All about Homework
- Kylie Larsen
- Sep 23, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 24, 2025
Homework is not just busywork; it plays a vital role in helping students learn. From a teacher's perspective, homework serves several important functions:
Reinforcement of Learning
Homework allows students to practice what they've learned in class. For example, a math assignment on multiplication gives a student an opportunity to reinforce their understanding through practice.
Research shows that students who complete homework can improve their test scores by an average of 30%.
Development of Responsibility
By completing homework, students learn to manage their time, prioritize tasks, and take ownership of their education. A student managing their schedule for multiple subjects develops life skills that benefit them later on.
Preparation for Future Lessons
Assignments can introduce new topics, giving students a head start. For example, reading about ecosystems before a biology class helps students grasp concepts when the topic is formally taught.
Family Involvement
Homework enables families to engage with their child's education. They can practice key skills, discuss current topics, and choose activities that support what they are learning at school.
According to the National Education Association, students who consistently complete their homework demonstrate higher academic performance, achieving grades up to 20% higher than their peers who do not complete assignments regularly.
Research About Homework
While homework has many benefits, the amount and type of homework can affect its effectiveness.
Studies highlight that the benefits of homework vary by age group:
For younger students, research indicates a weaker link between homework and academic success.
The National PTA recommends keeping assignments to about 10 minutes per grade level. For example, a second grader should have about 20 minutes of homework. This allows them to develop a positive homework habit without feeling overwhelmed.
As students advance to middle and high school, the link between homework and academic success becomes stronger.
According to a study by Duke University, high school students who complete homework regularly score up to 15% better on standardized tests compared to those who do not.
However, meaningful assignments that connect with students' experiences yield the best results.
Setting Up a Homework Environment for Success
Creating a productive homework environment is vital for your child’s success. Your ultimate goal is to be more productive and less stressed during homework time.
Here are some actionable tips to establish a supportive homework space:
Choose a Quiet Location
Find an area in your home free from distractions. This could be a dedicated study room or a peaceful corner in the living room. A study area can improve focus by up to 40%.
I have three children, and I find it more effective to give each their own space for homework and rotate between them. Another unexpected personal insight is that my kids actually like doing homework at a nearby park or playground. There are no complaints, everyone works at their optimal pace to finish quickly so they can return to playing, and it includes essential physical breaks that boost learning and memory.
Organize Supplies
Make sure that all school supplies—like pencils, paper, and calculators—are easy to find. This reduces interruptions during homework time.
For homework done at home, a simple caddy can store all your homework essentials and offer easy access. If you prefer the park or playground option, place a pencil pouch in the student's notebook or backpack with all your supplies.
Establish a Routine
Consistency matters. Set a specific homework time each day to help your child develop a solid routine. Homework does not have to be completed at a certain time of day; just choose what works best for your family and child's needs.
However, I suggest steering clear of anything right before bedtime!
Limit Distractions
Encourage your child to put away their phone and other distractions during homework. The others in the home (adults included) need to refrain from conversations and distracting activities. Also, no TV and only instrumental music, if any.
Research suggests that even small distractions can increase completion time by up to 50%. No one has time for that!
Promote Breaks
Brief breaks can aid in sustaining concentration. Motivate your child to take breaks to recharge. This is a crucial strategy that many families overlook because it appears counterintuitive, or the adults involved were brought up to remain seated until completion.
However, taking breaks can improve productivity by about 15%!
Consider Various Seating Preferences
Similar to adults, children have individual preferences for comfort and concentration. Some might like lying on their stomachs, others might opt to stand, and some may prefer a conventional supportive chair.
For example, my daughter performs best lying on her stomach, but my boys prefer working at a traditional chair and table setup.
When to Advocate for Your Child
Though homework has benefits, it can sometimes become too stressful for your child. If you notice homework is leading to anxiety or negatively affecting their well-being, consider stepping in. Here are some signs to watch for:
Overwhelming Stress
If your child consistently feels anxious about homework, it may signal an excessive workload.
Declining Interest in School
A sudden lack of interest in school can indicate that homework has become a burden.
Physical Symptoms
Complaints of headaches or stomachaches can be signs of stress related to homework.
Impact on Family Life
If homework conflicts with family time or causes frequent arguments, it may be time to reevaluate the situation.
If you see any of these signs, reach out to your child’s teacher or counselor. Open communication can help address concerns and find suitable solutions.
Final Thoughts
Homework is an important component of education, providing numerous benefits when approached thoughtfully. Its benefits increase with a student's age, as does the amount of time they should dedicate to it.
By understanding its purpose, creating an effective homework environment, and advocating for your child when needed, families can navigate homework challenges more successfully.
Remember, the aim is to foster a love for learning while ensuring homework remains a positive experience. With the right approach, both students and families can not only cope but truly thrive during homework time.
For more, check out my recent video on this blog post topic!
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