why does homework make students hate school

Is it time to get rid of homework? Mental health experts weigh in.

It's no secret that kids hate homework. And as students grapple with an ongoing pandemic that has had a wide range of mental health impacts, is it time schools start listening to their pleas about workloads?

Some teachers are turning to social media to take a stand against homework. 

Tiktok user @misguided.teacher says he doesn't assign it because the "whole premise of homework is flawed."

For starters, he says, he can't grade work on "even playing fields" when students' home environments can be vastly different.

"Even students who go home to a peaceful house, do they really want to spend their time on busy work? Because typically that's what a lot of homework is, it's busy work," he says in the video that has garnered 1.6 million likes. "You only get one year to be 7, you only got one year to be 10, you only get one year to be 16, 18."

Mental health experts agree heavy workloads have the potential do more harm than good for students, especially when taking into account the impacts of the pandemic. But they also say the answer may not be to eliminate homework altogether.

Emmy Kang, mental health counselor at Humantold , says studies have shown heavy workloads can be "detrimental" for students and cause a "big impact on their mental, physical and emotional health."

"More than half of students say that homework is their primary source of stress, and we know what stress can do on our bodies," she says, adding that staying up late to finish assignments also leads to disrupted sleep and exhaustion.

Cynthia Catchings, a licensed clinical social worker and therapist at Talkspace , says heavy workloads can also cause serious mental health problems in the long run, like anxiety and depression. 

And for all the distress homework  can cause, it's not as useful as many may think, says Dr. Nicholas Kardaras, a psychologist and CEO of Omega Recovery treatment center.

"The research shows that there's really limited benefit of homework for elementary age students, that really the school work should be contained in the classroom," he says.

For older students, Kang says, homework benefits plateau at about two hours per night. 

"Most students, especially at these high achieving schools, they're doing a minimum of three hours, and it's taking away time from their friends, from their families, their extracurricular activities. And these are all very important things for a person's mental and emotional health."

Catchings, who also taught third to 12th graders for 12 years, says she's seen the positive effects of a no-homework policy while working with students abroad.

"Not having homework was something that I always admired from the French students (and) the French schools, because that was helping the students to really have the time off and really disconnect from school," she says.

The answer may not be to eliminate homework completely but to be more mindful of the type of work students take home, suggests Kang, who was a high school teacher for 10 years.

"I don't think (we) should scrap homework; I think we should scrap meaningless, purposeless busy work-type homework. That's something that needs to be scrapped entirely," she says, encouraging teachers to be thoughtful and consider the amount of time it would take for students to complete assignments.

The pandemic made the conversation around homework more crucial 

Mindfulness surrounding homework is especially important in the context of the past two years. Many students will be struggling with mental health issues that were brought on or worsened by the pandemic , making heavy workloads even harder to balance.

"COVID was just a disaster in terms of the lack of structure. Everything just deteriorated," Kardaras says, pointing to an increase in cognitive issues and decrease in attention spans among students. "School acts as an anchor for a lot of children, as a stabilizing force, and that disappeared."

But even if students transition back to the structure of in-person classes, Kardaras suspects students may still struggle after two school years of shifted schedules and disrupted sleeping habits.

"We've seen adults struggling to go back to in-person work environments from remote work environments. That effect is amplified with children because children have less resources to be able to cope with those transitions than adults do," he explains.

'Get organized' ahead of back-to-school

In order to make the transition back to in-person school easier, Kang encourages students to "get good sleep, exercise regularly (and) eat a healthy diet."

To help manage workloads, she suggests students "get organized."

"There's so much mental clutter up there when you're disorganized. ... Sitting down and planning out their study schedules can really help manage their time," she says.

Breaking up assignments can also make things easier to tackle.

"I know that heavy workloads can be stressful, but if you sit down and you break down that studying into smaller chunks, they're much more manageable."

If workloads are still too much, Kang encourages students to advocate for themselves.

"They should tell their teachers when a homework assignment just took too much time or if it was too difficult for them to do on their own," she says. "It's good to speak up and ask those questions. Respectfully, of course, because these are your teachers. But still, I think sometimes teachers themselves need this feedback from their students."

More: Some teachers let their students sleep in class. Here's what mental health experts say.

More: Some parents are slipping young kids in for the COVID-19 vaccine, but doctors discourage the move as 'risky'

Home » Tips for Teachers » 7 Research-Based Reasons Why Students Should Not Have Homework: Academic Insights, Opposing Perspectives & Alternatives

7 Research-Based Reasons Why Students Should Not Have Homework: Academic Insights, Opposing Perspectives & Alternatives

In recent years, the question of why students should not have homework has become a topic of intense debate among educators, parents, and students themselves. This discussion stems from a growing body of research that challenges the traditional view of homework as an essential component of academic success. The notion that homework is an integral part of learning is being reevaluated in light of new findings about its effectiveness and impact on students’ overall well-being.

The push against homework is not just about the hours spent on completing assignments; it’s about rethinking the role of education in fostering the well-rounded development of young individuals. Critics argue that homework, particularly in excessive amounts, can lead to negative outcomes such as stress, burnout, and a diminished love for learning. Moreover, it often disproportionately affects students from disadvantaged backgrounds, exacerbating educational inequities. The debate also highlights the importance of allowing children to have enough free time for play, exploration, and family interaction, which are crucial for their social and emotional development.

Checking 13yo’s math homework & I have just one question. I can catch mistakes & help her correct. But what do kids do when their parent isn’t an Algebra teacher? Answer: They get frustrated. Quit. Get a bad grade. Think they aren’t good at math. How is homework fair??? — Jay Wamsted (@JayWamsted) March 24, 2022

As we delve into this discussion, we explore various facets of why reducing or even eliminating homework could be beneficial. We consider the research, weigh the pros and cons, and examine alternative approaches to traditional homework that can enhance learning without overburdening students.

Once you’ve finished this article, you’ll know:

• Insights from Teachers and Education Industry Experts →
• 7 Reasons Why Students Should Not Have Homework →
• Opposing Views on Homework Practices →
• Exploring Alternatives to Homework →

Insights from Teachers and Education Industry Experts: Diverse Perspectives on Homework

In the ongoing conversation about the role and impact of homework in education, the perspectives of those directly involved in the teaching process are invaluable. Teachers and education industry experts bring a wealth of experience and insights from the front lines of learning. Their viewpoints, shaped by years of interaction with students and a deep understanding of educational methodologies, offer a critical lens through which we can evaluate the effectiveness and necessity of homework in our current educational paradigm.

Check out this video featuring Courtney White, a high school language arts teacher who gained widespread attention for her explanation of why she chooses not to assign homework.

Here are the insights and opinions from various experts in the educational field on this topic:

“I teach 1st grade. I had parents ask for homework. I explained that I don’t give homework. Home time is family time. Time to play, cook, explore and spend time together. I do send books home, but there is no requirement or checklist for reading them. Read them, enjoy them, and return them when your child is ready for more. I explained that as a parent myself, I know they are busy—and what a waste of energy it is to sit and force their kids to do work at home—when they could use that time to form relationships and build a loving home. Something kids need more than a few math problems a week.” — Colleen S. , 1st grade teacher

“The lasting educational value of homework at that age is not proven. A kid says the times tables [at school] because he studied the times tables last night. But over a long period of time, a kid who is drilled on the times tables at school, rather than as homework, will also memorize their times tables. We are worried about young children and their social emotional learning. And that has to do with physical activity, it has to do with playing with peers, it has to do with family time. All of those are very important and can be removed by too much homework.” — David Bloomfield , education professor at Brooklyn College and the City University of New York graduate center

“Homework in primary school has an effect of around zero. In high school it’s larger. (…) Which is why we need to get it right. Not why we need to get rid of it. It’s one of those lower hanging fruit that we should be looking in our primary schools to say, ‘Is it really making a difference?’” — John Hattie , professor

”Many kids are working as many hours as their overscheduled parents and it is taking a toll – psychologically and in many other ways too. We see kids getting up hours before school starts just to get their homework done from the night before… While homework may give kids one more responsibility, it ignores the fact that kids do not need to grow up and become adults at ages 10 or 12. With schools cutting recess time or eliminating playgrounds, kids absorb every single stress there is, only on an even higher level. Their brains and bodies need time to be curious, have fun, be creative and just be a kid.” — Pat Wayman, teacher and CEO of HowtoLearn.com

7 Reasons Why Students Should Not Have Homework

Let’s delve into the reasons against assigning homework to students. Examining these arguments offers important perspectives on the wider educational and developmental consequences of homework practices.

1. Elevated Stress and Health Consequences

The ongoing debate about homework often focuses on its educational value, but a vital aspect that cannot be overlooked is the significant stress and health consequences it brings to students. In the context of American life, where approximately 70% of people report moderate or extreme stress due to various factors like mass shootings, healthcare affordability, discrimination, racism, sexual harassment, climate change, presidential elections, and the need to stay informed, the additional burden of homework further exacerbates this stress, particularly among students.

Key findings and statistics reveal a worrying trend:

• Overwhelming Student Stress: A staggering 72% of students report being often or always stressed over schoolwork, with a concerning 82% experiencing physical symptoms due to this stress.
• Serious Health Issues: Symptoms linked to homework stress include sleep deprivation, headaches, exhaustion, weight loss, and stomach problems.
• Sleep Deprivation: Despite the National Sleep Foundation recommending 8.5 to 9.25 hours of sleep for healthy adolescent development, students average just 6.80 hours of sleep on school nights. About 68% of students stated that schoolwork often or always prevented them from getting enough sleep, which is critical for their physical and mental health.
• Turning to Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms: Alarmingly, the pressure from excessive homework has led some students to turn to alcohol and drugs as a way to cope with stress.

This data paints a concerning picture. Students, already navigating a world filled with various stressors, find themselves further burdened by homework demands. The direct correlation between excessive homework and health issues indicates a need for reevaluation. The goal should be to ensure that homework if assigned, adds value to students’ learning experiences without compromising their health and well-being.

By addressing the issue of homework-related stress and health consequences, we can take a significant step toward creating a more nurturing and effective educational environment. This environment would not only prioritize academic achievement but also the overall well-being and happiness of students, preparing them for a balanced and healthy life both inside and outside the classroom.

2. Inequitable Impact and Socioeconomic Disparities

In the discourse surrounding educational equity, homework emerges as a factor exacerbating socioeconomic disparities, particularly affecting students from lower-income families and those with less supportive home environments. While homework is often justified as a means to raise academic standards and promote equity, its real-world impact tells a different story.

The inequitable burden of homework becomes starkly evident when considering the resources required to complete it, especially in the digital age. Homework today often necessitates a computer and internet access – resources not readily available to all students. This digital divide significantly disadvantages students from lower-income backgrounds, deepening the chasm between them and their more affluent peers.

Key points highlighting the disparities:

• Digital Inequity: Many students lack access to necessary technology for homework, with low-income families disproportionately affected.
• Impact of COVID-19: The pandemic exacerbated these disparities as education shifted online, revealing the extent of the digital divide.
• Educational Outcomes Tied to Income: A critical indicator of college success is linked more to family income levels than to rigorous academic preparation. Research indicates that while 77% of students from high-income families graduate from highly competitive colleges, only 9% from low-income families achieve the same . This disparity suggests that the pressure of heavy homework loads, rather than leveling the playing field, may actually hinder the chances of success for less affluent students.

Moreover, the approach to homework varies significantly across different types of schools. While some rigorous private and preparatory schools in both marginalized and affluent communities assign extreme levels of homework, many progressive schools focusing on holistic learning and self-actualization opt for no homework, yet achieve similar levels of college and career success. This contrast raises questions about the efficacy and necessity of heavy homework loads in achieving educational outcomes.

The issue of homework and its inequitable impact is not just an academic concern; it is a reflection of broader societal inequalities. By continuing practices that disproportionately burden students from less privileged backgrounds, the educational system inadvertently perpetuates the very disparities it seeks to overcome.

3. Negative Impact on Family Dynamics

Homework, a staple of the educational system, is often perceived as a necessary tool for academic reinforcement. However, its impact extends beyond the realm of academics, significantly affecting family dynamics. The negative repercussions of homework on the home environment have become increasingly evident, revealing a troubling pattern that can lead to conflict, mental health issues, and domestic friction.

A study conducted in 2015 involving 1,100 parents sheds light on the strain homework places on family relationships. The findings are telling:

• Increased Likelihood of Conflicts: Families where parents did not have a college degree were 200% more likely to experience fights over homework.
• Misinterpretations and Misunderstandings: Parents often misinterpret their children’s difficulties with homework as a lack of attention in school, leading to feelings of frustration and mistrust on both sides.
• Discriminatory Impact: The research concluded that the current approach to homework disproportionately affects children whose parents have lower educational backgrounds, speak English as a second language, or belong to lower-income groups.

The issue is not confined to specific demographics but is a widespread concern. Samantha Hulsman, a teacher featured in Education Week Teacher , shared her personal experience with the toll that homework can take on family time. She observed that a seemingly simple 30-minute assignment could escalate into a three-hour ordeal, causing stress and strife between parents and children. Hulsman’s insights challenge the traditional mindset about homework, highlighting a shift towards the need for skills such as collaboration and problem-solving over rote memorization of facts.

The need of the hour is to reassess the role and amount of homework assigned to students. It’s imperative to find a balance that facilitates learning and growth without compromising the well-being of the family unit. Such a reassessment would not only aid in reducing domestic conflicts but also contribute to a more supportive and nurturing environment for children’s overall development.

4. Consumption of Free Time

In recent years, a growing chorus of voices has raised concerns about the excessive burden of homework on students, emphasizing how it consumes their free time and impedes their overall well-being. The issue is not just the quantity of homework, but its encroachment on time that could be used for personal growth, relaxation, and family bonding.

Authors Sara Bennett and Nancy Kalish , in their book “The Case Against Homework,” offer an insightful window into the lives of families grappling with the demands of excessive homework. They share stories from numerous interviews conducted in the mid-2000s, highlighting the universal struggle faced by families across different demographics. A poignant account from a parent in Menlo Park, California, describes nightly sessions extending until 11 p.m., filled with stress and frustration, leading to a soured attitude towards school in both the child and the parent. This narrative is not isolated, as about one-third of the families interviewed expressed feeling crushed by the overwhelming workload.

Key points of concern:

• Excessive Time Commitment: Students, on average, spend over 6 hours in school each day, and homework adds significantly to this time, leaving little room for other activities.
• Impact on Extracurricular Activities: Homework infringes upon time for sports, music, art, and other enriching experiences, which are as crucial as academic courses.
• Stifling Creativity and Self-Discovery: The constant pressure of homework limits opportunities for students to explore their interests and learn new skills independently.

