Too much or not enough?
To help or not to help?
Homework…these are the questions.
When I was asked about it recently, I realized I have very strong opinions on the subject. Here are a few of the things I feel passionately about:
- Homework should be either a review, a reflection or an extension of something learned in class. It should NEVER be new material assigned for a student to learn by himself because the teacher doesn’t have time to teach it
- Unless otherwise specified by the teacher, a parent’s role in homework is to make sure your child understands the assignment and make sure he does the assignment. That’s it! Homework is used as a tool for the teacher to know what the child is capable of doing on his own outside of class. You are not doing your child a favor when you micro-manage or correct your child’s homework. It isn’t your homework! And besides, we always know 😉
- The amount of homework to give is one of the most difficult issues to manage for teachers. What may be too much for one child in the class may seem not enough for another based on learning style, organizational skills and the subject matter. Expectations of the (collective) parent body, school, school district, etc. also factors into homework. Not to make excuses, but it is hard to please everyone!
When in doubt about a teacher’s homework policy or the type or amount of homework your child is getting, don’t be afraid to talk to the teacher and explain any concerns you have or difficulties your child may be experiencing.
Angela – thanks for posting! My middle daughter goes to a school for kids with language based learning differences. Their homework philosophy is great. Homework takes 15 min tops. Parents are not allowed to assist or correct – they want to see that the child retained what was taught that day. Also, if the child is sick, work is never sent home. They feel that missed work has not been taught yet and should be done so when the child returns. Can’t tell you what a pleasure this is!!
Now, if I could only get the other girls’ school on board!!
Be well,
Anne
Sounds like a smart approach Anne. It’s amazing how far many have come from such a position! Thanks for commenting.
Such a timely article…so many of us parents want to strike that perfect balance of helping but also stepping back and letting our kids figure things out!
I completely agree that when the parent is doing the homework for their child it completely defeats the purpose…even though it can be tempting to jump in 🙂
I’ve also found that I may have learned something in a different our outdated way so I tend to step back and let my daughter do her thing! If in doubt we’re lucky enough to have a teacher that is happy to reply to emails in the evening!
Loved this article and will be sharing it with some friends!
Thanks Kia. It’s definitely tricky…wanting our kids to do well, but knowing that we need to step back & let them independently grow!
I really enjoyed this post!
Angela, I could not agree more. Thanks so much for your opinion. We were lost with homework etc…. Xoxo pls visit us in Paris and BTW your daughter is beautiful!
I’m happy that you found it helpful Judith. It’s hard not to jump in! Would love to see you all real soon.