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Should We Really Eliminate Homework?
In August, a second-grade teacher, Hannah Blake, sent a note to her students’ parents announcing a homework hiatus. She stated, “Research hasn’t convincingly shown that homework boosts student performance. Instead, I encourage you to use your evenings for family dinners, reading time, outdoor play, and ensuring your child gets to bed early.”
As a dad of two elementary school kids—one in second grade and the other in fourth—and an educator at the college level, I find this topic quite intriguing. My journey in education began in Minnesota in 2009, and I’ve since worked in Oregon, filling roles from instructor to academic counselor, and even coordinating summer programs for students transitioning from high school to college.
Over the years, I’ve observed a notable trend: more and more freshmen struggle with managing their workload outside the classroom. Many appear to grapple with the very concept of hard work. While I haven’t conducted formal research, my experiences lead me to worry about my children not acquiring the necessary skills to thrive in college. This concern stems not from a lack of intelligence among students but from their struggles with the effort required to succeed in their courses.
I can’t challenge Ms. Blake’s assertion that homework has not been shown to promote better academic performance—especially for younger children. Studies indicate that homework at an early age can lead to fatigue, negative attitudes toward learning, and reduced leisure time. Yet, I can’t help but think back to my own upbringing in the ’80s on a small farm in Utah. My childhood was filled with tasks like mowing lawns, mending fences, and helping with cattle. I certainly had my share of chores, and while I might have grumbled about them, these activities instilled a strong work ethic in me, which has served me well in my academic and professional life.
In contrast, my kids’ lives are quite different. We live in a suburb and own an eighth of an acre, with no livestock and only a small vegetable garden. Their chores include taking care of a cat, cleaning their rooms, and helping with light gardening tasks. Compared to my childhood, they have far fewer responsibilities, and I worry they’re missing out on understanding what “real work” means in their context.
So what is this “real work” for kids today? In my father’s time, a strong work ethic was paramount, often more so than academic qualifications. Now, a college degree has become essential for securing a good job. However, in the shift from physical labor to mental engagement, I fear we might have overlooked the value of hard work.
This brings me back to the question of whether removing homework is truly beneficial. I wrestle with my kids over their homework just as my parents did with me about my chores. They’d rather be glued to their tablets than tackle a math problem.
I genuinely don’t know what the right amount of homework is for elementary-aged kids. Maybe it’s the 10-minute rule, or perhaps it’s a bit more. But setting the bar at zero worries me, especially considering the varying levels of preparedness I see in college freshmen today. I fear that my children may not be adequately equipped for the demands of college work.
In a world that prizes grit and perseverance, I want my kids to understand the importance of focus, struggle, and effort in their learning journey. Most importantly, I want them to learn that education doesn’t stop when the school bell rings; it continues until they truly master a concept. For that, I believe homework has a role to play.
For more insights on related topics, check out one of our other blog posts here. If you’re considering starting a family, Make a Mom provides helpful resources on home insemination kits. Additionally, NHS offers excellent information on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, while the debate over homework continues, it’s crucial to consider how work—in any form—shapes our children’s futures. Striking the right balance between academic responsibilities and personal development is key for preparing them for life beyond the classroom.