Parenting
How Are Your Children Observing ‘No Homework Day’? by Sarah Johnson
Updated: Dec. 18, 2015 Originally Published: May 6, 2015
Reports indicate that children in the United States may be dedicating as much as 17.5 hours each week solely to homework. This figure excludes the time spent in classrooms, extracurricular activities, or events like sports and performances—it’s strictly about homework. If you find that number surprising, you’re not alone. A teenager could easily invest those hours into a part-time job. And what about the teens juggling school and a job? How can they possibly manage it all? For kids and teens who aren’t employed, devoting up to 17.5 hours weekly to homework still poses a significant challenge, leaving little room for after-school play, family meals, or weekend adventures.
While various sources cite differing amounts of weekly homework time, many parents feel their children are overwhelmed and have voiced their concerns about the need for less homework. A quick search for “reducing homework” will reveal numerous forums and websites dedicated to the topic. Some schools have started to lighten the homework load, receiving positive feedback from parents in the process.
A study from Stanford University discovered that students who dedicate excessive time to schoolwork outside regular hours often experience heightened stress levels and various health issues. In a piece on Scholastic, educator Mark Thompson differentiates between a teacher assigning homework based on the day’s lessons and one who pre-determines nightly assignments regardless of what was covered in class.
This distinction is crucial. Homework aimed at reinforcing learning is beneficial and aligns with our goal of education. However, assigning homework merely to fulfill a requirement can feel redundant and burdensome. We shouldn’t eliminate homework entirely, but we also need to ensure that kids aren’t swamped with it, leaving them with little time for anything else. So, let’s make the most of No Homework Day this Wednesday, celebrating a break from the academic grind.
This article was originally published on May 6, 2015.
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Summary:
Children in the U.S. are reportedly spending a staggering amount of time on homework, which raises concerns among parents about their overall workload. While some schools are responding positively to calls for reduced homework, it’s essential to strike a balance that allows kids to enjoy their time outside of academics. No Homework Day serves as a reminder to appreciate the importance of downtime for students.