Dr. Meade speaks on the subject of homework. Depending on the developmental level of the child and the length of the school day, students should receive approximately ten minutes of homework per grade level without becoming too overwhelming. If students have so much homework they are losing sleep, it is too much for them. As parents, it is important to dedicate a space with little distractions and provide them with enough free time as well.
Studies show that students now, as compared to in the past, are receiving three times more homework than before. This is much more than experts recommend. As the amount of homework increases, so does stress for students and parents. Instead, they approve of the ten minute rule of ten minutes of homework per grade level. They also suggest that Kindergarteners should not receive homework at all. But in actuality, they are receiving up to 25 minutes of homework on average!
So that students do not become stressed, and in order for homework not to be dreaded by students, it helps to give them a choice between at least two assignments on the same topic. This helps them to feel more confident and understand the work better. Along with this, teachers must ensure they are listening to the feedback of their kids. If they voice their concerns about the amount of homework given each night, listen.
While some people believe that homework prepares students for work and the real world, others feel as though it is just too much and ruins students' love of learning, and it may not even be worth it. The US is the most homework intensive country in the world for middle schoolers but standardized testing scores does not reflect this.
Too much homework is stressful for students, but it takes a toll on parents as well--especially when their children are smaller and need assistance. It is a struggle between wanting to encourage their children to complete their work and do what they are assigned, and allowing them to skip the homework altogether and just be a kid! If children are missing out on other activities, exercise, and playtime--it is too much.