Most homework battles aren't really about the homework — they're about transitions. Children often resist switching from one activity to another, especially right after school when they're tired and want a break. Building in a short buffer, even ten quiet minutes with a snack, before homework starts can prevent a lot of friction.
Consistency matters more than the exact time you choose. Doing homework at the same time and in the same place every day — even a modest kitchen table — helps a child's brain settle into "this is homework time" faster than a routine that shifts daily.
Break big tasks into smaller, visible chunks. A worksheet with ten questions can feel overwhelming; splitting it into two sets of five with a short break between gives a natural sense of progress and a reason to keep going.
Praise effort and process, not just correct answers. "You stuck with that tricky question" builds resilience in a way that "good job, all correct" doesn't — especially for a child who struggles more than their classmates.
If homework consistently takes far longer than it should, or ends in tears most days, that's worth mentioning to your child's teacher. It's often useful information about where extra support could help, not a sign you're doing something wrong.