Homework often becomes a big challenge for both children and parents. It can either help raise grades or bring them down.
Many parents want to help their child get top marks and double-check homework after it’s done — especially if the child struggles at school.
But is this really helpful? Should parents check homework, or does it actually do more harm than good? Let’s figure it out.
Why do children need homework?
The point of homework is for a child to reinforce what they’ve learned in class. At school, kids study new material, and at home, they show how well they understood it — independently.
This helps the teacher see who can move forward and who needs more practice.
It’s an important part of the learning process that cannot be skipped.
Homework also teaches responsibility, discipline, and independence.
But when parents intervene too much, the learning process may break down.
Checking homework: pros and cons
For many parents, the arguments in favor seem obvious. By checking, they make sure the work is complete and correct. The result? A good grade.
Sometimes high marks for homework can even balance out poor performance in classwork, raising the overall average.
But is that really right?
If a child knows parents will always correct their mistakes, they stop trying to earn good grades on their own.
The teacher also loses valuable feedback. They simply won’t know if the student actually mastered the material.
Personal responsibility suffers too. And responsibility develops most actively during adolescence — an essential stage of growth.
Wouldn’t it be better to let the child earn an honest grade that reflects their real knowledge?
Consequences of constant checking
From a psychological point of view, correcting homework for a child can influence their whole life.
They may grow used to irresponsibility — expecting others to fix their mistakes. If parents always step in, there’s no reason to try harder. In adulthood, this habit can turn into constant reliance on others instead of taking responsibility.
Motivation to learn also fades. Why make an effort to understand subjects if parents will make sure the homework looks perfect anyway?
But parents can’t sit exams for their child. And they can’t transfer knowledge into their head.
How to help with homework the right way
Of course, children shouldn’t be left entirely on their own. But the level of parental involvement should depend on age.
First graders are just getting used to school. Homework is new to them. It’s usually simple, but mandatory.
Parents should explain that assignments must be completed and try to spark interest in doing them. Moms and dads can stay nearby but should only give hints when absolutely necessary — never doing the work instead.
If this approach is taken early, children will learn to complete tasks independently from the start.
As they grow older, parents only need to check if the work is done — maybe ask or remind them.
Trust is crucial. A child may feel hurt if they think a parent is checking homework not to help but to catch mistakes or prove they didn’t do it.
Don’t forget oral assignments either. These can always be practiced at home — reciting rules or retelling stories. Since children must present these in class, practicing with parents is a great idea.
Here you’ll also find some practical advice from a psychologist.
In every part of raising a child, trust and respect matter most. Speak the same language with your child, and you won’t need to do their homework for them. They will take responsibility themselves.
