Alfie Kohn, author and educational leader, explains there is no scientific research that suggests that homework improves student achievement. http://www.here-now.org/shows/2006/08/20060825_2.asp So why have any home work at all? After all, there is nothing worse than getting home at 5:00 and having to make dinner, clean the house, do laundry and motivate your child to do some homework.

But that is just one side of the equation. While homework does not help improve achievement in the lower grades, what it does is help parents stay connected to their child’s education. By reviewing what they did in school, you can indicate areas of need, find out what the school is teaching and even spur a dialogue with your child.

Therefore, my philosophy on home learning is that it should never exceed more than 10-15 minutes excluding the reading portion. If you are spending a lot of time on home learning, please let me know. The main goal is for the children to get used to having home learning. Home learning should be a time that you share the day with your child.

What does it consist of?

· Reading 20 minutes a day – Enjoy a book, magazine, newspaper together.

· Math packets for students in grades 1-2.

· Studying spelling words.

On occasion there will be a major project, a science report perhaps that you and your child can work on together. Most important home learning should be a time when you connect with your child.