The National Education Association (NEA) and the National PTA (NPTA) recommend a “10 minutes of homework per grade level” standard, suggesting a more balanced approach. However, the reality often far exceeds this guideline, particularly for older students. The impact of this overreach is profound, affecting not just academic performance but also students’ attitudes toward school, their self-confidence, social skills, and overall quality of life.

Furthermore, the intense homework routine’s effectiveness is doubtful, as it can overwhelm students and detract from the joy of learning. Effective learning builds on prior knowledge in an engaging way, but excessive homework in a home setting may be irrelevant and uninteresting. The key challenge is balancing homework to enhance learning without overburdening students, allowing time for holistic growth and activities beyond academics. It’s crucial to reassess homework policies to support well-rounded development.

5. Challenges for Students with Learning Disabilities

Homework, a standard educational tool, poses unique challenges for students with learning disabilities, often leading to a frustrating and disheartening experience. These challenges go beyond the typical struggles faced by most students and can significantly impede their educational progress and emotional well-being.

Child psychologist Kenneth Barish’s insights in Psychology Today shed light on the complex relationship between homework and students with learning disabilities:

• Homework as a Painful Endeavor: For students with learning disabilities, completing homework can be likened to “running with a sprained ankle.” It’s a task that, while doable, is fraught with difficulty and discomfort.
• Misconceptions about Laziness: Often, children who struggle with homework are perceived as lazy. However, Barish emphasizes that these students are more likely to be frustrated, discouraged, or anxious rather than unmotivated.
• Limited Improvement in School Performance: The battles over homework rarely translate into significant improvement in school for these children, challenging the conventional notion of homework as universally beneficial.

These points highlight the need for a tailored approach to homework for students with learning disabilities. It’s crucial to recognize that the traditional homework model may not be the most effective or appropriate method for facilitating their learning. Instead, alternative strategies that accommodate their unique needs and learning styles should be considered.

In conclusion, the conventional homework paradigm needs reevaluation, particularly concerning students with learning disabilities. By understanding and addressing their unique challenges, educators can create a more inclusive and supportive educational environment. This approach not only aids in their academic growth but also nurtures their confidence and overall development, ensuring that they receive an equitable and empathetic educational experience.

6. Critique of Underlying Assumptions about Learning

The longstanding belief in the educational sphere that more homework automatically translates to more learning is increasingly being challenged. Critics argue that this assumption is not only flawed but also unsupported by solid evidence, questioning the efficacy of homework as an effective learning tool.

Alfie Kohn , a prominent critic of homework, aptly compares students to vending machines in this context, suggesting that the expectation of inserting an assignment and automatically getting out of learning is misguided. Kohn goes further, labeling homework as the “greatest single extinguisher of children’s curiosity.” This critique highlights a fundamental issue: the potential of homework to stifle the natural inquisitiveness and love for learning in children.

The lack of concrete evidence supporting the effectiveness of homework is evident in various studies:

• Marginal Effectiveness of Homework: A study involving 28,051 high school seniors found that the effectiveness of homework was marginal, and in some cases, it was counterproductive, leading to more academic problems than solutions.
• No Correlation with Academic Achievement: Research in “ National Differences, Global Similarities ” showed no correlation between homework and academic achievement in elementary students, and any positive correlation in middle or high school diminished with increasing homework loads.
• Increased Academic Pressure: The Teachers College Record published findings that homework adds to academic pressure and societal stress, exacerbating performance gaps between students from different socioeconomic backgrounds.

These findings bring to light several critical points:

• Quality Over Quantity: According to a recent article in Monitor on Psychology , experts concur that the quality of homework assignments, along with the quality of instruction, student motivation, and inherent ability, is more crucial for academic success than the quantity of homework.
• Counterproductive Nature of Excessive Homework: Excessive homework can lead to more academic challenges, particularly for students already facing pressures from other aspects of their lives.
• Societal Stress and Performance Gaps: Homework can intensify societal stress and widen the academic performance divide.

The emerging consensus from these studies suggests that the traditional approach to homework needs rethinking. Rather than focusing on the quantity of assignments, educators should consider the quality and relevance of homework, ensuring it truly contributes to learning and development. This reassessment is crucial for fostering an educational environment that nurtures curiosity and a love for learning, rather than extinguishing it.

7. Issues with Homework Enforcement, Reliability, and Temptation to Cheat

In the academic realm, the enforcement of homework is a subject of ongoing debate, primarily due to its implications on student integrity and the true value of assignments. The challenges associated with homework enforcement often lead to unintended yet significant issues, such as cheating, copying, and a general undermining of educational values.

Key points highlighting enforcement challenges:

• Difficulty in Enforcing Completion: Ensuring that students complete their homework can be a complex task, and not completing homework does not always correlate with poor grades.
• Reliability of Homework Practice: The reliability of homework as a practice tool is undermined when students, either out of desperation or lack of understanding, choose shortcuts over genuine learning. This approach can lead to the opposite of the intended effect, especially when assignments are not well-aligned with the students’ learning levels or interests.
• Temptation to Cheat: The issue of cheating is particularly troubling. According to a report by The Chronicle of Higher Education , under the pressure of at-home assignments, many students turn to copying others’ work, plagiarizing, or using creative technological “hacks.” This tendency not only questions the integrity of the learning process but also reflects the extreme stress that homework can induce.
• Parental Involvement in Completion: As noted in The American Journal of Family Therapy , this raises concerns about the authenticity of the work submitted. When parents complete assignments for their children, it not only deprives the students of the opportunity to learn but also distorts the purpose of homework as a learning aid.

In conclusion, the challenges of homework enforcement present a complex problem that requires careful consideration. The focus should shift towards creating meaningful, manageable, and quality-driven assignments that encourage genuine learning and integrity, rather than overwhelming students and prompting counterproductive behaviors.

Addressing Opposing Views on Homework Practices

While opinions on homework policies are diverse, understanding different viewpoints is crucial. In the following sections, we will examine common arguments supporting homework assignments, along with counterarguments that offer alternative perspectives on this educational practice.

1. Improvement of Academic Performance

Homework is commonly perceived as a means to enhance academic performance, with the belief that it directly contributes to better grades and test scores. This view posits that through homework, students reinforce what they learn in class, leading to improved understanding and retention, which ultimately translates into higher academic achievement.

However, the question of why students should not have homework becomes pertinent when considering the complex relationship between homework and academic performance. Studies have indicated that excessive homework doesn’t necessarily equate to higher grades or test scores. Instead, too much homework can backfire, leading to stress and fatigue that adversely affect a student’s performance. Reuters highlights an intriguing correlation suggesting that physical activity may be more conducive to academic success than additional homework, underscoring the importance of a holistic approach to education that prioritizes both physical and mental well-being for enhanced academic outcomes.

2. Reinforcement of Learning

Homework is traditionally viewed as a tool to reinforce classroom learning, enabling students to practice and retain material. However, research suggests its effectiveness is ambiguous. In instances where homework is well-aligned with students’ abilities and classroom teachings, it can indeed be beneficial. Particularly for younger students , excessive homework can cause burnout and a loss of interest in learning, counteracting its intended purpose.

Furthermore, when homework surpasses a student’s capability, it may induce frustration and confusion rather than aid in learning. This challenges the notion that more homework invariably leads to better understanding and retention of educational content.

3. Development of Time Management Skills

Homework is often considered a crucial tool in helping students develop important life skills such as time management and organization. The idea is that by regularly completing assignments, students learn to allocate their time efficiently and organize their tasks effectively, skills that are invaluable in both academic and personal life.

However, the impact of homework on developing these skills is not always positive. For younger students, especially, an overwhelming amount of homework can be more of a hindrance than a help. Instead of fostering time management and organizational skills, an excessive workload often leads to stress and anxiety . These negative effects can impede the learning process and make it difficult for students to manage their time and tasks effectively, contradicting the original purpose of homework.

4. Preparation for Future Academic Challenges

Homework is often touted as a preparatory tool for future academic challenges that students will encounter in higher education and their professional lives. The argument is that by tackling homework, students build a foundation of knowledge and skills necessary for success in more advanced studies and in the workforce, fostering a sense of readiness and confidence.

Contrarily, an excessive homework load, especially from a young age, can have the opposite effect . It can instill a negative attitude towards education, dampening students’ enthusiasm and willingness to embrace future academic challenges. Overburdening students with homework risks disengagement and loss of interest, thereby defeating the purpose of preparing them for future challenges. Striking a balance in the amount and complexity of homework is crucial to maintaining student engagement and fostering a positive attitude towards ongoing learning.

5. Parental Involvement in Education

Homework often acts as a vital link connecting parents to their child’s educational journey, offering insights into the school’s curriculum and their child’s learning process. This involvement is key in fostering a supportive home environment and encouraging a collaborative relationship between parents and the school. When parents understand and engage with what their children are learning, it can significantly enhance the educational experience for the child.

However, the line between involvement and over-involvement is thin. When parents excessively intervene by completing their child’s homework,  it can have adverse effects . Such actions not only diminish the educational value of homework but also rob children of the opportunity to develop problem-solving skills and independence. This over-involvement, coupled with disparities in parental ability to assist due to variations in time, knowledge, or resources, may lead to unequal educational outcomes, underlining the importance of a balanced approach to parental participation in homework.

Exploring Alternatives to Homework and Finding a Middle Ground

In the ongoing debate about the role of homework in education, it’s essential to consider viable alternatives and strategies to minimize its burden. While completely eliminating homework may not be feasible for all educators, there are several effective methods to reduce its impact and offer more engaging, student-friendly approaches to learning.

Alternatives to Traditional Homework

• Project-Based Learning: This method focuses on hands-on, long-term projects where students explore real-world problems. It encourages creativity, critical thinking, and collaborative skills, offering a more engaging and practical learning experience than traditional homework. For creative ideas on school projects, especially related to the solar system, be sure to explore our dedicated article on solar system projects .
• Flipped Classrooms: Here, students are introduced to new content through videos or reading materials at home and then use class time for interactive activities. This approach allows for more personalized and active learning during school hours.
• Reading for Pleasure: Encouraging students to read books of their choice can foster a love for reading and improve literacy skills without the pressure of traditional homework assignments. This approach is exemplified by Marion County, Florida , where public schools implemented a no-homework policy for elementary students. Instead, they are encouraged to read nightly for 20 minutes . Superintendent Heidi Maier’s decision was influenced by research showing that while homework offers minimal benefit to young students, regular reading significantly boosts their learning. For book recommendations tailored to middle school students, take a look at our specially curated article .

Ideas for Minimizing Homework

• Limiting Homework Quantity: Adhering to guidelines like the “ 10-minute rule ” (10 minutes of homework per grade level per night) can help ensure that homework does not become overwhelming.
• Quality Over Quantity: Focus on assigning meaningful homework that is directly relevant to what is being taught in class, ensuring it adds value to students’ learning.
• Homework Menus: Offering students a choice of assignments can cater to diverse learning styles and interests, making homework more engaging and personalized.
• Integrating Technology: Utilizing educational apps and online platforms can make homework more interactive and enjoyable, while also providing immediate feedback to students. To gain deeper insights into the role of technology in learning environments, explore our articles discussing the benefits of incorporating technology in classrooms and a comprehensive list of educational VR apps . These resources will provide you with valuable information on how technology can enhance the educational experience.

For teachers who are not ready to fully eliminate homework, these strategies offer a compromise, ensuring that homework supports rather than hinders student learning. By focusing on quality, relevance, and student engagement, educators can transform homework from a chore into a meaningful component of education that genuinely contributes to students’ academic growth and personal development. In this way, we can move towards a more balanced and student-centric approach to learning, both in and out of the classroom.

Useful Resources

• Is homework a good idea or not? by BBC
• The Great Homework Debate: What’s Getting Lost in the Hype
• Alternative Homework Ideas

The evidence and arguments presented in the discussion of why students should not have homework call for a significant shift in homework practices. It’s time for educators and policymakers to rethink and reformulate homework strategies, focusing on enhancing the quality, relevance, and balance of assignments. By doing so, we can create a more equitable, effective, and student-friendly educational environment that fosters learning, well-being, and holistic development.

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• “A multi-method exploratory study of stress, coping, and substance use among high school youth in private schools”, Frontiers
• “The Digital Revolution is Leaving Poorer Kids Behind”, Statista
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• “COVID-19 exposed the digital divide. Here’s how we can close it”, World Economic Forum
• “PBS NewsHour: Biggest Predictor of College Success is Family Income”, America’s Promise Alliance
• “Homework and Family Stress: With Consideration of Parents’ Self Confidence, Educational Level, and Cultural Background”, Taylor & Francis Online
• “What Do You Mean My Kid Doesn’t Have Homework?”, EducationWeek
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• “When school goes home: Some problems in the organization of homework”, APA PsycNet
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• “Kids who get moving may also get better grades”, Reuters
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• “Encouraging Students to Read: Tips for High School Teachers”, wgu.edu
• Recent Posts

Simona Johnes is the visionary being the creation of our project. Johnes spent much of her career in the classroom working with students. And, after many years in the classroom, Johnes became a principal.

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10 Reasons Why Students Hate Homework

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It’s no secret that students often hate homework. This hatred makes students benefit less from homework. But why do students hate homework?

There are a variety of reasons why students hate homework. First, completing assignments can often be a tedious and time-consuming process. Second, many students feel that they do not have enough time to complete their homework during the school day. Third, many students believe that their teachers assign too much homework. Fourth, some students find it difficult to focus on their homework when they are also trying to relax after a long day of school. Finally, some students simply do not enjoy doing homework.

These are just a few reasons. In this post, I have explored in detail some reasons why students hate homework to help you make it better for them.

Why is homework important?

The following are some reasons why homework assignments are important in your classroom.

1. Homework is an important tool for students to improve their grades.

Homework is an important tool for students to improve their grades. It can help them stay on track, learn new material, and build discipline. Getting a good grade on homework can help students build confidence, raise their self-esteem, and reduce frustration. They may also develop better study habits and set themselves up for success in college.

2. Homework can help students learn new material and improve their skills.

Homework can help students learn new material and improve their skills. Homework can also be used to motivate students and keep them on track. It is important for parents to set good examples for their children and help them with their homework.

However, parents should also remember that homework doesn’t have to be a burden. Homework can be fun and can help improve students’ time management skills and increase their ability to learn.

