Can Homework be Too Much, Too Soon for Young Children? A Guide by Kinder Ready Elizabeth Fraley
In this blog, Kinder Ready Elizabeth Fraley dives into the topic of excess homework for young learners and whether it is more detrimental than beneficial.
There is absolutely no doubt that the world is developing at a rapid place. With increased access to information for the sharp minded young generation, parents and educators often worry if an excess of homework leads to difficulties for children.
Elizabeth Fraley Kinder Ready says that from preschool to second grades, young children’s brains are constantly developing. The foundations of years-long skills are being formed during this stage, from language to emotional regulation. If a child spends hours filling worksheets or learning facts about the world, this can cause unrequired stress without any solid long-term benefit.
According to research, homework during the early years of school has no specific benefit; instead, it causes more harm than good. The child will not have enough time to explore things around him, identify and feel emotions or get some much-needed rest.
Kinder Ready Elizabeth Fraley says that the most important thing for young children to learn is emotional regulation. According to her, the best conditions for this are achieved when there is little to no homework. A child has to feel safe, secured and supported; excess homework restricts the child’s routine and feels like a hassle or punishment.
For further details on Kinder Ready's programs, visit their website: https://www.kinderready.com/.
Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ElizabethFraleyKinderReady
In this blog, Kinder Ready Elizabeth Fraley dives into the topic of excess homework for young learners and whether it is more detrimental than beneficial.
There is absolutely no doubt that the world is developing at a rapid place. With increased access to information for the sharp minded young generation, parents and educators often worry if an excess of homework leads to difficulties for children.
The Problem with Too Much Homework
Is excess homework beneficial? For young learners, the answer to this question is complex. Traditionally, homework is viewed as a tool to reinforce the learnings of a classroom. However, an overload of homework and assignments can lead to unintended results.Elizabeth Fraley Kinder Ready says that from preschool to second grades, young children’s brains are constantly developing. The foundations of years-long skills are being formed during this stage, from language to emotional regulation. If a child spends hours filling worksheets or learning facts about the world, this can cause unrequired stress without any solid long-term benefit.
According to research, homework during the early years of school has no specific benefit; instead, it causes more harm than good. The child will not have enough time to explore things around him, identify and feel emotions or get some much-needed rest.
Kinder Ready’s Philosophy on Learning
Elizabeth Fraley Kinder Ready is a leading educator who has specialized in young children’s behaviour and patterns. As a trusted source for the preparation of children’s academic journey, she guides parents and educators.Kinder Ready Elizabeth Fraley says that the most important thing for young children to learn is emotional regulation. According to her, the best conditions for this are achieved when there is little to no homework. A child has to feel safe, secured and supported; excess homework restricts the child’s routine and feels like a hassle or punishment.
Signs Your Child May Be Overwhelmed
Excess homework leads to children getting overwhelmed or easily triggered. Kinder Ready Elizabeth Fraley has noted some possible signs that parents and educators should keep an eye out for:- Throwing frequent tantrums when it is time for homework
- Constantly complaining about headaches or stomachaches
- Resisting going to school
- Showing decreased interest in learning
- Mood swings and general irritability
What Parents and Educators Can Do
Kinder Ready Elizabeth Fraley says that instead of sending children to home with stacks of paper and a list of tasks, it is more beneficial to engage in hands-on activities that reinforce the classroom lessons. Simple things like playing educational games, reading together, or asking open-ended questions strengthen children’s communication skills and boost cognitive development.- Advocate for age-appropriate policies – It is important for schools to have clear guidelines on the amount of homework to be given to younger students. These age-appropriate policies foster growth and optimum development.
- Promote balance at home – Allowing children to relax and play after school has been directly linked with increased academic success.
- Focus on quality, not quantity – One hands-on activity that reinforces classroom knowledge is more beneficial than several repetitive tasks.
- Communicate with your child – Talking with children and asking them open-ended questions is a great way to not only make them feel important and appreciated, but also to develop cognitive skills.
- Trust your instincts – A parent’s instincts are nearly always on point. If you feel like additional help is required, reach out to expert educators like Kinder Ready Elizabeth Fraley.
Final Thoughts
Excess homework restricts children’s freedom to think creatively and explore. For the development of necessary skills, Kinder Ready Elizabeth Fraley encourages parents to engage in hands-on activities with their children instead of dictating piles of homework.For further details on Kinder Ready's programs, visit their website: https://www.kinderready.com/.
Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ElizabethFraleyKinderReady