After a long and tiring day at school, it’s no surprise that Year 6 maths homework can feel like a struggle. By the time children get home, concentration can be low, and motivation can disappear fast.
With KS2 SATs approaching, maths homework plays an important role in reinforcing classroom learning. The key is helping your child in ways that build confidence — without turning evenings into a battleground.
Here are some simple, realistic ways to make Year 6 maths homework more manageable and less stressful.
Check what your children are studying in Year Six Maths
If terms like octahedron, long division, or ratio feel a bit hazy, you’re not alone.
Start by:
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talking to your child’s teacher about current maths topics
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checking the school website for the homework policy
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asking which areas your child finds hardest
This helps you understand expectations and focus your support where it’s most needed — without guessing.
Get into a homework routine
Routine matters more than duration.
Choose a regular time that works for your family:
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straight after school
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after a short break
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later in the evening
Many schools set homework soon after a topic is taught, while it’s still fresh. Once a routine is established, children often feel more confident and less resistant.
Consistency helps maths homework feel normal — not overwhelming.
Create a fun schedule
Planning doesn’t need to be complicated.
You could:
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create a weekly homework planner together
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tick tasks off once they’re done
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use free planner apps if that’s easier
When children can see what needs doing — and when — maths homework becomes more predictable and less daunting.
Set up a Dedicated Homework Space
A calm environment makes a real difference.
Aim for:
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a quiet area away from screens
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a clear table or desk
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minimal distractions
This helps children focus, especially when working through multi-step maths problems.
Make a Homework Box
A simple but effective idea.
Use an old shoebox and fill it with:
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pencils and pens
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ruler and protractor
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rubber and sharpener
Having everything ready avoids interruptions and helps children stay focused on the maths, not hunting for equipment.
Get some help with Year Six Maths
Maths itself hasn’t changed, but how it’s taught often has, which can make supporting homework tricky for parents.
Many families use SATs Companion to support Year 6 maths at home because it:
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provides SATs-style maths practice
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gives instant marking and feedback
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identifies gaps quickly
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reduces pressure on parents to “explain everything”
It’s designed to support learning without adding to family stress.
Turn Maths into an everyday topic
Maths is everywhere:
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cooking and measuring
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shopping and budgeting
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telling the time
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travelling distances
Pointing out maths in daily life helps children see its purpose — and often reduces maths anxiety.
Trusted resources like BBC Bitesize also offer short, clear explanations that reinforce classroom learning.
Don’t do their homework for them
This is one of the hardest, but most important rules.
Support your child by:
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asking questions
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encouraging them to explain their thinking
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guiding them back to examples
But let them do the thinking. Independence builds confidence and long-term understanding.
Focus on Thinking, not just Correct Answers
When your child struggles, share your own experiences of finding something difficult and improving over time.
Remind them:
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mistakes are part of learning
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effort matters more than speed
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understanding grows with practice
Reducing pressure often leads to better results.
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With the right routines, environment, and support, Year 6 maths homework doesn’t have to be a daily struggle.
Small changes can make a big difference, helping maths feel achievable, relevant, and even enjoyable.
If you’re looking for structured support aligned with KS2 SATs, SATs Companion can help children practise maths, build confidence, and track progress, without waiting for parents’ evening.