Too Much Homework? Really?

The heated debate over too much homework has been going on for years, and I do believe it’s an issue that needs to be addressed. There should be districtwide policies in place, and there should be some cohesiveness so students are not having all their quizzes and test on Fridays, which seems to be an unfortunate trend. What amazes me is the complete focus on too many hours of homework when kids are spending hours upon hours each day at practices. When did three to four hours of soccer, or crew, or football become normal? And why do so few parents question it? 

Now, don’t get me wrong, I have made it very clear that I support kids taking part in team sports and extracurricular activities. I am in no way saying kids should dump their activities and have their noses in textbooks or pressed to the computer screen 24/7. Studies show that students who participate in extracurricular activities feel a positive connection to their school and are more motivated to achieve. However, this does not mean they should do everything they have a passing interest in. When they are members of the wrestling team, the Mathletes, and the Future Unemployed Actors of America, they will be staying up half the night to get their homework done. Learning to prioritize and make difficult choices is a life skill, so have them choose what they would most like to do and don’t feel guilty about it. They’ll survive if they don’t get to be in the chorus of Pippin, I promise.

Some teachers do assign too much homework and kids are feeling stressed. I saw twice, which makes me an expert in this. I just don’t think it is as pervasive as we are led to believe. For every student I see who is overworked and exhausted, I have two who are unmotivated and doing very little. Also, for the most part parents want their kids to have homework. When a teacher does not load up on homework that teacher is often viewed as too easy or lazy, so basically, they can’t win.

With the ridiculous competition to get into college, kids definitely feel the pressure to take advanced classes. However, if your kid is taking five A.P. classes, he or she is going to have a ton of homework. If this is an issue, then take a reality check. Is it worth it? If your child doesn’t take all those advanced classes will he or she still get into a good school where he or she will be happy? Remember, it’s not about the “best” school; it’s about finding the best fit for your child.

Do you have a sixth-grade student?  If so, then please attend my seminar, Terrific Transitions, on Oct. 3 at 7:30 pm at Bristow Middle School. For further infortmation, please email me.

Sue Schaefer is a student advocate, academic coach, and certified teacher. We encourage you to visit her website: Academic Coaching Associates. You may email Sue at susan.schaefer@academiccoachingct.com.