8 Ways to Clean Up Messy Homework

Follow these simple steps for stress-free schoolwork.

Jul 20, 2022

Ages

8-10

8 Ways to Clean Up Messy Homework

Jul 20, 2022

If your child gets easily overwhelmed or distracted, messy homework can often become the end result. Sometimes their homework can be disorganized or otherwise illegible, but there are tricks to getting your child's homework in tip-top shape to be handed in. 

Remember, taking the time to give your child plenty of brain breaks and time to play between coming home from school and beginning their homework assignments makes all the difference in how they complete it. For example, reading together or journaling are both really effective ways of winding down after school. If you're still seeing your child's homework be disorganized, try the below tips.

Evaluate your child's work. Check their assignments before they turn them in, and have them recopy anything that is illegible. You could even come up with your own neatness grading system — but keep it lighthearted to make them laugh and encourage them to try again. For example, you can say something like, "I give this assignment one garbage truck — it's nice and clear!" or "This one gets three trucks — it needs a little more work."

Understand the source. Is it only the math homework that's crowded with doodles and scribbles? Maybe your child doesn't grasp the concepts. Brush up on the basics so you can help them, and talk to their teacher about their struggles. Your child might even benefit from a tutor or other homework helper.

Provide the proper tools. Often, messy homework assignments are a result of a lack of organization. Give your child the supplies they need to stay organized and keep their homework neat. Try a three-ring binder with color-coded folders, one for each subject. If their favorite color is red, assign the red folder to their favorite subject. 

Clean up their work environment. The kitchen table usually isn't the optimal place for your child to work. Create an orderly workspace, complete with well-organized files, pens, pencils, and other supplies that is effective but still comfortable. Provide small, nourishing snacks that will help them concentrate.

Make lists. A disorganized child may find themselves easily overwhelmed. To help them start their homework routine on the right foot, make a simple, clear list of the tasks that they need to complete: take the backpack to homework desk, have snack, feed pets, do math problems, and so on. 

Establish routines. Poor time management can lead to sloppy assignments, too. Reserve a reliable chunk for homework every day. This time should be consistent yet flexible. The flexibility will teach them to be realistic about time management as they get older. 

Explain why. To your child, being neat may seem pointless. Spell it out for them: there is an association between messiness and grades. Their teacher can't read their homework if it's covered in scribbles, eraser marks, and food spills. 

Allow for natural consequences. If your clean-it-up pleas and helpful hints still aren't working, let your child experience whatever consequence their teacher may dish out, like a lower grade, having to redo their work during recess, or missing out on a special award. Sometimes seeing the end result for themselves is the most effective way to get them to make real-world connections.

Get ready for your child to go back to school with our guide — it's full of recommended books, teacher tips, homework help, and more resources for a successful school year.

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Reading Comprehension
Attention and Focus
Getting Organized
Writing
Handwriting
Age 10
Age 9
Age 8
Child Development and Behavior
Motivation Ideas
Time Management and Organization
Routines