3. Homework can help students stay focused and motivated.

There are a few reasons why homework helps students stay focused and motivated in class. First, completing homework assignments can help students review and reinforce the concepts they learn in class. Also, completing homework assignments can help students stay motivated throughout the week. Completing homework assignments can help students take ownership of their own learning and improve their self-esteem. Therefore, homework assignments can give students a sense of accomplishment and boost their confidence. This further keeps students motivated.

4. Homework is an important aspect of education that helps students prepare for life in the real world.

Students have to stay on top of their studies in order to be ready for college, work, and other life experiences. Homework also gives students the opportunity to practice what they learn in class and allows them to prepare for tests. This prepares students for the real world.

5. Homework can help students learn how to study and stay organized.

Homework also helps students learn how to manage their time. Students who do homework can also get used to the amount of work they will have to do as a result of their studies. In other words, they get used to working hard. This can help them prepare for future life experiences.

Check out how to handle students who don’t do their homework here.

10 Reasons Students Hate Homework

Below are some reasons why your students may hate homework. Make sure to avoid them in order to help your students succeed.

1. It Assigns Too Much Work

It assigns too much work. Homework can be a huge burden for students and can often take up too much time. It can be difficult for students to get their work done, especially if they are struggling with it. This can lead to students feeling stressed out and overwhelmed, which can have negative consequences for their academic performance. Find out why you should give less homework here.

2. It Breaks Up the Family Dinner Schedule

One of the most common complaints from students is that their parents don’t have enough time for them. This can be caused by a variety of factors, but one of the most common culprits is homework.

Homework often takes up a lot of time in a day and interrupts the family dinner schedule. For many students, this means they are only able to see their parents during mealtime. This can be disruptive to the family dynamic and cause resentment.

There are also practical considerations to take into account when it comes to homework. Many students find that their schoolwork is easier if they have some uninterrupted time after school, which means that homework often gets in the way of getting some exercise or spending time with friends.

3. It Gets in the Way of Their Other Activities

One reason students may hate homework is that it gets in the way of their other activities. This can be frustrating, as many students want to spend their free time doing things they enjoy. Homework can also take up a lot of time, which could be better spent doing other things.

4. It Can Be Hard to Finish

One of the reasons many students hate doing their homework is that it can be hard to finish. This can be especially true when they have an assignment that requires a lot of research. In this case, students may not know where to begin or what they have to do. For example, if a student has to do research for an assignment, they may have no idea what to look for or where to begin.

5. They Don’t Understand the Instructions

Many students hate homework because it may be difficult to understand the instructions for the homework assignment. For example, unclear instructions on homework assignments can leave students struggling with how to tackle them. This can be frustrating and lead to negative feelings towards homework.

6. They’re afraid of failing if they don’t do their homework.

Students dread homework because they’re afraid of failing. For some, this is a legitimate fear. If you don’t do your homework, you could end up getting a low grade that will reflect poorly on your academic record and future prospects. For others, however, doing their homework is simply not something that comes naturally to them.

In these cases, it’s easy to give in to temptation and skip or ignore their homework altogether. This can have serious consequences, both academically and socially. Not only will students suffer from poor grades if they don’t do their homework, but they’ll also be less likely to get good jobs or admission into prestigious colleges if they’ve failed.

7. They Get Distracted by Social Media or Texting Friends.

One of the major reasons students hate homework is because they get distracted by social media or texting friends. Sites like Facebook and Instagram can be addicting, and it is hard for them to focus on anything else when they are constantly being pulled in different directions.

Some students even find themselves doing their homework in between classes or during class because they don’t have time to do it at home. This diversion from what should be a productive activity can really add up over the course of a semester.

8. They find it boring or dull.

They find homework boring or dull. Students often find homework to be a drag and a burden, rather than something that helps them learn. Homework can be difficult and time-consuming, making it difficult for students to get the most out of their education. Due to that, most students see homework as a boring activity. For example, some students may find it boring to write essays and other types of written assignments.

9. They Can’t Concentrate or Pay Attention to Details.

One of the main reasons students hate homework is because they can’t concentrate or pay attention to details. When they have to focus on a single task, it becomes incredibly difficult for them. Additionally, when details are important, students find it harder to pay attention. This can lead to mistakes and frustration.

10. The Penalties are too severe if they miss a deadline.

This is one of the main reasons students hate homework. If a student misses a deadline, they may have to suffer the consequences, such as having to do more work or having their grade reduced. This can be extremely frustrating for students who are trying to stay on top of their schoolwork, and it can lead them to dislike homework altogether.

In conclusion, homework is a source of frustration for many students. There are several reasons why students hate homework, including its negative impact on their mental and physical health, its negative impact on their grades, and its negative impact on their social lives. To make homework less frustrating for students, you should give students more time to complete it, allow them to work in groups, and provide feedback on their progress. In all, give less homework to your students if you want to help them benefit from it. Beware of the pros and cons of homework when using it.

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August 16, 2021

Is it time to get rid of homework? Mental health experts weigh in

by Sara M Moniuszko

It's no secret that kids hate homework. And as students grapple with an ongoing pandemic that has had a wide-range of mental health impacts, is it time schools start listening to their pleas over workloads?

Some teachers are turning to social media to take a stand against homework .

Tiktok user @misguided.teacher says he doesn't assign it because the "whole premise of homework is flawed."

For starters, he says he can't grade work on "even playing fields" when students' home environments can be vastly different.

"Even students who go home to a peaceful house, do they really want to spend their time on busy work? Because typically that's what a lot of homework is, it's busy work," he says in the video that has garnered 1.6 million likes. "You only get one year to be 7, you only got one year to be 10, you only get one year to be 16, 18."

Mental health experts agree heavy work loads have the potential do more harm than good for students, especially when taking into account the impacts of the pandemic. But they also say the answer may not be to eliminate homework altogether.

Emmy Kang, mental health counselor at Humantold, says studies have shown heavy workloads can be "detrimental" for students and cause a "big impact on their mental, physical and emotional health."

"More than half of students say that homework is their primary source of stress, and we know what stress can do on our bodies," she says, adding that staying up late to finish assignments also leads to disrupted sleep and exhaustion.

Cynthia Catchings, a licensed clinical social worker and therapist at Talkspace, says heavy workloads can also cause serious mental health problems in the long run, like anxiety and depression.

And for all the distress homework causes, it's not as useful as many may think, says Dr. Nicholas Kardaras, a psychologist and CEO of Omega Recovery treatment center.

"The research shows that there's really limited benefit of homework for elementary age students, that really the school work should be contained in the classroom," he says.

For older students, Kang says homework benefits plateau at about two hours per night.

"Most students, especially at these high-achieving schools, they're doing a minimum of three hours, and it's taking away time from their friends from their families, their extracurricular activities. And these are all very important things for a person's mental and emotional health."

Catchings, who also taught third to 12th graders for 12 years, says she's seen the positive effects of a no homework policy while working with students abroad.

"Not having homework was something that I always admired from the French students (and) the French schools, because that was helping the students to really have the time off and really disconnect from school ," she says.

The answer may not be to eliminate homework completely, but to be more mindful of the type of work students go home with, suggests Kang, who was a high-school teacher for 10 years.

"I don't think (we) should scrap homework, I think we should scrap meaningless, purposeless busy work-type homework. That's something that needs to be scrapped entirely," she says, encouraging teachers to be thoughtful and consider the amount of time it would take for students to complete assignments.

The pandemic made the conversation around homework more crucial

Mindfulness surrounding homework is especially important in the context of the last two years. Many students will be struggling with mental health issues that were brought on or worsened by the pandemic, making heavy workloads even harder to balance.

"COVID was just a disaster in terms of the lack of structure. Everything just deteriorated," Kardaras says, pointing to an increase in cognitive issues and decrease in attention spans among students. "School acts as an anchor for a lot of children, as a stabilizing force, and that disappeared."

But even if students transition back to the structure of in-person classes, Kardaras suspects students may still struggle after two school years of shifted schedules and disrupted sleeping habits.

"We've seen adults struggling to go back to in-person work environments from remote work environments. That effect is amplified with children because children have less resources to be able to cope with those transitions than adults do," he explains.

'Get organized' ahead of back-to-school

In order to make the transition back to in-person school easier, Kang encourages students to "get good sleep, exercise regularly (and) eat a healthy diet."

To help manage workloads, she suggests students "get organized."

"There's so much mental clutter up there when you're disorganized... sitting down and planning out their study schedules can really help manage their time," she says.

Breaking assignments up can also make things easier to tackle.

"I know that heavy workloads can be stressful, but if you sit down and you break down that studying into smaller chunks, they're much more manageable."

If workloads are still too much, Kang encourages students to advocate for themselves.

"They should tell their teachers when a homework assignment just took too much time or if it was too difficult for them to do on their own," she says. "It's good to speak up and ask those questions. Respectfully, of course, because these are your teachers. But still, I think sometimes teachers themselves need this feedback from their students."

©2021 USA Today Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Credit: August de Richelieu

Does homework still have value? A Johns Hopkins education expert weighs in

Joyce epstein, co-director of the center on school, family, and community partnerships, discusses why homework is essential, how to maximize its benefit to learners, and what the 'no-homework' approach gets wrong.

By Vicky Hallett

The necessity of homework has been a subject of debate since at least as far back as the 1890s, according to Joyce L. Epstein , co-director of the Center on School, Family, and Community Partnerships at Johns Hopkins University. "It's always been the case that parents, kids—and sometimes teachers, too—wonder if this is just busy work," Epstein says.

But after decades of researching how to improve schools, the professor in the Johns Hopkins School of Education remains certain that homework is essential—as long as the teachers have done their homework, too. The National Network of Partnership Schools , which she founded in 1995 to advise schools and districts on ways to improve comprehensive programs of family engagement, has developed hundreds of improved homework ideas through its Teachers Involve Parents in Schoolwork program. For an English class, a student might interview a parent on popular hairstyles from their youth and write about the differences between then and now. Or for science class, a family could identify forms of matter over the dinner table, labeling foods as liquids or solids. These innovative and interactive assignments not only reinforce concepts from the classroom but also foster creativity, spark discussions, and boost student motivation.

"We're not trying to eliminate homework procedures, but expand and enrich them," says Epstein, who is packing this research into a forthcoming book on the purposes and designs of homework. In the meantime, the Hub couldn't wait to ask her some questions:

What kind of homework training do teachers typically get?

Future teachers and administrators really have little formal training on how to design homework before they assign it. This means that most just repeat what their teachers did, or they follow textbook suggestions at the end of units. For example, future teachers are well prepared to teach reading and literacy skills at each grade level, and they continue to learn to improve their teaching of reading in ongoing in-service education. By contrast, most receive little or no training on the purposes and designs of homework in reading or other subjects. It is really important for future teachers to receive systematic training to understand that they have the power, opportunity, and obligation to design homework with a purpose.

Why do students need more interactive homework?

If homework assignments are always the same—10 math problems, six sentences with spelling words—homework can get boring and some kids just stop doing their assignments, especially in the middle and high school years. When we've asked teachers what's the best homework you've ever had or designed, invariably we hear examples of talking with a parent or grandparent or peer to share ideas. To be clear, parents should never be asked to "teach" seventh grade science or any other subject. Rather, teachers set up the homework assignments so that the student is in charge. It's always the student's homework. But a good activity can engage parents in a fun, collaborative way. Our data show that with "good" assignments, more kids finish their work, more kids interact with a family partner, and more parents say, "I learned what's happening in the curriculum." It all works around what the youngsters are learning.

Is family engagement really that important?

At Hopkins, I am part of the Center for Social Organization of Schools , a research center that studies how to improve many aspects of education to help all students do their best in school. One thing my colleagues and I realized was that we needed to look deeply into family and community engagement. There were so few references to this topic when we started that we had to build the field of study. When children go to school, their families "attend" with them whether a teacher can "see" the parents or not. So, family engagement is ever-present in the life of a school.

My daughter's elementary school doesn't assign homework until third grade. What's your take on "no homework" policies?

There are some parents, writers, and commentators who have argued against homework, especially for very young children. They suggest that children should have time to play after school. This, of course is true, but many kindergarten kids are excited to have homework like their older siblings. If they give homework, most teachers of young children make assignments very short—often following an informal rule of 10 minutes per grade level. "No homework" does not guarantee that all students will spend their free time in productive and imaginative play.

Some researchers and critics have consistently misinterpreted research findings. They have argued that homework should be assigned only at the high school level where data point to a strong connection of doing assignments with higher student achievement . However, as we discussed, some students stop doing homework. This leads, statistically, to results showing that doing homework or spending more minutes on homework is linked to higher student achievement. If slow or struggling students are not doing their assignments, they contribute to—or cause—this "result."

Teachers need to design homework that even struggling students want to do because it is interesting. Just about all students at any age level react positively to good assignments and will tell you so.

Did COVID change how schools and parents view homework?

Within 24 hours of the day school doors closed in March 2020, just about every school and district in the country figured out that teachers had to talk to and work with students' parents. This was not the same as homeschooling—teachers were still working hard to provide daily lessons. But if a child was learning at home in the living room, parents were more aware of what they were doing in school. One of the silver linings of COVID was that teachers reported that they gained a better understanding of their students' families. We collected wonderfully creative examples of activities from members of the National Network of Partnership Schools. I'm thinking of one art activity where every child talked with a parent about something that made their family unique. Then they drew their finding on a snowflake and returned it to share in class. In math, students talked with a parent about something the family liked so much that they could represent it 100 times. Conversations about schoolwork at home was the point.

How did you create so many homework activities via the Teachers Involve Parents in Schoolwork program?

We had several projects with educators to help them design interactive assignments, not just "do the next three examples on page 38." Teachers worked in teams to create TIPS activities, and then we turned their work into a standard TIPS format in math, reading/language arts, and science for grades K-8. Any teacher can use or adapt our prototypes to match their curricula.

Overall, we know that if future teachers and practicing educators were prepared to design homework assignments to meet specific purposes—including but not limited to interactive activities—more students would benefit from the important experience of doing their homework. And more parents would, indeed, be partners in education.

Posted in Voices+Opinion

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Homework Struggles May Not Be a Behavior Problem

Exploring some options to understand and help..

Posted August 2, 2022 | Reviewed by Abigail Fagan

• Mental health challenges and neurodevelopmental differences directly affect children's ability to do homework.
• Understanding what difficulties are getting in the way—beyond the usual explanation of a behavior problem—is key.
• Sleep and mental health needs can take priority over homework completion.

