety, improve time management, and set the tone for the day.

Tips to Try: 

• Use a visual schedule with pictures or checklists to guide your child through daily activities, from getting dressed to brushing teeth to packing their school bag.

•   Stick to consistent wake-up, mealtime, and bedtime hours, even on weekends.

• Offer gentle reminders and praise for following routines independently.

2. Build a Homework-Friendly Environment

A cluttered or noisy space can make it harder for children to focus and complete homework. Setting up a consistent and distraction-free homework zone helps them stay on task and feel more in control.

Tips to Try:

• Choose a quiet, well-lit space free of screens and toys.

• Stock the area with age-appropriate supplies (pencils, scissors, paper, etc.).

• Use a timer or visual countdown to break work into manageable chunks (e.g., 15 minutes of work, 5-minute break).

3. Encourage Executive Function Skills

Homework success isn’t just about what your child knows; it’s about how they plan, organize, and manage their time. These executive function skills can be especially difficult for children with learning or attention challenges.

Tips to Try:

• Break big tasks into smaller steps and write them down.

• Use checklists, colour-coded folders, or calendars to help with organization.

• Encourage your child to talk through their plan before starting a homework task.

  
  

4. Support Language and Communication

For some children, especially those receiving speech therapy, understanding instructions or expressing ideas in writing can be tough.

Tips to Try:

• Read assignment instructions together and ask your child to explain them in their own words.

• Use graphic organizers or story maps to help plan written work.

• Encourage verbal rehearsal by talking through answers before writing them down.

5. Balance Work and Play

Homework is important, but so is downtime. Children need opportunities to recharge through movement, play, and social interaction.

Tips to Try:

• Schedule homework at a consistent time after school, but allow for a short break and snack first.

• Include daily physical activity opportunities, whether playing outside, dancing, or doing yoga.

• End the day with a calming routine to support restful sleep.

At York Paediatrics, we believe that strong routines, supportive environments, and therapeutic strategies at home can help your child build the skills they need to succeed. If you’re looking for more individualized support this school year, our team is here to help guide you every step of the way.