What Parents Need to Know About Homework

The evidence on homework is mixed: It suggests that homework can be a useful tool for reinforcing or expanding on concepts from in-class learning. But homework isn’t as black and white as the pro-homework and no-homework camps want you to think.

Generally, homework is more beneficial to older students. Research shows that high school students get the most out of homework, followed by middle schoolers.

But homework for younger children can have some positive effects that go beyond academics. For example, some elementary educators assign homework so younger students can start practicing time management skills, building responsibility, and establishing a positive at-home learning routine. And of course, reading at home and playing math games might be considered “homework,” but those are also just great activities for every family, whether they’re assigned by school or not.

Time matters. More isn’t always better. While there’s no precise “right” amount of homework, roughly 10 minutes per year in school (starting in first grade) is a helpful guide. So, your first grader might spend 10 minutes on homework per night, while 1.5–2.5 hours is considered a good amount for high schoolers. If your child is spending longer than that on their assignments, ask yourself (and them) what might be going on: Are they distracted while they’re working? Are they struggling with skills that might need additional support (for example, reading slowly or missing foundational math skills)? If your child is consistently spending longer on homework than you would expect for their grade level, check in with their teacher. (Or, for older students, encourage them to talk to their teacher directly!)

Interactive homework assignments can prove especially engaging—but homework should be done by kids, not parents. There isn’t a lot of research on which types of homework assignments are “best,” but some educators make the case that assignments that ask students to collaborate, whether with a peer or an adult, tend to be more engaging for students. That said, even when the assignment involves collaboration, parents should let their kids do the hard work. After all, tackling challenging assignments, in and out of the classroom, is how they learn. (Parents can help by setting up distraction-free zones for homework completion. Here are some more tips for taking the hassle out of homework.)

Homework shouldn’t interfere with sleep, play, and family time. Like adults when we’re off work, kids need time outside of school to rest, recharge, move their bodies, and spend time with family and friends. Younger children need plenty of time for open-ended play, too. Homework can be one part of a solid after-school routine, but if it’s coming at the expense of these other important activities, or causing significant anxiety and stress for your family, it’s time to check in with your child’s teacher.