Chelsea was in 10th grade the first time I told her directly to stop doing her homework and get some sleep. I had been working with her since she was in middle school, treating her anxiety disorder. She deeply feared disappointing anyone—especially her teachers—and spent hours trying to finish homework perfectly. The more tired and anxious she got, the harder it got for her to finish the assignments.

One night Chelsea called me in despair, feeling hopeless. She was exhausted and couldn’t think straight. She felt like a failure and that she was a burden to everyone because she couldn’t finish her homework.

She was shocked when I told her that my prescription for her was to go to sleep now—not to figure out how to finish her work. I told her to leave her homework incomplete and go to sleep. We briefly discussed how we would figure it out the next day, with her mom and her teachers. At that moment, it clicked for her that it was futile to keep working—because nothing was getting done.

This was an inflection point for her awareness of when she was emotionally over-cooked and when she needed to stop and take a break or get some sleep. We repeated versions of this phone call several times over the course of her high school and college years, but she got much better at being able to do this for herself most of the time.

When Mental Health Symptoms Interfere with Homework

Kids with mental health or neurodevelopmental challenges often struggle mightily with homework. Challenges can come up in every step of the homework process, including, but not limited to:

• Remembering and tracking assignments and materials
• Getting the mental energy/organization to start homework
• Filtering distractions enough to persist with assignments
• Understanding unspoken or implied parts of the homework
• Remembering to bring finished homework to class
• Being in class long enough to know the material
• Tolerating the fear of not knowing or failing
• Not giving up the assignment because of a panic attack
• Tolerating frustration—such as not understanding—without emotional dysregulation
• Being able to ask for help—from a peer or a teacher and not being afraid to reach out

This list is hardly comprehensive. ADHD , autism spectrum disorder, social anxiety , generalized anxiety, panic disorder, depression , dysregulation, and a range of other neurodevelopmental and mental health challenges cause numerous learning differences and symptoms that can specifically and frequently interfere with getting homework done.

The Usual Diagnosis for Homework Problems is "Not Trying Hard Enough"

Unfortunately, when kids frequently struggle to meet homework demands, teachers and parents typically default to one explanation of the problem: The child is making a choice not to do their homework. That is the default “diagnosis” in classrooms and living rooms. And once this framework is drawn, the student is often seen as not trying hard enough, disrespectful, manipulative, or just plain lazy.

The fundamental disconnect here is that the diagnosis of homework struggles as a behavioral choice is, in fact, only one explanation, while there are so many other diagnoses and differences that impair children's ability to consistently do their homework. If we are trying to create solutions based on only one understanding of the problem, the solutions will not work. More devastatingly, the wrong solutions can worsen the child’s mental health and their long-term engagement with school and learning.

To be clear, we aren’t talking about children who sometimes struggle with or skip homework—kids who can change and adapt their behaviors and patterns in response to the outcomes of that struggle. For this discussion, we are talking about children with mental health and/or neurodevelopmental symptoms and challenges that create chronic difficulties with meeting homework demands.

How Can You Help a Child Who Struggles with Homework?

How can you help your child who is struggling to meet homework demands because of their ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD , school avoidance, or any other neurodevelopmental or mental health differences? Let’s break this down into two broad areas—things you can do at home, and things you can do in communication with the school.

Helping at Home

The following suggestions for managing school demands at home can feel counterintuitive to parents—because we usually focus on helping our kids to complete their tasks. But mental health needs jump the line ahead of task completion. And starting at home will be key to developing an idea of what needs to change at school.

• Set an end time in the evening after which no more homework will be attempted. Kids need time to decompress and they need sleep—and pushing homework too close to or past bedtime doesn’t serve their educational needs. Even if your child hasn’t been able to approach the homework at all, even if they have avoided and argued the whole evening, it is still important for everyone to have a predictable time to shut down the whole process.
• If there are arguments almost every night about homework, if your child isn’t starting homework or finishing it, reframe it from failure into information. It’s data to put into problem-solving. We need to consider other possible explanations besides “behavioral choice” when trying to understand the problem and create effective solutions. What problems are getting in the way of our child’s meeting homework demands that their peers are meeting most of the time?
• Try not to argue about homework. If you can check your own anxiety and frustration, it can be more productive to ally with your child and be curious with them. Kids usually can’t tell you a clear “why” but maybe they can tell you how they are feeling and what they are thinking. And if your child can’t talk about it or just keeps saying “I don't know,” try not to push. Come back another time. Rushing, forcing, yelling, and threatening will predictably not help kids do homework.

Helping at School

The second area to explore when your neurodiverse child struggles frequently with homework is building communication and connections with school and teachers. Some places to focus on include the following.

• Label your child’s diagnoses and break down specific symptoms for the teachers and school team. Nonjudgmental, but specific language is essential for teachers to understand your child’s struggles. Breaking their challenges down into the problems specific to homework can help with building solutions. As your child gets older, help them identify their difficulties and communicate them to teachers.
• Let teachers and the school team know that your child’s mental health needs—including sleep—take priority over finishing homework. If your child is always struggling to complete homework and get enough sleep, or if completing homework is leading to emotional meltdowns every night, adjusting their homework demands will be more successful than continuing to push them into sleep deprivation or meltdowns.
• Request a child study team evaluation to determine if your child qualifies for services under special education law such as an IEP, or accommodations through section 504—and be sure that homework adjustments are included in any plan. Or if such a plan is already in place, be clear that modification of homework expectations needs to be part of it.

The Long-Term Story

I still work with Chelsea and she recently mentioned how those conversations so many years ago are still part of how she approaches work tasks or other demands that are spiking her anxiety when she finds herself in a vortex of distress. She stops what she is doing and prioritizes reducing her anxiety—whether it’s a break during her day or an ending to the task for the evening. She sees that this is crucial to managing her anxiety in her life and still succeeding at what she is doing.

Task completion at all costs is not a solution for kids with emotional needs. Her story (and the story of many of my patients) make this crystal clear.

Candida Fink, M.D. , is board certified in child/adolescent and general psychiatry. She practices in New York and has co-authored two books— The Ups and Downs of Raising a Bipolar Child and Bipolar Disorder for Dummies.

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Everybody hates homework

by: Connie Matthiessen | Updated: September 26, 2023

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Homework haters aren’t just kids — they’re parents, too. So says writer Bruce Feiler: “Heck, just drop the word into any conversation with families and watch the temperature rise,” he wrote in The New York Times .

Why does homework cause so much parental angst? I don’t think my parents hated homework — or ever gave it much thought. They jumped in if we needed help on a sticky math problem or a big science project, and once, when I left a school report on bird migration to the very last minute, my dad stayed up late to help me finish it — after giving me a lecture on procrastination. But overall they treated homework as our responsibility, and I’m certain it never caused them anxiety.

3 kids, 3 different homework styles

That was before tiger and helicopter parents , of course. Today, parents take a far more active role in their kids’ educational lives. Too active a role, in many cases. At a recent Back-to-School Night at an elementary school in a prosperous Bay Area suburb, one teacher told parents that she wouldn’t be assigning big homework projects . When a parent asked why, the teacher replied, “Everyone knows that the students don’t do those projects – their parents do.”

Even if parents don’t overdo it, most wonder about their role — and that’s where the anxiety comes in: Should I be doing more? Am I doing too much? Should I develop rules, or just make my expectations clear?

My three kids have three different homework styles. My oldest is efficient, but slap-dash: he finishes as much as he can at school, and dispatches the rest as quickly as possible, while hunched in an uncomfortable-looking position on the floor in a corner of the living room. My other son is highly distractible: he’ll stop mid-math problem to ponder the amazing cuteness of our cats, and then forget what he’s been doing. My daughter is a perfectionist so homework involves a lot of drama: tortured sighs, crumpled paper, and disquisitions on the idiocy of homework, her school, and education in general.

My role as a parent has been different with each child, too. Since my older son is satisfied if he produces the minimal viable homework product, I’ve tried to encourage him to put in more effort; thankfully, over time he got that message from his teachers (who he’s more apt to listen to), too. By high school, my middle son figured out his own system for avoiding distractions: he holes up in his room with headphones on until his homework is done. With my daughter, I’ve figured out that things go best when I ignore the homework hurricanes.

Hands off homework

Like my parents, I’ve learned to step out of the homework picture as much as possible. I make sure the kids set aside time for homework and make it a priority; create a comfortable, quiet, environment; provide snacks and encouragement. But I only intervene — sparingly — when asked. Actually, this what I try to do; I fail much of the time. As my kids can tell you, I’ve done plenty of reminding, cajoling, and straight up nagging over the years. In retrospect, I don’t think that did much good. It may even have been counterproductive: when he was a junior, my younger son told me, “When you remind me to do homework, it just makes me not want to do it.”

Even though I should know better, I still get caught up in homework dramatics. Just last night, I was making dinner while my daughter did her homework at the dining room table.

“Oh. My. God!!!” she shouted suddenly. She was doing her homework by candlelight (I don’t know why and didn’t ask). At first I thought her hair, or her homework, was on fire. I rushed into the dining room. She was sitting, burn-free, peering irritably into her computer.

“What happened?” I cried.

She gave me a pitying, What are you freaking out about? expression. “Nothing,” she said calmly. “Just a totally lame homework assignment.”

Homework habits that work

In the end, every family has to create their own homework system. What it looks like will depend on the age, temperament, and abilities of your child. Try to remember that homework shouldn’t be about the final product (or the final grade), but about the process itself, and the skills your child is learning along the way. As Dell’Antonia puts it, “…one of the most valuable traits for anyone in doing any job is the ability to put aside distractions and simply do the work, regardless of how much it appeals to you at any given moment.” To learn this lesson, your child may need to make some missteps, and even get a few bad grades — without nagging or a bailout from you.

Want to learn how other parents manage homework struggles? Dell’Antonia uses a timer to help her kids develop a homework habit, Philpott imposes stiff consequences when homework doesn’t get done, and Feiler offers a host of ideas from parenting experts . We’d love to know what works for you. (Particularly if you have a homework drama queen!)

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What do kids like and dislike about school? This is why it matters – and we can do something about it

Professor and Director of the Centre for Inclusive Education, Queensland University of Technology

Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Centre for Inclusive Education, Queensland University of Technology

Associate Professor in Education, Wellbeing and Children's Rights, Queensland University of Technology

Professor in Educational Psychology, University of Wollongong

Disclosure statement

Linda J. Graham receives funding from the Australian Research Council (ARC), the Queensland Government and the Spencer Foundation.

Jenna Gillett-Swan receives funding from the Australian Research Council (ARC) and the Queensland Government.

Callula Killingly and Penny Van Bergen do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

Queensland University of Technology and University of Wollongong provide funding as members of The Conversation AU.

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“School SUX !”

We’ve all heard it and some of us have felt it. It’s such a common sentiment that parents and teachers might be tempted to dismiss it. After all, school is good for you! Like vegetables. It is something you have to have, whether you like it or not.

But does the intrinsic “good” and compulsory nature of school education mean we should ignore students who say they don’t like it? Or that we shouldn’t try to make it more palatable?

Feeling positive about school is associated with higher attendance , better classroom adjustment and engagement , and higher academic achievement .

Students don’t have to love school to experience these benefits. Even those who like school will dislike aspects of it: subjects they aren’t good at, having to get up early, lack of tuckshop options, and so on.

But, for some students, dislike for school can become pervasive – they dislike almost everything about it.

Some of these students may drop out of school, which has serious implications for their future job prospects, financial security and quality of life. So, yes, it matters a great deal if students don’t like school and it’s important to know why , so we can do something about it.

How did we research dislike for school?

Our recent study investigated associations between school liking and factors that previous research suggests make students more likely to stay in school or leave: teacher support , connectedness to school , and the use of detentions, suspensions and expulsions.

Our aim was to learn how we might be able to improve schooling from the perspective of students who like it the least. We surveyed 1,002 students in grades 7-10 from three complex secondary schools. These are the grades and types of schools with the highest suspension and lowest retention rates.

We wanted to find out how these students feel about school and teachers, as well as their experiences of exclusionary discipline, and whether there were important differences between those who said they did and did not like school.

What did we find?

The good news is that two-thirds of our study sample said they like school. Almost half of these students said they had always liked it. One of them said:

“Love it. I’d prefer to live at school. Like, if Hogwarts was an actual place, I’d go there.”

Worryingly, one-third of students said they do not like school. Although school liking was highest in grade 7, most students indicated their dislike began in the transition to high school.

“Yeah, it was probably as soon as I hit high school. Year 7 things got a lot harder.”

This dislike appears to increase over time, with grade 9 having the highest proportion of dislikers. These patterns correspond with suspension rates, which double in grade 7 and peak in grade 9 .

What do students like and dislike most?

Our suspicion that students in these two groups like and dislike different things about school proved correct. While “friends” was the most-liked aspect of school for both groups, a much higher proportion of school likers than dislikers chose “learning”.

“I feel like every day I go to school, I just flex my knowledge. I like to learn. Learning’s alright.”

By contrast, a much higher proportion of dislikers chose “breaktime” as their most-liked aspect. The attraction became clearer through interviews:

“What do you like most about school?” […] “Break. So I get to see my friends.”

A similar pattern emerged for the least-liked aspects of school. A much higher proportion of dislikers than likers selected schoolwork, teachers and discipline policy as the aspects they disliked most.

“Pretty much work, because they give you all the assessments and expect it to be done so quick […]”

These findings are fairly intuitive and resonate with previous research with students with a history of disruptive behaviour who also nominated schoolwork and teachers.

The previous study found an interesting connection between the two. Students who find learning difficult will often clash with teachers whose job it is to make them do their work. Some teachers are kinder and more supportive in how they do that than others.

High school is especially difficult for these students because they have to navigate more teachers and are not good at “code-switching” to meet diverse rules and expectations.

“It was hard because you go from having a teacher the whole term who would let you do stuff and then if you tried to do that in another class, it would just be like no, you can’t do that. Yeah, and they just yell at you.”

Students who clash with teachers also tend also to experience exclusionary discipline. In our sample, not liking school was significantly associated with having received a detention, suspension or expulsion in the past 12 months. Forty-one percent of dislikers reported having been suspended (versus 14% of likers).

Our analyses also found large differences in students’ ratings of teacher support. Dislikers provided lower ratings on every item.

The highest-rated item for both groups was: “My teacher always wants me to do my best.” The lowest was: “My teacher has time for me.” The largest difference between groups was for “My teacher listens to me.”

What can schools do?

