I just did a really hard thing....

[gypsydoodlebug]

As mommies with older kids, do you think some schools have gotten out of hand with the homework assignments? I have an almost three-year-old and I just wondered.

One lady in my office said her 10-year-old has 2-3 hours of homework a night. I can't imagine being in elementary school and having that much work to do. Kids have a lot of pressures these days (some from parents who want cheerleaders, gymnasts, black belts and future Heisman trophy winners) eh? How do you guys fit it all in?

BTW: I really like the half-hour manditory time frame...I think that's a really great idea. PM me in about three years and remind me about that!

 

[mamacatnv]

I agree you did the right thing. Next time around she will remember that you didn't cave in and maybe will plan a little better.

You did the right thing.

In our house, from kindergarten on, we told our boys that their homework was their responsibility. It's the only one they really have (other than chores). I always ask if their homework is finished, but I do not check. If they have questions, need/want help studying, I'm here. We also make them understand that the grade they receive on their report card is NOT the grade the "teacher gave them", rather it's the grade they EARNED.

My job as a parent, hard as it is, is to raise responsible adults. There are consequences to everything, and as long as it is not physically/emotionally harmful, I let them happen. It hurts, it's hard, but it's definitely a learning opportunity.

This concept is something I wholeheartedly agree with. We didn't really enforce the homework review until 3rd grade with DS. Now with DD in 1st grade, I always ask if it is done and I also don't check it unless she asks me too or needs help.

My DS now in high school has so many friends whose parents are still checking and doing their work or the kids are floundering since the parents did so much of it in the earlier years that they don't know how to budget their time and get it done themselves. There are moms that still show up and help them organize their lockers. I know all of us parent different and let go of different things at different times but I think if we don't hold them accountable then we are doing them a big disservice.imho