Does it have any beneficial effect on the educational success of your child or is it just busywork? That is a question with much debate over the years but with no concrete answers. Some teachers see no educational value in homework especially in the lower grades of the elementary school. Other teachers believe that homework is essential to increase the academic success of the child by helping to build a firm foundation.
Is it just mindless busywork or is there some educational value in it? We all know that mindless busywork does not contribute to the educational success of the student. Others complain about the amount of time spent on homework as being overwhelming and interfering with family life and activities. Elementary homework that is not purposeful and directed takes valuable time away from families that could be spent on something much more worthwhile.
A limited amount of purposeful homework given to reinforce the learning at school definitely adds to the educational success of the student. Meaningful homework helps to prepare your child for middle school, high school, and even college. Below are some homework guidelines and parent tips to help students, parents, and teachers make homework beneficial.
Homework should be a priority. It should not be an option. No excuses. Provide a quiet area for child to complete homework. Be available for assistance. Amount of time spent on homework should not be excessive if your child is staying on task while completing the homework. See the 10 minute rule below. It is only a guideline not an established rule.
If the elementary homework appears to be excessive, it is wise to check into the possible reasons. Don’t jump to a negative conclusion before seeking to understand the amount of homework given. If necessary, contact your child’s teacher in a non-confrontational way. Being supportive of your child’s teacher is very important. Never be negative about the teacher in front of your child.
Check your child’s homework with them and make it a learning process to contribute to their academic success.