Relationships between teachers and students can be improved and educators do not have to wait for governments to act. A simple start would be for school leaders to implement student-driven school change to address issues from the perspective of all students, but especially those who say they least want to be there.

As for government policy, the findings from our study highlight one possibility for consideration. When Queensland shifted grade 7 from the primary phase to the secondary phase in 2015, steps were takens to better support children in their first year of high school. Support included a core teacher model, when one teacher takes the same students for English and humanities or maths and science, reducing the number of teachers that students have to navigate, and dedicated play areas for grade 7 students to help reduce anxiety.

The findings from our study of three Queensland secondary schools suggest that initiative may have had some success for up two-thirds of grade 7 students at least. Yet, if school liking declines in grades 8 and beyond, mirroring the rise in suspensions, is it not time to consider whether grade 8s and 9s may benefit from more intensive pastoral care?

We could always ask them!

• School policy
• School discipline
• School refusal
• School dropout
• School suspension
• School attendance
• pastoral care
• School engagement

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Faculty of Law - Academic Appointment Opportunities

School Life Balance , Tips for Online Students

The Pros and Cons of Homework

Updated: December 7, 2023

Published: January 23, 2020

Homework is a word that most students dread hearing. After hours upon hours of sitting in class , the last thing we want is more schoolwork over our precious weekends. While it’s known to be a staple of traditional schooling, homework has also become a rather divise topic. Some feel as though homework is a necessary part of school, while others believe that the time could be better invested. Should students have homework? Have a closer look into the arguments on both sides to decide for yourself.

Photo by  energepic.com  from  Pexels

Why should students have homework, 1. homework encourages practice.

Many people believe that one of the positive effects of homework is that it encourages the discipline of practice. While it may be time consuming and boring compared to other activities, repetition is needed to get better at skills. Homework helps make concepts more clear, and gives students more opportunities when starting their career .

2. Homework Gets Parents Involved

Homework can be something that gets parents involved in their children’s lives if the environment is a healthy one. A parent helping their child with homework makes them take part in their academic success, and allows for the parent to keep up with what the child is doing in school. It can also be a chance to connect together.

3. Homework Teaches Time Management

Homework is much more than just completing the assigned tasks. Homework can develop time management skills , forcing students to plan their time and make sure that all of their homework assignments are done on time. By learning to manage their time, students also practice their problem-solving skills and independent thinking. One of the positive effects of homework is that it forces decision making and compromises to be made.

4. Homework Opens A Bridge Of Communication

Homework creates a connection between the student, the teacher, the school, and the parents. It allows everyone to get to know each other better, and parents can see where their children are struggling. In the same sense, parents can also see where their children are excelling. Homework in turn can allow for a better, more targeted educational plan for the student.

5. Homework Allows For More Learning Time

Homework allows for more time to complete the learning process. School hours are not always enough time for students to really understand core concepts, and homework can counter the effects of time shortages, benefiting students in the long run, even if they can’t see it in the moment.

6. Homework Reduces Screen Time

Many students in North America spend far too many hours watching TV. If they weren’t in school, these numbers would likely increase even more. Although homework is usually undesired, it encourages better study habits and discourages spending time in front of the TV. Homework can be seen as another extracurricular activity, and many families already invest a lot of time and money in different clubs and lessons to fill up their children’s extra time. Just like extracurricular activities, homework can be fit into one’s schedule.

The Other Side: Why Homework Is Bad

1. homework encourages a sedentary lifestyle.

Should students have homework? Well, that depends on where you stand. There are arguments both for the advantages and the disadvantages of homework.

While classroom time is important, playground time is just as important. If children are given too much homework, they won’t have enough playtime, which can impact their social development and learning. Studies have found that those who get more play get better grades in school , as it can help them pay closer attention in the classroom.

Children are already sitting long hours in the classroom, and homework assignments only add to these hours. Sedentary lifestyles can be dangerous and can cause health problems such as obesity. Homework takes away from time that could be spent investing in physical activity.

2. Homework Isn’t Healthy In Every Home

While many people that think homes are a beneficial environment for children to learn, not all homes provide a healthy environment, and there may be very little investment from parents. Some parents do not provide any kind of support or homework help, and even if they would like to, due to personal barriers, they sometimes cannot. Homework can create friction between children and their parents, which is one of the reasons why homework is bad .

3. Homework Adds To An Already Full-Time Job

School is already a full-time job for students, as they generally spend over 6 hours each day in class. Students also often have extracurricular activities such as sports, music, or art that are just as important as their traditional courses. Adding on extra hours to all of these demands is a lot for children to manage, and prevents students from having extra time to themselves for a variety of creative endeavors. Homework prevents self discovery and having the time to learn new skills outside of the school system. This is one of the main disadvantages of homework.

4. Homework Has Not Been Proven To Provide Results

Endless surveys have found that homework creates a negative attitude towards school, and homework has not been found to be linked to a higher level of academic success.

The positive effects of homework have not been backed up enough. While homework may help some students improve in specific subjects, if they have outside help there is no real proof that homework makes for improvements.

It can be a challenge to really enforce the completion of homework, and students can still get decent grades without doing their homework. Extra school time does not necessarily mean better grades — quality must always come before quantity.

Accurate practice when it comes to homework simply isn’t reliable. Homework could even cause opposite effects if misunderstood, especially since the reliance is placed on the student and their parents — one of the major reasons as to why homework is bad. Many students would rather cheat in class to avoid doing their homework at home, and children often just copy off of each other or from what they read on the internet.

5. Homework Assignments Are Overdone

The general agreement is that students should not be given more than 10 minutes a day per grade level. What this means is that a first grader should be given a maximum of 10 minutes of homework, while a second grader receives 20 minutes, etc. Many students are given a lot more homework than the recommended amount, however.

On average, college students spend as much as 3 hours per night on homework . By giving too much homework, it can increase stress levels and lead to burn out. This in turn provides an opposite effect when it comes to academic success.

The pros and cons of homework are both valid, and it seems as though the question of ‘‘should students have homework?’ is not a simple, straightforward one. Parents and teachers often are found to be clashing heads, while the student is left in the middle without much say.

It’s important to understand all the advantages and disadvantages of homework, taking both perspectives into conversation to find a common ground. At the end of the day, everyone’s goal is the success of the student.

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Five Reasons Kids Hate School and How You Can Help Them

1.  Homework

• Why it can be a challenge: One of the earliest home battles related to school is often homework. When to do, how to do it, where to do it, how much to help, etc. While some schools do not introduce homework until later grades, it inevitably becomes part of the daily school routine at one point or another. Homework takes away from time that can otherwise be spent doing a preferred after school activity, socializing, or just relaxing. Students may struggle with homework for a variety of reasons including: learning differences, executive function deficits or stamina.
• What you can do: Research tells us that homework does not hold much added value in terms of learning. Parents should have a realistic conversation with their children’s teachers at the beginning of the year to ask a few key questions: 1. How much time can my child expect to spend on homework each night? 2. How does homework factor into their grades? Is there a consequence if they do not complete all the homework each evening? And 3. How much help and supervision should I be providing for my child? The answers to these questions can help you structure what homework time should look like in your house. For example, if the teacher explains that they want the students to work for 30 minutes each evening and parents should not be assisting their children, then homework time may look like a timer being put on for 30 minutes and you making sure your child is actively working rather than helping them. Having these answers will help to formulate expectations and allow you to further frame the role of homework for you child. Furthermore, you can work with your child’s teacher to identify if any of the challenges listed above (learning differences, executive functioning challenges, etc.) may be a factor, which can put you on the correct path in seeking an evaluation and professional treatment.
• Why it can be a challenge: All children experience ups and downs in friendships, as well as periods of loneliness. Establishing and maintaining friendships over time is difficult and can be compounded by different variables at school. While these sorts of challenges may be typical at all ages, bullying is never acceptable and should be addressed immediately. Bullying is different than teasing in that there is an imbalance in the peer relationship.
• What you can do: Talk to your child about how he or she is feeling. It is important to always encourage your child to talk to you or a trusted adult at school if they are being bullied or they feel excessively worried in social situations at school. If you notice continued sadness or anxiety, consultation and treatment with a licensed psychologist is recommend. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is the gold standard in evidence-based treatment to address internalizing disorders.

3.  Standardized Testing

• Why it can be a challenge: standardized testing is now part of the fabric of education. Curriculum is geared toward testing, and most schools will institute testing only focused work at one point in the school year. Additionally, there are outside tutors and programs designed to help students study for standardized tests. Many students struggle with various aspects of testing: academic pressure, testing environment, time constraints, method of testing, etc.
• What you can do: Talk to your child about the role of testing in their education. While testing is important, continue to prioritize other preferred activities and educational activities. This means it is important to not disrupt your child’s schedule for adding test prep, unless absolutely necessary. Work with your child to assess what is difficult about the testing. This may mean having a conversation with the teacher or a neuropsychological evaluation to determine if any testing accommodations may be necessary. Testing accommodations include: extra time, separate location with smaller amounts of kids, multiple day testing, etc.
• Why it can be a challenge: Sleep is critical to all cognitive functioning. Lack of sleep or not getting enough sleep can mimic many psychological disorders, including ADHD, Anxiety and Depression. Additionally, many school days start very early, which can be especially problematic for older children in middle or high school. Many times students are also up late completing homework and staying connected via social media. The combination of these two factors can lead to lack of adequate sleep. It is also important to mention that sleep is not cumulative, meaning lack of sleep cannot be “made up for” on the weekend.
• What you can do: Stress the importance of good sleep hygiene in your home. This means setting a bedtime routine and sticking to it as consistently as possible. Screens should be avoided right before bedtime as well. If your child has to wake up very early for school, bedtime routines should start earlier. Keep in mind that is important that your child also have time to relax before bedtime. For older children with personal electronic devices, these can be stored outside their bedroom to ensure that bedtime really means bedtime. Remember the recommended amounts of sleep per age: school age children (9-11 hours), teenagers (8-10 hours) and young adults (7-9 hours).

5. Teachers

• Why it can be a challenge: Just like children have different styles of learning, all teachers have different styles of teaching. If your child’s teacher is not a great match, that can lead to daily difficulty in school. This can manifest in greater distractibility, behavioral concerns, academic struggles, as well as worry and sadness.
• What you can do: Talk to your child’s teacher. Assess the expectations of the classroom as well as your child’s ability to meet those expectations. Discuss accommodations with the teacher that may help your child become more successful. Examples include: movement breaks, alternate seating arrangements, classroom jobs, etc. If the situation does not improve, a trained psychologist or behavior therapist will be able to observe the classroom and make specific recommendations.

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Why Do Students Hate School and How We Can Change That

Table of contents:.

Every school bell rings with tales of academic adventures and youthful camaraderie. Yet, beneath the surface, whispers of discontent often echo in school corridors. Tackling the question of why students hate school isn’t just about pointing fingers but understanding root causes and finding innovative solutions. This exploration dives deep into the myriad of reasons—from academic pressure to outdated curriculums—and sheds light on how parents and educators can collaboratively transform the narrative. Every student deserves an education journey filled with joy, curiosity, and inspiration.

Why Do Kids Hate School? Delving Into the Root Causes

School is a place for growth, learning, and friendships. But for some students, the very mention might evoke feelings of dread. Ever wondered why?

The Weight of Academic Pressure

It’s no secret that academic pressure is one of the prime reasons why kids hate school. The burden of excessive homework, paired with sky-high expectations, can easily overwhelm students. Constantly chasing grades and perfection might not only rob them of their childhood but can also lead to burnout. Instead of focusing solely on results, there’s a need to balance academic rigor with student well-being. This could involve ensuring kids get downtime and holistic education, not just heaps of assignments.

The Classes’ Failure to Captivate

Lack of engagement is another substantial issue. Remember the lessons you eagerly awaited? It was probably because the teaching method was interactive and creative. Schools should prioritize engaging teaching methods that cater to different learning styles. Whether it’s through group projects, field trips, or tech-based methods, an interactive approach can make learning more relatable and fun.

Navigating Social Hurdles

Bullying and social issues are often sidelined, but school violence statistics paint a grim picture. The impact of bullying can be long-lasting, affecting a student’s self-esteem and love for school. Fostering a safe and inclusive school environment is paramount. This means proactive anti-bullying programs and channels for students to voice their concerns.

Irrelevance of Curriculum

A disengaged student might often be the result of an irrelevant curriculum. If what they’re learning feels disconnected from their world, boredom kicks in. Schools should be dynamic, updating their curriculum to reflect the evolving world, ensuring it remains relevant and engaging.

Testing Times

According to research , an overemphasis on testing is draining students. The anxiety, the pressure – it’s more than just about getting a grade. While assessment is crucial, schools could explore alternatives to testing-based assessment, like project-based evaluations or continuous assessment, to reduce stress and foster a love for learning.

Turning Classrooms Into Catalysts: Solutions From Schools

If we were to peek into the minds of students, the question “How many kids hate school?” might return a number higher than we’d like. But every challenge is an opportunity in disguise. As we dig deeper into potential solutions, schools are rising to the occasion, turning classrooms into catalysts of inspiration and learning motivation .

Prioritizing the Heart and Mind

While academics are the backbone of education, schools are realizing the importance of promoting student well-being. Reducing the weight of excessive homework, rolling out counseling services, and setting up mental health resources such as school counselors are crucial steps. After all, a relaxed mind is more receptive to learning.

Teaching Outside the Textbook

Innovative teaching isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. By backing educators with professional development opportunities, schools are witnessing a shift towards student-centered and project-based learning. According to Edutopia , these new approaches to learning promote critical thinking and creativity and help students retain more knowledge. It’s a delightful sight to see students not just learn but live the lessons.

Building Trust, Breaking Silence

Bullying isn’t just a school issue; it’s a societal one. With comprehensive anti-bullying programs in place, schools are setting clear standards for behavior. More importantly, open communication channels ensure that students always have a voice and a listening ear.

Evolving With Times

The curriculum isn’t a static entity. With regular reviews and a touch of student feedback, it’s evolving to stay relevant and in tune with the changing world. When students see the real-world application of their lessons, their drive to learn multiplies.

Measuring Beyond Marks

Rethinking assessment is the need of the hour. As schools explore beyond standardized testing, there’s a growing emphasis on formative assessment and skill development. After all, it’s not just about the grade but the growth.

“My Child Hates School”: Parental Playbook to Fuel Passion

Beyond this declaration might lie deeper sentiments like disinterest, distress, or even depression. As guardians of their aspirations, parents play a pivotal role in turning things around.

