Finding Single Mom Help with Homework

“How are you juggling everything?” That’s a question you’re accustomed to hearing. It’s true. You juggle housework, your career, and the lives of your children. Just when you think you have successfully completed level one of single motherhood, your child’s mid-semester report comes in, and you realize that in all your juggling, you dropped a ball or two.

While some children are self-motivated and capable of completing their homework without outside assistance and reminders, many children lack this self-discipline. For the single mom, finding time, let alone energy, to help with homework after a long day on the job can feel not only impractical but downright exhausting.

If you’re a single mom struggling to keep your kids’ homework on track, here are a few ideas that might help.

Be transparent Keep in open communication with your child’s school. Let them know that you’re a single, working mom and that you can’t devote a lot of time to homework. Most schools will do their best to help the student complete assignments in class, especially if they know that doing homework might be a challenge.

Communicate regularly Keep an open channel of communication with your child’s school. Make sure that your contact information is up to date so that they have an easy and effective way of communicating with you. Ask questions of your child’s teachers to ensure that any issues with grades are addressed immediately instead of allowing them to snowball.

Find help Some schools offer after-school tutoring. If yours does not, look to local community resources such as the Boys and Girls Clubs or local churches that might offer assistance with homework. If your area does not have a homework-helping program, consider hiring a tutor or asking a friend or relative to step in to assist in this way.

Offer rewards Ultimately, the best way to get your child’s homework completed is to help them get motivated and learn responsibly. Create attainable goals and reward your child when they are successful. Rewards don’t have to be extravagant or expensive. They could be as simple as extra screen time or allowing them to choose what they want for dinner.

Maintain perspective Of course, your child’s education is important, but is getting a D in math really going to change the course of their life? Unless you or your child has high aspirations of the Ivy League variety, one or two missed assignments or the occasional lower grade won’t have a big impact on their life. Encourage them to do their best and offer help, but try to keep a healthy perspective.

Consider therapy Therapy isn’t just a resource for mental illness. If your child struggles with concentration or self-motivation, seek professional counseling. A therapist can help determine whether your child has a learning disorder, is going through trauma, or what might be causing their difficulty in school.

Encouragement for Moms

Parenting alone can feel overwhelming, but you are never truly alone. Even in your darkest, loneliest moments, God is with you and wants to help. All you have to do is ask. He will show up for you and help you find the practical help you and your child need. You’re doing good, mama, and with a little strategy and support, you and your child will overcome this obstacle. Think of the celebration you will have when the next report card comes in!