How do I get my teen to do their homework?
Without adding stress
Updated April 6, 2026 • Medically reviewed by Dr. Alex Ho
Medically reviewed by Dr. Alex HoIn this article
How do I get my teen to do their homework?
If your teen isn’t doing their homework, you can point them in the right direction by helping them build structure, breaking tasks down, and knowing when to seek help.
Teens may not be doing homework for a variety of reasons, from feelings of anxiety and stress to confusion about where to begin.
Knowing why your teen is not doing their homework can help. It is usually more than just laziness - your teen probably wants to do their homework, they just don't know how.
How to deal with a teenager not doing homework?
The best way to support your teen is by creating structure, reducing overwhelm, and helping them build small, achievable habits around homework. Instead of simply telling them to do their homework, look at the material with them, and work together to find methods and routines that suit them.
To get your teenager to do their homework, you may want to:
- Create a study schedule: help them plan specific times for homework during the week so it feels predictable and less overwhelming
- Break tasks into smaller chunks: encourage them to tackle one small task at a time to build momentum and confidence
- Limit phone use during study time: suggest keeping their phone in another room or using focus and healthy habits apps to reduce distractions
- Set realistic goals: agree on small, achievable goals for each session and celebrate when they complete them
- Seek support from school: with their permission, speak to teachers to understand how they’re doing and what might help
It can also really help to keep conversations open. Checking in on how they’re feeling and reminding them it’s okay to ask for help can reduce pressure and make it easier for them to engage.
What to do when your teen refuses to do their homework?
If your teen refuses to do homework, try to avoid turning it into a constant battle. Focus on understanding why they’re resisting and work together to find a way forward.
You could:
- Start with a calm conversation: ask what’s making homework difficult - they may be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unmotivated
- Avoid power struggles: repeated arguments can make resistance stronger, so it’s often better to pause and reset
- Offer support, not control: let them know you’re there to help, but encourage them to take ownership of their work
- Focus on small steps: Getting started is often the hardest part - so remind them that even 10 minutes can make a difference
Why is my teen struggling with homework?
Teens can struggle with homework for lots of reasons, including feeling overwhelmed, lacking motivation, difficulty concentrating, or not understanding the work. It’s usually not that they don't care. Rather, something is getting in the way.
Your teen may be struggling with homework before:
- Feeling overwhelmed: large amounts of work or unclear tasks can make it hard to know where to start
- Low motivation: if homework feels boring or irrelevant, it’s easy for teens to put it off
- Lack of confidence: if they don’t understand the work, they may avoid it altogether
- Distractions: phone addiction, social media, and other distractions can make it harder to focus
- Tiredness or burnout: long school days can leave teens with very little energy for homework
- ADHD or focus difficulties: Teens with ADHD may struggle with organisation, starting tasks, and staying focused - even if they want to do well
What to remember if your teen is not doing their homework
Homework struggles are really common, and it can be frustrating when it turns into a daily battle. But in most cases, your teen isn’t being difficult on purpose - they’re finding something about the process challenging.
By creating structure, breaking things into manageable steps, and keeping communication open, you can help them build confidence and better habits over time.
If your teen needs extra support, introduce them to luna - a space designed to help young people stay motivated, manage schoolwork, and feel more in control of their routines.
How we created this article:
luna's team of experts comprises GPs, Dermatologists, Safeguarding Leads and Junior Doctors as well as Medical Students with specialised interests in paediatric care, mental health and gynaecology. All articles are created by experts, and reviewed by a member of luna's senior review team.
Sources:
NHS "Tips on preparing for exams"
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/children-and-young-adults/help-for-teenagers-young-adults-and-students/tips-on-preparing-for-examsWe'd love to keep in touch!
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