Listening and Sharing

The key to understanding is open communication. Foster a home environment where discussing school isn’t a chore but a routine. From their favorite subject to that tricky math problem, dive deep into their academic world. But equally crucial is being attentive to signs of distress, as neglecting such could lead to a child who hates school and depression. Furthermore, studies have affirmed that parental educational participation, like discussing school matters, checking homework, or engaging in school activities, can amplify children’s academic performances

The Parental Presence

Robust parent involvement in schools does wonders. Active participation, like attending parent-teacher meetings or being a part of school events, allows parents to be in sync with their child’s educational journey. Moreover, it provides a platform to advocate for their needs, ensuring they get the best educational experience tailored to them.

Crafting the Home Classroom

Home isn’t just where the heart is; it’s where learning blooms too. Design a conducive learning environment that mirrors the joy of discovery. Encourage reading, exploration, and hobbies that enrich and complement what’s taught at school.

Beyond the Books

Schooling isn’t restricted to textbooks. Encourage your child to step out and indulge in extracurricular activities. Whether it’s art, sports, or music, help them find their passion outside the classroom walls. After all, discovering one’s interest can reignite the love for learning

Digital Vigilance: Introducing Safes

In the digital era, staying connected to a child’s school journey extends beyond parent-teacher meetings. Enter Safes —a parental control app that bridges the gap between home and school. Safes not only allows parents to monitor academic progress but ensures that the online realm aligns with their child’s educational journey. Tailored to both iOS and Android platforms, Safes offers the ideal blend of oversight and flexibility, allowing guardians to be present in their child’s digital world, ensuring a seamless and secure learning experience. A proactive approach, in tandem with schools’ efforts, can truly shape a brighter educational future.

Turning the Page on School Discontent

In the grand tapestry of education, every stitch represents a student’s experience, with its shades of joy, curiosity, and sometimes, dismay. Addressing why students may disdain school requires more than fleeting concern—it demands understanding, action, and consistent effort. Whether it’s through revamped teaching methods, evolved curriculums, or fortified parental involvement, the canvas of school life can be recolored with brighter hues. After all, the ultimate quest is ensuring that every young learner feels the rhythm of joy in their educational journey and sees school as a sanctuary of discovery rather than a den of distress.

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Psychology Explains 5 Reasons Why Kids Hate Doing Homework

• By Lakeisha Ethans
• Published on September 25, 2022
• Last modified May 21, 2023

Having kids is a full-time job; each period of their life has different struggles. When they are babies, they take up all your time and energy. Then, as they grow up, they become more independent. Because of that, things should become easier in time, right? But all parents know that’s not the case. So, as the children mature, they may develop an aversion to extra schoolwork.

They start having trouble with friends or even dealing with little crushes. But one of the most challenging aspects of a kid’s life is managing school work. In the first few years, it’s fun and easy. Kids can draw, read entertaining stories, learn the basics and make friends. But then, the dreaded homework comes into their lives.  

You might have difficulty understanding why kids hate doing homework as an adult. Memories aren’t always accurate, so you might feel that you never struggled with doing it. But that’s not the case. All parents tend to portray themselves as successful to their kids. Still, saying that you didn’t hate homework is a lie.

Even you dreaded having to do the extra work the day you went to school. And your kids hate it just as much, if not more, because of the added pressure on them. If you don’t believe this to be a fact, you should look at all the psychological data supporting it. So, here are five psychological reasons why kids hate doing homework.  

5 Reasons Why Kids Hate Doing Homework

Once you understand why your children don’t feel like more schoolwork, you will be better equipped to assist them.

1 – They are Already Tired And Don’t Want More Schoolwork

Contrary to popular belief, school work shouldn’t be a full-time job. But society still treats it as such. As a result, all students, especially high school students, are busy with schoolwork for at least thirty hours a week. And that’s on the lower end. In the first few years of school, kids have four to five classes daily, often followed by after school.

They start taking six to seven classes daily, extracurricular activities, and homework as they grow older. Hardworking students can study for up to 70 or 80 hours a week. This is crazy when you think that a high paying nine to five job only takes up 40 hours of someone’s week. And they are adults who work to earn money, not just little kids.

Even adults experience this. When they get home from work, they don’t want to hear anything about work for the rest of the day. So, why are we so surprised when kids don’t want to deal with any extra work after a  full day ? It’s insane to think that kids have to spend as much time as a full-time job (or more) to keep up with school. They are young and should have the time to be kids and live their lives.

But when you add the enormous amounts of homework, you can understand why they hate it. Kids are probably exhausted and want to stay in bed or hang out with friends after school. There’s nothing they dread as much as having to deal with even more schoolwork. So, as a result, they have little to no time to relax or even get enough rest.

As a parent, you need to ensure they don’t work themselves to exhaustion. Help them with homework when they are too busy and allow them to relax after school.  

2 – Making Time to Do Their Homework Is Hard

It is essential to understand that kids find it hard to make time to do all their homework. On a typical day, they are expected to attend every class, do chores, hang out with family, and still find time for homework. If you made an adult handle this many responsibilities, they would find it hard to schedule time for everything.

As a kid, you don’t still have enough life experience to know how to be organized. When people start throwing more and more work at a kid, they’ll likely collapse under pressure. Even if your kid is academically inclined, it still doesn’t mean it’s easy for them to juggle doing everything. They might have even liked doing homework at some point when it was easy and short. But, as kids grow up, they will inevitably start hating homework.

Making the time to do homework usually means sacrificing the time to do other activities. Say they had waited weeks to go to a movie with their friends, but now they can’t because they have homework. That’s a sacrifice that’s incredibly hard for them to do. But usually, the parent would force them to choose schoolwork. Of course, they’ll grow to hate doing extra work when that disallows them from having fun. Parents should be wary of this and ensure they help their kids schedule time for school and fun or relaxing activities.  

3 – Homework Can Be Very Boring

Let’s face it; many kids find homework useless and boring. And, in many cases, it can be. Maybe your kid is sure they want to work in a science field, like medicine. But, then, what’s the point of them writing a five-page history essay? Sure, you could argue that it’s for their general knowledge. But that’s not a strong argument, especially when you think they could be doing better things with their time.

And yes, it’s better if they choose to relax after being unable to for a day than to write an essay or do other additional schoolwork. Life is much more than getting straight As; parents should understand that. But they usually don’t, forcing their kids to do even the most useless extra work. Think about it; if someone forces you to do something incredibly boring, you will hate it. But, on the other hand, your kid may not have anything against the Renaissance era.

But they will after having to spend ten hours working on a project about it. Sometimes, too much homework can make kids hate a subject they used to love. For example, they could be fascinated by how the universe works but still refuse to do their physics homework. If that’s the case, you, as a parent, should consider that they find their schoolwork  boring . In that case, please make an effort to make it interesting for them. Or at least give them rewards for doing that tedious work. 

4 – Homework Doesn’t Usually Incentivise Creativity

One of the problems with the school system is that it doesn’t tend to reward creative people. And we’re not talking just about artistry here. That’s also an issue, but some schools try to reward artists. There are even special schools for arts, as you surely know. But on the other hand, some kids hate doing homework because they feel that the homework doesn’t reward their artistry.

A kid who is a great painter might hate doing science homework. But that doesn’t happen to everyone. But what is more common is kids feeling like they can’t be  creative . Teachers think that good homework follows all the rules. But that means that kids who do things their way will never earn a reward. Worse, they might feel shame about going off the beaten path. For example, if they were asked to do an essay and did a beautiful video presentation, they would get an F.

Maybe they put in much more work than other kids. Perhaps they are passionate about videography and want to share this passion with their peers. But in our school system, this behavior is seen as rebellious . So these kids are beaten down until they fit into a box that the school wants them to fit in. Because of this, creative kids will grow to hate doing homework.   

5 – Homework Isn’t Actually About Learning

Homework should be a way for kids to understand concepts they learned in class. If a kid struggles to do homework, the teachers should take the time to help them. Not knowing how to do their schoolwork shows that the kids are struggling and need extra help. Instead, homework is just a significant source of anxiety for most kids.

Students who don’t know how to do their homework might earn a bad grade that could ruin their GPA. Even if that doesn’t happen, they will probably get scolded and shamed in front of the class. Instead of being able to learn from their mistakes, they are taught that errors are unacceptable.

Homework is often just a way for some teachers to assign extra grades instead of being a learning tool.  As a parent, don’t be surprised if your kids hate doing it. Remember that they are probably just scared of messing up. Instead, it would help if you took some time to help them overcome what they’re struggling with.  

Final Thoughts on Some Reasons Why Kids Hate Doing Homework

One of the biggest hurdles in a student’s life is doing insane amounts of homework. And schoolwork is probably a significant contention between parents and their kids. So, if you only take one piece of advice from this article, remember to help your child out always. Even if you don’t understand them, do your best to help them.  

There are many psychological reasons why kids hate doing homework. The most common one is that they are already tired after going to school for the day. So, the extra work is nothing but a burden that might not even help them. Not only that but doing it means sacrificing other activities. And, to be honest, homework can be very dull. Kids would much rather do something more interesting, like investing time in their hobbies.

As a parent, also be aware that your homework isn’t about learning and creativity. It’s sometimes just a way for teachers to grade students without much effort. So, if you find that your kid is apprehensive about doing homework, don’t chastise them. Instead, try to help them do it. You can even consider allowing them to skip doing it. Sometimes, it’s much more important for kids to live their lives instead of being locked up inside with a book all day.  

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About the Author

Lakeisha Ethans

Lakeisha Ethans is a compassionate mom of two who believes in the power of positivity, kindness, and empathy to create a positive change in the world. As a Contributing Writer at Power of Positivity, Lakeisha strives to make a difference through her content. Lakeisha holds a degree in Accounting and Business Management and has also pursued her interest in holistic health and wellness by obtaining a certificate in Yoga and Ayurveda.

Driven by her love for writing, she can craft compelling content that deeply connects with her readers. She aims to establish a connection between words and hearts, effortlessly weaving narratives that inspire, inform, and entertain. In addition, Lakeisha is an interior design enthusiast and a gardening fanatic!

She is a widely published relationship and gardening expert and a ghost author of several published books. When she’s not writing, she’s either knee-deep in soil, tending to her beloved plants, looking for ways to spruce up her space, or making memories with her kids!

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Here’s Why So Many Students Hate School

Written by Nathan Brunner .

Last updated on March 27, 2023.

If you ever thought about hating school and all its dramas, endless class requirements, and examinations that don’t make sense, you’re not alone. 

Hating school is the norm.

According to a recent study , 73% of students say that they do not like school! But have you ever thought why?  

Why do students dislike the idea of learning in an institution?

I will answer this question in detail. 

But first, let me tell you the story of my niece Michelle, a junior chemical engineering student at the University of Illinois.

Tip : Find Student Jobs on Salarship .

What a Typical School Day Looks Like

Here’s how my niece describes her college life.

Imagine this is your life:

My alarm starts ringing at 6 a.m. every single day.

However, I wake up after 40 minutes of convincing myself I have to get up, eat breakfast, and catch the 7:15 bus to school. So I’m left with only 30 minutes of free time from dozing too long.

I end up panicking and skipping food and coffee. 

I take the bus to school as it’s cheaper than driving a car and helps me prepare for my first subject. It takes about 15 minutes for me to get from home to school. 

From the bus stop, it takes a 10-minute walk to get to my school, and I guess an additional 5-7 minutes to get to my first class. 

Things can get longer when you bump into traffic or a friend and spend a few minutes talking, which is usually the reason I get late, sheesh!

Fiction 8:00-9:00 a.m.

It’s my first non-technical class, and I’m quite happy with it as it allows me to focus on other subjects requiring much more brainpower. 

But then again, it’s a compromise, so I have to work twice as hard on certain days when I have to catch up on fiction . 

Awkward gap 9:00-12:00 p.m.

So after fiction, I have a 3-hour gap that annoys me most of the time.

It gives me more hours to focus on my homework and even have lunch without any time pressure, but it gets super boring and unproductive .

Dynamics lecture 12:00-1:00 p.m.

This class is exhausting. It’s technical and full of calculations that leave me with a headache.

To make matters worse, I dislike my professor here. I don’t find him that qualified, and he explains too briefly. 

In a nutshell, he’s not doing a great job at all — unenthusiastic about teaching such a complex subject! 

Modeling-Human Physiology 1:00-2:00 p.m.

Another class that I wish was less technical than the previous one. It’s annoying how I need to take two technical subjects back to back. Although I find my professor passionate and sincere about teaching, the class has too many equations that you don’t expect. 

Another concern is that I have a few classmates here who are annoying and aren’t taking this class seriously . 

Research 3:00-6:00 p.m.

After drying my brain from those two subjects, I have to analyze musculoskeletal motion data. That’s all to understand the balance and movement of human beings — in an absurdly meticulous manner.

After this 3-hour-long session, I am nothing but drained. 

Dinner 6:00-6:30 p.m.

I have a love-and-hate relationship with my dinner break. First, it’s only 30 minutes! It drives me nuts that I have to rush to the nearest cafe or restaurant and eat whatever’s quick to chow. 

I wish that there was a way to transfer that morning gap to each class evenly. But that’s college; you have to do what you have to do. 

Engineering council meeting 6:30-8:00 

It’s a must at our school to attend this meeting. So here I am, not satisfied with my dinner. We do get a lot of helpful information here, but I’m just too tired already from a long day of class . 

Homework 8:00-11:00 p.m.

Since I have no plans of flunking out of college and seeing my money go to waste, I have to study all night at the library with a few colleagues. A cup of coffee right after the meeting does the trick. 

Home 11:00-11:30 p.m.

After a long day, I finally got to rest. Super tired and sleepy already, but I have to take a warm bath to relax. After that, I instantly fall asleep, and then it’s another battle at 6 a.m.  

I have been battling this schedule since the first day of this semester. 

Let’s Recap: 5 Reasons Why Students Hate School

Now, after reading about my niece’s hectic schedule, you should know by now that school isn’t flexible. 

School is different, unlike work or running a business where you can skip a day or two without facing dire consequences. 

You not only waste time and money, but you also risk failing class if you force things to run your way. 

Seeing an F on your report card can give people the impression that you’re either lazy or slow. And when people see you as either of those two, you get fewer opportunities in life. 

That’s what makes school so much more unforgiving than running a business or going to work. 

But here’s a breakdown of why students don’t like school in general:

1. It’s not up to you

Again, as we’ve mentioned above, schools don’t leave you with many options. 

