Another School Implements No Homework Policy Because Yes, Parents Can Make a Difference

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In a refreshing move, P.S. 118 in Park Slope, Brooklyn, has decided to ditch traditional homework in favor of play-based learning. Instead of assigning tedious worksheets, they’re encouraging students to engage in activities like cooking with their families or conducting fun science experiments at home. Can I get a hallelujah?!

The initiative was sparked by parents at P.S. 118 who began sharing research on the benefits of less homework. After some thoughtful discussions and analysis, the school rolled out a creative program called “Exercise Your Brain.” This allows kids to pick from a rotating selection of engaging tasks, such as crafting flashcards for tricky words, writing letters to book characters, or even inventing their own board games.

Just imagine how much more enthusiastic your kids would be to tackle this type of “homework” versus slogging through five pages of bland worksheets. And parents? They would likely relish the chance to bond with their children while completing these enjoyable tasks. Let’s be real: which method is more effective for teaching a first-grader about fractions—filling out a worksheet or measuring ingredients for dinner? We think the latter wins hands down.

The debate over homework’s efficacy isn’t new, but it’s gaining traction. Recently, a Texas teacher went viral for announcing her second-grade class would have no homework this year. She highlighted research, including a well-known 2006 meta-analysis from Duke University, showing a weak link between homework and student achievement before seventh grade. In fact, excessive homework can lead to physical and emotional fatigue, foster negative attitudes towards learning, and cut into kids’ leisure time.

Now, many of us may reminisce about our own school days and think, “Tough luck! School is supposed to be hard, and homework isn’t meant to be fun. And you want me to worry about my kid’s ‘leisure time’? Please!” We get it.

However, the landscape of education has evolved, and so should our approaches. The expectations surrounding homework for young children are long overdue for a makeover. While change can be daunting—especially when it impacts our kids—we might find that eliminating homework for younger students in favor of engaging activities could be beneficial for families overall. Remember, parents have the power to advocate for these changes. Just ask the folks at P.S. 118.

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In summary, P.S. 118’s no homework policy is a progressive step toward enhancing children’s learning experiences and allowing families to engage in meaningful activities together. It’s a reminder that change is possible when parents unite for the benefit of their kids.