Champcampz

Is homework time a little distracting? Try one of these strategies! Let us know what works best for your family or any other helpful tips!

1. Burn Off the Extra Energy

Start off with a physical activity before getting down to work. Burning off excess energy will help improve focus for more academic or mental tasks. Simple Ways to Burn Off the Energy

Neighborhood walk
Fun workout video
Dance along videos
Backyard relay races
Running in place
Indoor balloon games (keep it up in the air, volleyball)
Activity dice
Glide on hard floors with socks
Play catch with a ping pong ball
Pull the mattress on the floor and let them jump
Ride around the block on bikes or scooters
Use painter’s tape on the floor to make obstacle courses
Play pool noodle hockey/baseball with a balloon

2. Take a Brain Break

After a hard assignment, take a minute to reset the brain and get the wiggles out. Do a little dancing, jog in place, pretend to climb a mountain… there’s tons of ideas out there! Brain breaks also help with transitioning from one subject/task to another.

3. Play Video Game Soundtracks / Instrumental Music

Music is part of the reason why your little gamer could play for hours and hours. Video game soundtracks are specially designed to help gamers focus on tasks. Find an instrumental playlist your child likes and have it on in the background as they work on school assignments. Bonus Tip: Instrumental versions of pop songs are a big hit with older kids.

4. Use a Visual Timer

This website has over 30 visual timers to help kids stay focused and excited to beat the clock! You can also find a video timer with fun themes on YouTube like this 5-minute Star Wars timer or this 2-minute radial timer. Visual timers are also great for young kids who don’t understand the concept of telling time yet.

5. Change Up the Seating

Sometimes, a regular old chair and desk just doesn’t work. Changing up the position of learning (aka flexible seating) can sometimes help kids focus better. Flexible Seating Ideas at Home:

Yoga ball
Bean bag chairs
Stools
Laying on their tummy
Standing while working
Cushions or mats
Low coffee table
Floor pillows
Lawn chair
Walking with clipboard
Designate their own Thinking Chair!

6. Establish a Secret Signal

Come up with a secret signal beforehand that gives your child a little reminder to stay focused. It’s a great way to get the message across without embarrassment or constantly repeating “focus on your work!” This strategy works especially well when you’re working with multiple kids.