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The Challenges of Homework: A Parent’s Perspective
Updated: November 20, 2014
Originally Published: March 24, 2009
As a parent, I must admit that I have a strong aversion to homework. The act of completing it, assisting with it, and even its very concept brings me frustration. My child is in kindergarten, and while it might seem humorous, the amount of homework he receives is quite substantial.
Every week, he receives a packet filled with worksheets that are due by Thursday. Unfortunately, the instructions are often vague, leaving me puzzled about what is expected of him and how to guide him. Additionally, there are worksheets intended to be completed in class, which merely say “please finish” without any clear directions. I frequently find myself asking, “Do you remember what to do here?” but it often leaves both of us feeling lost.
The situation is further complicated by reading books, poetry folders, and surprisingly, family homework. Family homework? I went to kindergarten, so I’m not sure why that’s necessary now.
I may come off as disgruntled, but I grow weary each night battling over homework. It’s exhausting to teach concepts that haven’t been adequately covered in class but are still assigned for homework. My husband and I both work, and our evenings are a whirlwind of dinner preparation followed by the homework struggle. After that, it’s bath time, bed, and we start the cycle again the next day. My son often expresses surprise on the rare days when we declare there’s no homework, typically on the weekends.
Moreover, research suggests that assigning homework in the early grades does little to enhance learning. Instead, it may lead to burnout without fostering genuine educational growth. Our homework sessions often end in tears—some of which are mine. I fear that by first grade, my son might develop a distaste for learning altogether. What lesson does this send to a young child?
Let me clarify: I am not against education. I’m a lawyer who actively volunteers at my child’s school and strongly values literacy. However, I question the effectiveness of worksheets and nightly assignments for a five-year-old. It’s important to recognize that as children progress into higher grades, it’s often the parents who are completing these assignments alongside them, which detracts from the learning experience.
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In summary, the homework load for young children often leads to frustration for both parents and kids. The lack of clarity in assignments and the pressure to complete them can overshadow the joy of learning. It’s essential to find a balance that fosters education without overwhelming our children.