back to school
the question of homework What it’s for and how to help By Gwen Randall-Young, R. Psych. As the return to school quickly approaches, you may be faced with how to handle your child and their homework. There are strong arguments both for and against homework. Research has shown that, in the very early years, homework has little effect on academic performance. For a young child, after close to six hours spent at school, I am of the view that they need to be discovering the world instead of doing homework: bike riding, reading books, interacting with friends and family. These activities build the skills that are not learned while sitting at a desk. In addition, healthy levels of physical activity can help boost your child’s cognitive function. However, reading to, or with, your young one has tremendous benefits. But sadly, for many, engaging in screen time has replaced time spent reading books. Reading to your child from infancy to the beginning of school is likely a better predictor of school success. Reading to your child also provides some bonding and closeness with you.
has been made that 10 minutes of homework per grade level is about right - 20 minutes of homework in Grade 2, and so on. Other advantages of homework throughout the grades can include improving performance, helping to reinforce learning, and developing good study habits
“Homework can become a battle when your child feels pressure and anger, and consequently resists any attempts to be forced into doing the work.”
Advantages of homework Small amounts of homework activities can help reinforce what is being taught in school. The suggestion
and life skills. Homework can allow you to be involved in your child’s learning. Homework can benefit those who are struggling to keep up in school. Homework is also a natural consequence of fooling around in school and having to bring work home for completion. Disadvantages of homework Homework can cause your child unnecessary stress. Little ones are tired at the end of the school day (think about how you feel when you have to bring your work home). Homework stress can cause your student to feel anxious, unmotivated, and can even lower self-esteem. This can lead to sleep deprivation and behavioral changes in your child, as well as thinking of school in a negative way. Homework can take away from your child’s leisure time. Kids need healthy physical activity. Screen time contributes to a sedentary lifestyle. However, to be fair, in limited amounts, screen time can be a fun activity and can take your student’s mind away from school stresses. Too much homework can be harmful, and you are not in charge of how much homework a teacher assigns your child. In junior high and high school, students may have The Question of Homework – Continued on page 35
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Inglewood Bird Sanctuary | Southland Leisure Centre | Village Square Leisure Centre Back to School 2021 • calgaryschild.com • 21