You take what they offer and follow that to the letter. 

When they say you must be there at 7:15 a.m. sharp, you have to be there, or else you’ll be late. 

Although you may have the right to choose your major, you’re still left with annoying prerequisites, minors, and schedules you may hate . 

You end up feeling helpless and forced to follow. It’s not just students that hate the idea of being forced but also adults. 

However, that’s how society runs things at the moment. 

There are a few schools in the world today trying to change this norm, but until then, students are stuck with this system where they can’t fully customize their learning. 

2. You don’t get to choose your classmates

You don’t get to choose your classmates

Like above, it’s not up to you. 

Whether you like them or not, your classmates are there in the same room as you. 

Some of them may likely be bullies that you have to deal with every day, which is one of the biggest reasons why students hate school even more. 

Unlike work, where you can effectively complain about a colleague, schools have a high tolerance for that. 

Add the parents backing these bullies up — it’s almost impossible to get them kicked out until something significant happens. 

3. Some teachers don’t know what they’re doing

Let’s face it, not every person who graduates college deserves to become an educator. 

Some professors aren’t enthusiastic about helping their students get good grades. They’re more into handing out examinations and assessing the student instead of focusing on making them learn. 

Students feel like they don’t have a chance against a bully; how much more would they feel when talking about facing a terror professor? 

4. Information overload

Another reason why most students hate school is the sheer information that it requires for them to digest. 

Remember, you don’t have that many options. In school, you’re in a take-it-or-leave-it situation. 

If you take it, like everyone who goes to school, you should be prepared to take everything regardless of your opinion about the subject.

The problem is that some people aren’t ready to take on such a load. Remember, everyone is unique and has their capacity. 

For some students, this information overload can make them rebel and skip school. And as a consequence, they end up failing, making them hate school even more. 

5. Pressure

Last on our list that makes students hate school so much is the pressure that comes with it. 

Your parents expect you to provide them with good grades. It’s not just an Asian stereotype, but any parent would be happy to see their kid with an A than just passing with a C. 

This pressure puts a lot of stress on the students, making their experience in school even more miserable. 

Add pain to injury — bullies will tease students with low grades and call them names.

Tip : 114,514 Student Jobs Are Available on Salarship .

The Bottom Line

Hating school isn’t anything new. These institutions are never perfect, and they’ll never be. However, they are doing their best to upgrade and improve and give every student a worthwhile experience apart from just education.

What you can do as a student is to persevere and focus on the outcome — the life after school. 

A high GPA will help you reach the top and get more out of your studies.

Instead of hunting for a job, you get corporate invitations for high-paying positions. 

Perhaps, that’s one of the things why school is challenging and unlikeable because it prepares us for the next big thing — life.

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Wonder of the Day #1385

Why Do We Have Homework?

SCIENCE — Health and Fitness

Have You Ever Wondered...

• Why do we have homework?
• What are the benefits of homework?
• Is there such a thing as too much homework?
• classroom ,
• education ,
• knowledge ,
• mathematics ,
• prioritization ,
• repetition ,
• responsibility ,
• time management ,
• Classroom ,
• Education ,
• Knowledge ,
• Mathematics ,
• Prioritization ,
• Repetition ,
• Responsibility ,
• Time Management

Today’s Wonder of the Day was inspired by Nicolas from fort lauderdale, FL. Nicolas Wonders , “ Who invented homework? ” Thanks for WONDERing with us, Nicolas!

What has eight letters and strikes fear into the hearts of students around the world? No, it's not broccoli, but that was a good guess! Give up? HOMEWORK !

Did you just gasp in fear and anguish ? We're sorry, but homework is a fact of life and it's time we took a closer look at it. Even though it might get in the way of playing outside or watching your favorite television show, it's necessary and, believe it or not, good for you!

Homework creates a bridge between school and home. Parents rarely get to spend much time with you while you're at school. Homework allows them to keep up with what you're doing in your classes on a daily basis. But you don't have homework purely for your parents' benefit . It's good for you, too!

Homework can help you become a better student in several different ways. First of all, homework given in advance of a particular subject can help you make the most of your classroom discussion time. For example, before beginning a discussion of a complex period in history , it can be very helpful to read background information as homework the night before.

Homework also gives you valuable practice with what you've learned in the classroom. Often, the brief period of time you have during class to learn something new is simply not enough. Repeating classroom concepts at home helps to cement in your mind the things you learned.

For example, you've probably experienced the value of homework when it comes to mathematics . A new concept explained in class might seem foreign at first. With repetition via homework, however, you reinforce what you learned in class and it sticks with you. Without homework, a lot of classroom time would be wasted with repetition that could more easily be done outside the classroom.

In these ways, homework expands upon what is done during the day in the classroom. Your overall educational experience is better, because homework helps you to gain and retain more knowledge than would be possible with only classroom work. As you learn more, you know more and you achieve more…and you have homework to thank!

Homework teaches lessons beyond just what's taught in the classroom, too. Bringing homework home, completing it correctly, and turning it in promptly teaches a host of other important life skills, from time management and responsibility to organization and prioritization .

Despite these benefits found by researchers, the topics of who should receive homework and how much homework are hotly debated among educators and researchers. In one study , researchers found that academic gains from homework increased as grade level increased, suggesting homework is more beneficial for older students. Some researchers have found that too much homework can lower or cancel its benefits and become counterproductive , because students become burned out.

How much is too much? That depends upon many complex factors, including the individual abilities of the child, other demands upon time, such as sports, part-time jobs, family responsibilities, and types of classes. If you feel overburdened by homework, the best thing you can do is to open a dialog with your teacher. Be open and honest about your feelings regarding homework and work with your teacher to strike a reasonable balance that helps you achieve your educational goals.

Wonder What's Next?

Tomorrow’s Wonder of the Day feels just like home!

We hope today's Wonder of the Day didn't feel like homework! Be sure to check out the following activities with a friend or family member:

• While some kids don't like any homework, almost every student has homework that he doesn't mind doing on a regular basis. For some, reading a novel for homework is pure joy, because they love to read. For others, doing group projects as homework is great fun, because they get to have fun with their friends in the process. Make a list of the types of homework that you enjoy the most. Once you have your list, think about ways in which you can encourage your teachers to assign more of your favorite types of homework and less of the types you don't enjoy as much. Opening a dialog with your teacher about homework can be a mutually-beneficial conversation that can increase learning both in and out of the classroom!
• You know what goes great with homework? Food! It's true. A healthy snack can give you the energy you need to concentrate and tackle your homework as soon as you get home from school. If you need some ideas, jump online and check out After School Snacks To Power Homework . Share what you learn with your friends and family members. What's your favorite after-school snack? Why?
• Do you have a lot of homework on a regular basis? It can be easy to get overwhelmed. To make sure you make the most of your homework time, it helps to be organized. Setting priorities and sticking to them will help you complete your assignments on time with minimal stress. For help learning how to do this, read through How to Prioritize Homework Assignments: 5 Steps from School Habits. Using what you learn, put a plan into place that will help you make sure you become a homework hero!

Wonder Sources

• http://www.ascd.org/publications/educational-leadership/mar07/vol64/num06/The-Case-For-and-Against-Homework.aspx
• http://www.centerforpubliceducation.org/Main-Menu/Instruction/What-research-says-about-the-value-of-homework-At-a-glance/What-research-says-about-the-value-of-homework-Research-review.html

Did you get it?

Wonder contributors.

We’d like to thank:

quenton , Jaiden , Leo , Grace and Lenysia for contributing questions about today’s Wonder topic!

Keep WONDERing with us!

Wonder Words

• responsibility
• organization
• prioritization
• counterproductive
• overburdened
• educational

Hopefully this article helped you realize why homework is helpful, nyiahna. Keep WONDERing with us!

Don't get homework at this school. :)

Hopefully this article helped you realize why homework is helpful! 

yeah me too a lot

Wow, that's great for those schools! Thanks for stopping by, Mister C.

You're welcome, Person!

Thanks for sharing, Joe!

That's a great way to look at it, Adriana! 

That's a great way to look at it, Adriana! Thanks for sharing! 

I need to vent

Homework could benefit you. It gives your brain an easier time when you get a surprise quiz.

That's a difficult one, Wonder Friend! 

It certainly is hard to do homework while at play practice! There are so many cool things going on! 

Trying to complete your math homework right after you get home and have had dinner might be the best bet. Good luck! 

Ellen The Happy Girl!

We're so glad you liked it, Ellen The Happy Girl!

We like your enthusiasm, tyonna! 

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Student! That's an interesting concept. 

clever-name-or-smth

There's nothing wrong with being a big ol' nerd. 

And, there's nothing wrong with Invater Zim fanfic, either. 

so is checking these comments like a full time job or

Here at Wonderopolis, we do have specific people that check comments, but we do much more than that! 

There's a specific amount of time during a school day--and that doesn't make a lot of time for 'independent practice' of skills learned during the school day. 

Also, it's a GREAT idea to share your homework with your parents! 

Thanks for sharing your opinon, Joe! 

That's a great question, Brady. You should post it in the Wonder Bank . 

You're welcome, Chase!

That's great, loren! Care to share your fun homework hack?

wegsfvbydgfhnry

Hey, Wonder Friend. We're sorry you think homework is a waste of time. Practice is really important when learning new things. 

Hi sofia! 

What's your secret for making homework fun? I'm sure a lot of our Wonder Friends would like to try it out! 

That seems to be a common theme, ashley. 

We're sorry to hear that, harrison. 

wonder i already know...

Yikes! Well, it's important to have good time management skills so you can get everything turned in! 

Thanks for sharing your opinion, Harold! 

Thanks for sharing your thought process, Tyrannie! 

That's great, Xavier-B-! Make homework interesting! 

Hey, Adriana! We have a wonderful Wonder team that works together to accomplish all the Wonderopolis tasks. There is a core group of three currently, but we have people that pop in occasionally to help with things. 

my next wonder is how do you know if a boy likes you because i just got a boyfriend and hes really shy.

Make sure you submit it to the Wonder Bank !

That's legit. We totally understand your position!

CaptainObvious

Thanks bunches, CaptainObvious! 

Lil’ Mousey

Hey, Lil' Mousey--

We have some Wonders about cheese already. Check them out !

I know right! ☺️

EverestAndEvetheWarriors

Thanks, E&E!

Thanks for sharing your opinion, kev.

Thanks for sharing your opinion, Giani.

Jeez bro. It’s boring. All you do is sit there and fill out worksheets and assignments. We already do work at school. Why do we need work at home? It’s boring,bro,it’s boring. That’s why nobody likes it.

Thanks for sharing your opinion, Elvisssss. 

None taken. ? And, we're glad you respect homework because it's a great way to practice skills. 

It's Crule??

...but necessary!

Video gamessssss??????????????

Great reward for finishing homework! 

Video games DUH! I have one! Would you rather eat only fried chicken for the rest of your life or suffer from homework every single day for the rest of your life. Plz reply ??

ChickenFries

I would pick fried chicken because I’m a HUGE chicken fan. Not a homework fan. One time my teacher gave the class a big report that day and said it was due the next day. It wasn’t fair because I had to miss football practice because I had to work on it.

We're sorry that happened, ChickenFries.

Homework. Definitely. 

Wonder Friend

I love homework it the best i love not being able to play with my friends and doing my homework call me i will do your homework. [redacted]

It may, Catlyn, but practice makes perfect! 

Homeworkistheworst

Catlyn smith

Homework is a way for students to practice skills. It takes, on average, doing something right 18 times before it becomes a habit. So, writing a sentence with subject/verb agreement 18 times(ish), means you have mastered that skill. 

Until you get to more complicated stuff.

The sources are listed in the left column of the WONDER, ZERVA. 

Homework is the independent practice of a skill teachers need to make sure students can perform on their own. 

We're sorry homework stresses some people out. That's a great subject to bring up with parents and teachers, though! 

We're sorry to hear that, Carter. 

Isohatehomework

I'm sure a lot of our Wonder Friends share your opinion! ?

Oh,ha ha ha.???I am not a so called Wonder Friend. Are you a robot?!

? Everyone who comes to Wonderopolis are our Wonder Friends! 

We're not robots. We actually respond to most of the comments made. 

your not one person, your multiple people who are in the "Wonderopolis" company

Oh...sorry about that...I didn’t mean to say that. I’m sorry x100 ☹️????

It's ?

We think you're not alone in that emotion!

Jack McCrea

OMG YOU ARE SO RIGHT. But to be honest I just hate it

Mason Smolen

That's WONDERful, Mason!

AnonymousPerson31

We're glad we could be of assistance, Wonder Friend!

Maybe this WONDER about expectations will help. 

Hi, Lulia! It's important to finish your homework so that you can continue to learn about topics discussed in school! What is your favorite subject in school? 

Hi, caileigh! Yeah, though homework isn't the most fun activity after school, it will help you learn more about what you learned in school!

steve savie

Hi, Sara! We're sorry to hear that you're having homework problems ?.

All homework does is make students stressed out and make less time for them to be with their family and relax

no homework is based on the work we do in school and you will get better at your work.

We're so sorry to hear that you're having a tough time with homework, Wonder Friend ?.  Homework is important, and time with family and relaxing is important, too!

AngryPerson

u think all of our parents help with our homework? some of them dont, they see this as a "student's responsibility" and let them be and btw, if you delete this comment, it is easy to see that you don't want any negative comments about this and want to eliminate the people who think homework is bad

Hi, AngryPerson.  We're so sorry that you're angry.  We do want to hear our Wonder Friends' thoughts here at Wonderopolis.  If you're having trouble with your homework, we hope that you ask your teacher for help.  We appreciate your feedback!

This is so true! In my house, homework never connected me to my parents, because like work at school, I saw it as a test of what I could do individually. Thus, as all my time was taken up by homework, I almost never spent time with my parents. Now I feel isolated from them.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Kay.  We definitely recommend spending quality time with family, and we hope that learning together is a way to connect with your family!

Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Mii.  And we absolutely agree that spending quality time with your family is very important!!  Perhaps you could tell your family fun facts that you learned at school?  Learning new information is also very important, and it is awesome to share the information you learn with your family so that you can learn together! ?

Homework is both emotionally and mentally hurtful...Physically too-

We're sorry to hear that you are having trouble with your homework, Wonder Friend!  We hope that you ask your teacher if you have any specific questions about your homework.

Hi, Llamaz! We hope that you are getting plenty of sleep, too! Check out  Wonder 1775: Do Kids Need More Sleep Than Adults?   Also, thanks for sharing your thoughts!

