9 July 2025

Is Homework the New Bewitching Hour?

By Elena Lewis HOD Occupational Therapy at Bellavista School

Ah the witching hour- many of us experienced this when our children were newborns. It was a time when our otherwise content baby was extremely fussy. It typically occurred later in the afternoon around 5pm. It could last anywhere from a few minutes to a couple of hours. Fast forward to your school-aged children and homework time, and it feels all too familiar!

As parents, we have all experienced it- the dreaded homework time that turns our sweet children into irritable, restless, and overwhelmed beings. But why does this seemingly simple task become such a battle? As an occupational therapist with a sensory integration background, and a mother to two girls, I want to assure you that there’s a deeper reason behind this struggle. Let’s explore why homework is important, the challenges children face, and how movement can help transform this daily ritual into a more manageable experience.

The Importance of Homework

Homework reinforces learning, builds responsibility, and helps children develop problem-solving skills. It also provides teachers with insight into how well a student grasps the material. But for some children, particularly those who may have neurodevelopmental disorders, the challenges go beyond understanding the content. Even those without learning challenges may struggle due to sensory processing difficulties or simply a long day at school that has left them mentally and physically exhausted.

Why Is Homework So Hard?

Many children, regardless of diagnosis, face obstacles that impact their ability to focus and complete tasks. These challenges include:

• Sensory Processing Differences: Some children are overly sensitive to sounds, lights, and textures, making it hard to concentrate.
• Executive Functioning Struggles: Difficulty in planning, organising, and starting tasks can make homework feel overwhelming.
• Attention Difficulties: Whether due to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, anxiety or general fatigue, staying on task can be a real challenge.
• Emotional Regulation Issues: Frustration, anxiety, and low self-esteem can cause meltdowns or avoidance behaviours.
• Physical Restlessness: Sitting still after a long school day can be nearly impossible for some children.

Movement Is Medicine

Did you know that our bodies are meant to move every 20 to 30 minutes so it goes without saying that one of the most effective ways to support a child’s focus and self-regulation during homework time is through movement. When the body moves, the brain releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter that enhances alertness, attention, and motivation- exactly what’s needed for homework success. Incorporating movement before or during homework breaks can help children regulate their bodies and minds, making the experience far less stressful for everyone. 

The Self-Regulation Activity Jar

Think of sensory input like food for the brain- children need the right ‘diet’ of movement and sensory activities to stay alert and focused. Creating a Self-Regulation Activity Jar can be a game-changer for homework time. Here’s how it works:

1. Gather supplies: Write different movement activities on ice cream sticks or small folded papers.
2. Get creative: Decorate a jar, hat, or box to hold the activities.
3. Use it strategically: Have your child pick 5-8 activities before homework, during breaks, or whenever they need to reset.
4. Model participation: Join in on the activities and make it a family affair!

Movement Activities to Try:

• Run on the spot for 30 seconds
• Wall sit for 30 seconds (repeat 2-3 times)
• Downward dog for 30 seconds
• Bear walk across the room or around dining table
• Crab walk along a corridor to retrieve your homework diary from your bag
• Jump like a kangaroo 20 times 
• Wall push-ups (15-10 reps)
• Toe touches (15-20 reps)
• Plank hold (30 seconds to 1 minute)
• Bubble blowing with a straw (deep breathing focus)
• Give yourself a big, tight hug for 30 seconds
• Donkey kicks (20-30)

Making It Work for Your Child

These activities aren’t about punishment; they’re about helping children find the right balance between energy levels and focus. Encourage your child to recognise when their ‘engine’ is running too fast or too slow, and use movement to find that ‘just right’ zone.

By integrating movement, sensory strategies, and a little creativity into your homework routine, you can turn the ‘bewitching hour’ into a more positive, productive, and even enjoyable experience for the whole family. Try it out, and watch the magic happen! For more resources, visit www.bellavista.org.za