How much homework is enough for children?

The amount of time spent on homework has increased for pupils like Oliver

January 29, 1999
Web posted at: 2:09 p.m. EST (1909 GMT)

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- The average time that elementary school students spend on homework has nearly tripled over a 16-year period, according to a recent study by the University of Michigan.

In 1981, students ages 6 to 8 spent an average of 44 minutes a week on homework, but by 1997 that figure had risen to more than two hours a week, the study found.

In addition to a heavier load of homework, more young pupils these days are taking additional courses, such as art enrichment or special math tutoring, making their schedules increasingly structured and stressful.

"There is this sort of competition. The mothers complain about it, but they also are pleased that their children are being pushed," said Mary Carpenter, the mother of Oliver, an elementary school student.

"I just feel that childhood is short and they should have as much time as possible to experiment. Sometimes I'm sorry (Oliver) doesn't have more chance to just play," Carpenter said.

Belber limits the amount of homework he assigns his students

Mothers aren't the only ones starting to question the trend.

Education expert Dr. Henry Cooper said more homework can help improve test scores -- but only in the upper grades.

Cooper advised parents to watch their younger children for signs of fatigue and get feedback from them on how they feel about their schoolwork. If they complain of no longer liking a subject because the work is too difficult or tedious, it may mean they are being pushed too hard, Cooper said.

Third-grade teacher Anthony Belber said he purposely limits the amount of homework he gives his students and tries to vary assignments, mixing practice drills with long-term projects that encourage forward planning and parental involvement.

"You can't scare them off from school and you can't overwhelm them and turn them off to learning," Belber warned.