Homework has been a component of formal schooling in the United States for over 100 years. With the pressure created by No

Child Left Behind, high stakes testing, and rising academic standards, homework is likely to be a regular part of your child’s entire school career.

Why homework?

Homework can have positive benefits for young children beyond just improving schoolwork.  It allows students to develop independence and a sense of responsibility. Homework can also help students to develop time management and study skills that will be valuable long after they leave school.

What is a reasonable amount of homework?

The amount of homework should depend on the age and skill of the student. Generally speaking, an effective homework program increases about 10 minutes per night with each grade level. Children in kindergarten through second grade should average about 10 – 20 minutes of homework each night. In third through six grades, children receive maximum benefit with 30 – 60 minutes of nightly homework. Once children enter junior and senior high school, homework varies depending on their course load and academic program.

Nightly reading of high interest material is especially important for young children.  A quality elementary homework programs will include 15 – 30 minutes of nightly reading.

How can I help my child with homework?

A parent’s attitude towards homework can have a positive or negative impact on how the child views and values homework. Through involvement with their child’s homework, parents have an opportunity to express an appreciation for education and the value of school success.  When parents get involved, communication between the school and family can improve. It can also speed up a child’s learning.

Parents can best help their child by doing the following:

1. Make sure your child has a quiet, well-lit place to do homework.  Avoid having your child do homework with the television on or in places with other distractions.
2. Make sure the materials your child needs, such as paper, pencils, and a dictionary, are available.Get materials for special projects in advance.
3. Help your child with time management. Establish a set time each day for doing homework.
4. Be positive about homework. Tell your child how important it is.
5. When your child asks for help, provide guidance, not answers. Too much help teaches your child that when the going gets rough, someone will do the work for him or her.
6. When the teacher asks that you play a role in homework, do it. Cooperate with the teacher to show your child that school and home are a team.
7. If homework is meant to be done by your child alone, stay away. Homework is a great way for kids to develop independent, lifelong learning skills.
8. Stay informed. Talk frequently with your child’s teacher, especially if your child is struggling.
9. Reward progress in homework. If your child has been successful in homework completion, celebrate that success with a special event to reinforce the positive effort.