Create a calm space, set predictable routines, teach smart study habits (short, focused blocks + breaks), build a daily reading habit, guide without doing the work, and stay in regular contact with teachers. Use the checklists and scripts below.
Set the foundations: mindset & routines
Growth mindset language: praise effort, strategy and persistence (“You kept trying different methods”) instead of talent alone.
Predictability beats intensity: short, regular study blocks built into the day outperform last-minute cramming.
Family calendar: exams, projects, sport, and cultural events visible to everyone.
Create a learning-ready space
Quiet, consistent spot (desk or table) with good light and a supportive chair.
Tools within reach: basic stationery, sticky notes, highlighters, timer, water bottle.
Minimal clutter: a tray/box for each subject; pack away when done to signal “off duty.”
Daily & weekly rhythms that work
After-school flow (example):
Snack → 20–30 min movement → 25 min focused work → 5 min break → repeat → pack bag → free time.
Weekly reset (15 min, Sun):
Check school portal/WhatsApp groups.
Map tests/activities to a simple weekly plan.
Choose three priorities for the week.
Study habits that actually help
Pomodoro: 25 minutes focus + 5 minutes break; 3–4 cycles then a longer break.
Spaced practice: revisit work over days/weeks, not once.
Active recall: close the book and test yourself (flashcards, quick quizzes, teach-back).
Interleaving: mix similar topics (e.g., maths problem types) to strengthen transfer.
Dual coding: pair words with quick diagrams, timelines or mind maps.
Reading culture at home
Daily 15: read together or side-by-side for 15 minutes.
Talk about stories and facts; ask why/how questions.
Build a home library corner (bought, borrowed, or swapped).
Use both home language and school language to deepen vocabulary.
Screens, devices & focus
One screen at a time for study; silence notifications.
Agree on device parking during homework and at bedtime.
Use focus aids: timer, website blockers (if needed), printed notes for heavy reading.
Balance: for every hour of screen-based work, aim for 10–15 min movement.
How to help with homework (without doing it)
Start with clarifying questions: “What’s the task asking?” “What have you tried?”
Offer scaffolds, not answers: hints, worked examples, checklists.
Encourage teach-back: “Explain it to me like I’m a classmate.”
If they’re stuck after effort, write a brief note to the teacher describing what was attempted.
Age-by-age guidance
Foundation Phase (Grade R–3):
Keep sessions short (10–15 min). Practise phonics, sight words, counting, fine-motor tasks.
Turn chores into maths/language moments (measuring, lists).
Intermediate Phase (Grade 4–6):
Introduce planners, subject folders, and study cycles (learn → recall → review).
Build vocabulary notebooks by subject.
Senior/High School (Grade 7–12):
Weekly subject goal setting + review; past papers under timed conditions.
Specific strategies: summaries → flashcards → self-testing; exam “error logs.”
Assessment & exam prep
Back-plan from the date: schedule small chunks for each topic.
Past papers: mark with a memo, then fix mistakes and re-attempt.
Exam day routine: sleep 8+ hours, light breakfast, water + simple stationery kit.
Troubleshooting & red flags
Constant tears or avoidance, frequent headaches, or hours of homework nightly in junior grades.
Sudden drop in marks, missing tasks, or comments about focus.
Raise concerns with the teacher/tutor/phase head; ask about supports (study skills groups, learning support, counselling).
Parent checklists & scripts
Home setup checklist
Quiet, consistent study spot
Timer + stationery ready
Family calendar/weekly planner visible
Device/notification rules agreed
Bag packed each night (diary signed)
Daily routine checklist
Snack + movement before homework
2–4 focused blocks with breaks
One self-test or teach-back per subject
Pack bag + set out uniform
Lights-out routine
Quick parent scripts (copy/paste)
Goal setting: “What’s the one thing you want done in the next 25 minutes?”
Stuck: “Show me where it went from clear to confusing.”
Accountability: “Teach me the three key steps you used.”
Encouragement: “I noticed your effort on [specific step]—that strategy is working.”
Boundaries: “I’m here to help you think. The answers need to be yours.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should homework take?
Foundation Phase: 10–30 min; Intermediate: 45–60 min; Senior: varies by load (aim for focused blocks, not marathon sessions).
What if my child leaves everything to the last minute?
Create a daily 25-minute non-negotiable study block and use a visual planner. Start with the smallest next step to reduce overwhelm.
Do tutors help?
They can—especially for gaps or confidence dips. Coordinate with the subject teacher so support aligns with class methods.
How can we support multiple children?
Stagger start times by 10 minutes; rotate adult check-ins; use a shared timer and central calendar.
My child has activities most afternoons. Tips?
Use micro-blocks (15–20 min) before/after practice; keep a grab-and-go study kit; protect sleep.