What if my child starts ignoring homework because peers do the same? 

Parenting Perspective 

It is frustrating when your child begins to neglect their homework, claiming that their classmates are doing the same. Peer influence is powerful, and a child’s logic is often simple: ‘If my friends do not take this seriously, why should I?’ If left unaddressed, this habit can harm not only your child’s learning but also their developing sense of responsibility. The aim is to help them understand that their choices must be guided by your family’s values and their own long-term benefit, not by the behaviour of their peers. 

Why Children Copy Homework Avoidance 

Understanding the motivation behind this behaviour allows you to respond with empathy while still reinforcing your standards. Children often copy this because: 

• They see their friends enjoying extra free time and feel they are missing out. 

• They fear being labelled as ‘boring’ or ‘too serious’ if they do their work. 

• They assume that if others are skipping it, then it must be an acceptable choice. 

Reaffirm Homework as a Family Expectation 

State calmly and consistently that completing homework is a non-negotiable expectation in your home. For example: ‘Even if other children are not doing their work, in our family, we always complete our tasks. That is our standard.’ When your expectations are clear and steady, your child learns that family values outweigh peer trends. 

Connect Effort to Personal Growth 

Help your child see homework not just as a school rule, but as a tool for their own benefit. You could say: ‘Completing your work helps you to become smarter and more capable, not just for school, but for your entire future.’ This shifts the focus from external pressure to intrinsic motivation. 

Build Routine and Accountability 

Create a predictable structure that makes homework a normal part of the day. Set a regular time and a dedicated, distraction-free space for studying. Your presence nearby for support and encouragement can also reduce the temptation to follow the crowd. 

Praise Effort, Not Just Results 

When your child completes their homework, praise the effort and discipline it took, regardless of the final mark. For instance: ‘I am proud that you finished your work tonight. That shows real responsibility.’ This reinforces the value of diligence as part of their identity. 

Offer Positive Peer Models 

Where possible, gently encourage friendships with classmates who have a positive attitude towards learning. The influence of even one or two diligent peers can provide a powerful counterbalance to the negative influence of others. 

By combining clear expectations with structure and encouragement, you can help your child resist unhealthy peer pressure and take ownership of their responsibilities. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that diligence, effort, and fulfilling one’s responsibilities are integral to a person’s faith. Copying others in the neglect of duties is a path that weakens both character and trustworthiness. A child must learn that every deed is significant, whether their peers are watching or not. 

Every action, no matter how small, is seen by Allah and will be accounted for. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Zalzalah (99), Verses 7–8: 

‘Thus, everyone’s actions equivalent to the measurement of an atom that is good shall be observed by them (on the Day of Judgment). And everyone’s actions equivalent to the measurement of an atom that is wicked shall be observed by them (on the Day of Judgment).‘ 

This verse is a powerful reminder that every action matters. Completing a small piece of homework with sincerity is a good deed that Allah sees, just as neglecting it is a matter that is also recorded. 

The most beloved deeds are those that are performed consistently. 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6464, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The most beloved deeds to Allah are those that are consistent, even if small.’ 

This hadith teaches a profound lesson about the value of steady effort. The daily, consistent act of completing one’s duties, like homework, is more beloved to Allah than grand but infrequent gestures. By guiding your child to be diligent in their work, you are nurturing discipline and faith, teaching them that true success is measured by sincerity and effort in the sight of Allah.