The study says:
• Homework loads vary widely and there is little or no consistency among teachers and schools.
• Ontario students spend more time on homework than their peers in other provinces.
• Parents say their overworked kids don’t have enough time for much-needed unstructured play, family time and physical activity.
• Homework is a big cause of arguments and power struggles.
• What’s more, there is little evidence that homework is of any benefit to kids in kindergarten through to Grade 6.
What you can do
• Talk to your child’s teacher and principal. Ask if the school has a homework policy and speak up if you think your child is doing too much work. TIP: The rule of thumb is a maximum of 10 minutes of homework a night per grade level. (Ten minutes for a Grade 1 student; 20 for a Grade 2 student, etc.)
• Get involved. I’m on the parent council at my kids’ school. It gives me a voice in their education. For example, the Toronto School Board is developing a formal homework policy and I’m attending the meetings that allow parents to have a say.
• Make reading a priority. Researchers say it’s the only "work" shown to actually boost elementary kids’ academic success.
Here’s to happy and healthy families!
Kathryn
