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Is too much homework stressing your kids?
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Homework reinforces learning and allows children to practice skills acquired during the school day. But parents across the country are asking “how much is too much?” Nancy Kalish, coauthor of “The Case Against Homework” says too much homework “swallows up the things that are part of a healthy childhood – like playing, exercising and quality time with parents…” In light of issues with local school districts and testing requirements, Kansas City kids may be getting more – rather than less – of their share of school work.
Rachelle, an Overland Park mom of three says her kids are managing their workload well, but “could stand a little more”. On the other hand, Kimberly, a mid-town single mother with two kids in the Kansas City, Missouri School District says “all the school’s care about is test scores”. Her kids’ work loads tends to be burdensome not only for the children, but for her as well. “More homework for the kids means more work for me too.”
Interestingly, a study directed by Dr. Harris Cooper of Duke University found no link between homework and elevated test scores in elementary school students. So, the question becomes do school-age children need massive amounts of homework and how much is too much?
Cooper believes ten minutes of homework per grade is good measure for most children. He’s not advocating for a ‘one size fits all’ methodology, but a customized approach. Some students may need more; others may need less. Parent and teacher partnerships best determine what’s best for each child.
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Common indicators your child has too much homework:
1. If the amount of homework regularly frustrates your child, there could be a problem. Undoubted, kids will complain about homework, but listen intently to determine if the issue if content or volume.
2. Homework shouldn’t inhibit family time or your child’s ability to become involved in activities outside of school.
3. Investigate if large amounts of homework prevent your child from producing quality work.
If you think your child is overwhelmed by school work, there are a few things you can do. First, talk to other parents and compare experiences. Secondly, discuss your concerns with your child’s teacher.
What do you think?
Article Source: Family Circle:
September 2007
“So much homework, so little time”
Other articles on the web:
"How much homework is too much?" Source: Today Show.Com
http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/31910894
"How Much Homework?" Source: "Go San Angelo" Times
http://www.gosanangelo.com/news/2009/sep/14/how-much-homework/
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