Thanks for asking, rather! We ask that Wonderopolis be listed as the author.  Also, since we do not list the publish date for our Wonders of the Day, you may put the date you accessed this page for information.  The following is how you would cite this page:

"Why Do We Have Homework?"  Wonderopolis.    https://www.wonderopolis.org/wonder/why-do-we-have-homework .  Accessed 25 Apr. 2018.

Hang in there, Louie! It sounds like you're working really hard on your homework and essays, which is awesome!!

Louie ramirez

We appreciate you sharing your thoughts with us, Louie.   We know that homework takes a lot of work, but it's also helping you learn and Wonder!

Hi, Louie! What are you writing about in your essay?

Hi, Clara! We have MANY Wonders on these topics!! Our  Explore Wonders tab contains over 2,100 Wonders, and if you scroll down on this page, you can search for Wonders by topics that you're interested in! Have fun WONDERing, Clara!

We're sorry to hear that you are having a hard time with your homework, Ben, but we think that you are doing a great job and working hard! Keep up the great work!!

Playing games is fun, but make sure you make time for your homework, too, Mitchell! Once you finish your the homework, you should check out   Wonder 1732: How Are Video Games Made?  ?

Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Benicio.  Though the pros of homework are the focus of this Wonder, the second to last paragraph does list some potential cons:

"Despite these benefits found by researchers, the topics of who should receive homework and how much homework are hotly debated among educators and researchers. In  one study , researchers found that academic gains from homework increased as grade level increased, suggesting homework is more beneficial for older students. Some researchers have found that too much homework can lower or cancel its benefits and become  counterproductive , because students become burned out."

Hi, kody! We're glad that you're WONDERing with us!

We love hearing that, Jordan!! Thanks for letting us know, and thanks for WONDERing with us!

Thanks for WONDERing with us, Miles!

Hi, Ameir! It looks like you've really done some research on the subject! 

Hi, ameir!! If you're having trouble with your homework, you may want to discuss specific questions you're having with your teacher.  What is your favorite subject in school?

math and science are my favorite

Those subjects are very interesting!! Have you seen our  Math and  Science Wonders?

We're sorry to hear that, UJEY, but we're glad you're WONDERing with us! 

It is important to take some time to rest, but homework is also important! We hope this Wonder helps explain why!

We're sorry to hear that, Gia, but we hope that this Wonder helps explain the many benefits of homework, too!

homework gets in the way of thing i want to do. I think teachers give homework just because they have nothing else to do. like isn't going to school enough work and it takes time away from my family especially my mom who cancer and i would want to spend more time with my mom. :(

We're so sorry to hear that, digeo! ?

dogs go moo

school is kid preson!

We're sorry you feel that way! We think school is an excellent place to Wonder!!!

why do dogs go moo

Thanks for WONDERing with us!

mkewigyjdfo8ueabsn ry7gtcbsh j

We're glad you liked this Wonder!! ?

Hi, Luke! Have you seen Wonder 1529:  Why Do Cats Purr?

Hi, mew mew! Have you seen our  Wonders about cats ?

jacob baldwin

Sorry, didn't catch that, jacob! Glad you're WONDERing with us though!!

Hello, Bob! We're always looking to hear more from our Wonder Friends!!  ?

Thanks for stopping by to Wonder with us!

dogs say moooooooooooooooooooo

Thanks for sharing your thoughts!!

Thanks for sharing! Sometimes it is difficult to balance homework and other activities.  What are some of your favorite things to do when you're not doing homework?

We're sorry you feel that way, CN Olson!! We're glad you're WONDERing with us, though!

Thanks for joining the conversation, davaeh!

im sorry for anyone that feels that way but homework is good for you

Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

Great points, john! We hope you will have some more free time soon!!  Thanks for WONDERing with us!!

We appreciate your feedback, jorge! 

Agreed aswell

Does your school give homework, bob? Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

xxxtentacion

Sometimes, unfortunately, it does ?. Homework also has benefits too, though! Thanks, gavin!

That certainly does add up the majority of the day!  The lessons we learn in school help us to grow up to be thoughtful and intelligent adults.  We do agree that everyone needs a break sometimes, though!  Hope you and our other friends get a few minutes to kick back and relax today!?

We should discontinue homework because some kids don’t do it or understand it, therefore kids start stressing and saying to there self I’m gonna get in trouble , I’m gonna get a bad grade and it basically leads in to this whole conflict .

Thanks for sharing, Liv!

Sorry you feel that way, Justin, but we're glad that you're WONDERing with us!!

Thank you bob, we should change our studies to something actually helpful.

We appreciate you sharing your thoughts, Bob.  Thanks for WONDERing with us!

Homework hater

Homework is a disease I think we need a intercontinental cure research lab for it

But, unfortunately, creating this research lab may require some homework! ? 

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Hi!  It's good to keep the conversation going about the amount of homework that students typically get.

Thanks for sharing that, Caden!  Have you been back to Mars since being born there?

Yes, I went there with him I will send you a postcard next time we go. I think Mars is wrecking his brain.

Kai's evil twin

My friend trolled me

? Be safe out there, Caden!

Must be a fun class! ?

Thanks for the feedback, Gyanve!  Great to hear from you! ?

Perhaps they also suggested some coping strategies, too?  

OOOOOOOOOOO

Not a roast

Hi again, Kai!  Actually, if you look toward the bottom of the Wonder, under "Sources" you'll see where we got our information.  We appreciate you checking up on us with a critical eye!  It's always good to be a little skeptical and ask for more research and data. You're a smart Wonder Friend!  We Wonder if you could do some research to find support for why schools SHOULDN'T have homework. We're curious to hear what you find!

www.Scholastic.com says that there is no evidence to say that homework benefits kids at all, and Washington Post says that homework on a national level is not related to academic success. Washington post also says that some lower income countries cultures normalize long periods of studying but it is uneffective, nd neotoday.org says that the link between assigned homework and academic achievement is drastically over inflated, What do you have to say about that?(sorry If I was a little harsh in my last two comments I was unhappy at the time) neotoday.org/2014/05/13/should-schools-be-done-with-homework) //www.washingtonpost.com/posteverything/wp/2015/09/02/homework-could-have-an-effect-on-kids-health-should-schools-ban-it

http://www.scholastic.com/browse/subarticle.jsp?id=2953

WOW!! You've really done some EXCELLENT research from some reputable sources, Kai!  Our Wonder Salute to you!  One thing to note: in the Washington Post article, they do make a distinction that heavy homework loads in elementary can be negative.  In higher grades, this might not be the case "Homework, in fact, is an important component of education for students in the middle and upper grades of schooling.".  It certainly raises a very good question which is we shouldn't assume homework is helping and adding more homework all the time seems to definitely not be helping.  It's a great question that deserves a lot more thought and research.  Thank you for WONDERing and researching, Kai! 

This might get moderated, but I am curious to see how how many people "talked" with me./?

How many people have responded to my comments

You would just have to look on this comment page and see who "replies" to your comment.  Does that help, Kai?

What do you mean, exactly?  We don't follow.

? Wow, tough review!  Well, research does support that extra practice helps.  We DO discuss the debate over how much homework and what kind.  Truthfully, homework is probably not going anywhere anytime soon, so we wanted to help show our Wonder Friends how it can be beneficial and how one can get the most out of it.  We appreciate hearing from you, Kai!

I'd agree with the fact that practice does help learning on a basic level of memory but, in experience as a student, I cannot say that homework could be considered "practice." I've had many-a-teacher that has given homework out and I've had to google search how to do most of it because I was never taught it in class. Homework is more of busy work in the way of doing hobbies, eating, sleeping, and a happy and healthy life style that could possibly be important in "the real world", as if this torture is as easy as petting a bunny. Homework CAN provide help in small, sparatic, doses. If you are bombarded with homework everyday, it really becomes more harmful than helpful.

Great thoughts, Jillian!  Really well said and we appreciate you taking the time to share that with us!  We wish more teachers made time to wonder with their class (and we are thankful for the great ones who do!).

jaime lannister

you couldn't be more right school is about seven hours every 5 days a week for about a year and we still get work to take home like school is for learning there needs to be time to separate school life from your life like you can't just do work all day and you also get homework when it's holiday and there are enough going on in childrens lives than homework so this page is bad no one needs homework i learn more from youtube videos than school and children get anxiety enough from life like puberty, family, growing older school is just boring and you need time to settle your mind because in british schools they work you forever and the teachers are tough.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Jaime!  Hang in there!

I hate homework we do work every day at school teachers know what is is like because they been through homework.Let me put it to you guys i know some people hate homework and some do not.Most teachers just overdo homework.

Good thoughts, Edrick.  Thanks for sharing and glad to have you WONDERing with us!

Do they write those essays in class or at home, Brielle? ?

they write the essays at home

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Yuguj!  Glad to have you WONDERing with us on this important topic!

I agree so much I am so scared of not doing my homework or my grade might go down and that really isn't fair for me and my peers so great point!!!

That's a great point, Anonymous!  In a perfect world, people would just do the work assigned and see the value in it.  Sadly, it's hard to do away with the consequences and still have full participation.  It's a challenging problem to try and solve, but we are glad you are WONDERing with us!

I think homework is a waste of time. it takes away from family time and exercise time.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Alisa! We think family time and exercise are important, too. The article did mention some reasons why homework has value, even if it doesn't always seem that way. Hang in there! It will all be worth it someday!

I am a very smart student with a brain to fit an adult, but even i get tired of homework. I have spent all day at school so I want a break. We don' need homework.

Yes, I agree and I too get tired of it. In my school they said that HW, was just the same lesson at home than at school. It is just a review. I am smart and don't study (LOL) and yet I have always gotten an A or a B in my tests (BTW, studying is considered homework for some reasons)

The struggle is real, Alisa. We do hope you get some time to give that super-smart brain a break! Thanks for using some of that brain power here with us at Wonderopolis!

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Kid77! Sometimes in life, the important things are not always the most fun. Some homework assignments might feel unnecessary but (as the article mentioned) there can be many functions of homework. At least in your case, if you learned the material well in class, it shouldn't take up as much time to complete at home. Sometimes, though, that extra practice can make the difference between knowing the information and truly mastering it. Hang in there, Kid77!

ethan (murphy)

If you are bullied, tell a teacher, if the teacher is the bully.... I honestly can’t help you there.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us, ethan. We're sorry it feels like you are being bullied by your teachers. Have you spoken with your school counselor or your parents? Perhaps they can help you resolve the issues you are facing.

Thanks for sharing your feedback with us, Alexia. We hope you'll keep exploring Wonders to find one you like!

Thank you for commenting, Boi. We hope you'll visit Wonderopolis again soon.

Thanks for joining the conversation, pretty456 and twanasia! We're glad you stopped by Wonderopolis!

you don't like homework?

Thanks for telling us how you feel, Isaac. We appreciate your feedback.

We're glad we could help with your homework, Pusheen! Since we do not list the publish date, standard MLA formatting says that it's OK to list the date you accessed the page for information. Check out the Purdue OWL website for more guidance.

Thank you for WONDERing with us, Isaac! We hope you'll take a look at Wonder #1534. We think it's right up your alley! ?

Certainly, Liesel! Thank you for asking. We ask that Wonderopolis be listed as the author of this Wonder of the Day. Since we do not list the publish date, you may use the date you accessed this webpage for information (such as November 27). Cheers, Wonder Friend!

We're glad you found this Wonder helpful, sonice! There are both advantages and disadvantages to homework and sometimes those points are contrary to each other. This happens when there are different studies performed by different researchers. Sometimes the results contradict other studies.

I used this source for a case study that I am conducting on homework. I was wondering if I could know who wrote the source and when it was published. If I am allowed to have this information, please respond. Thank you.

Thank you for using Wonderopolis for your homework, Liesel! Please see our response above. ?

I know the heather

Thanks for joining the discussion, D. We're glad you visited Wonderopolis.

We're glad this Wonder helped, suicune300, even if it didn't make you like homework any more! It's great that you're WONDERing! We hope you'll stop by again! :)

Hi, bill! We're not sure we understand your comment. Do you have homework about autism? If so, head over to Wonder #1346 to explore information about autism.

We're glad you joined the conversation, avery! We hope you liked reading this Wonder -- perhaps it helped you understand some of the advantages to homework. :)

We're glad you joined the discussion, Bob. Perhaps this Wonder helped to explain why homework is assigned to students. :)

Hi, amez! Sometimes it is helpful to take a break before starting your homework. Thinking can be tiring sometimes, but it's so important! :)

( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Thank you for sharing, Wonder Friend! :)

lies lies lies lies lies lies lies lies lies lies

We're sorry you feel this way, bob. Thanks for sharing your opinion. We always value hearing from our Wonder Friends! :)

Hi, Christian. We're sorry you don't agree with this Wonder. We encourage you to also explore the Wonder Sources listed. Thanks for stopping by! :)

i hate homework

Thank you for sharing your opinion, yazzie! We hope this Wonder helped you to understand some of the advantages to homework, along with some of the disadvantages. :)

i really like this article, got an A+ on my report. THANKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Great job, Wonder Friend! Keep up the GREAT work and always keep WONDERing! :)

Hi, Wonder Friend! We appreciate you sharing your opinion about homework! Thanks for WONDERing with us! :)

We appreciate you sharing your opinion about homework, nathan! Try to think about all the extra practice! :)

hey homework is good for your brain and help you to get smarter

Thanks for sharing your opinion, elroi! 

Great question, tyler! If we know who submitted the question the author is listed up by the "Listen" button. This Wonder does not have an author listed. Sometimes people submit anonymous questions! Thanks for stopping by! :)

Riley & Anna

Thanks for the KIND words, Riley & Anna! We think our Wonder Friends are pretty AWESOME, too! We encourage you to submit your question to the Wonder Bank! :)

We appreciate you sharing your thoughts about homework, bob! We're glad you think it is helpful! :)

I hate homework

Thanks for joining the discussion and sharing your opinion, Brendon! We're glad you're WONDERing! :)

Thanks for sharing your opinion, Wonder Friend! Spending time with your parents is important, too! We encourage you to share this Wonder with them! :)

Antonio yet King

We appreciate you sharing your thoughts about this Wonder topic, too! Thanks for joining the conversation, Antonio! :)

Thanks for joining the conversation, Caroline! We appreciate you sharing your thoughts! :)

Hi, Makayla! We appreciate you sharing your thoughts about this important topic! Thanks for visiting Wonderopolis! :)

Welcome, Dionna! Thanks for sharing your opinion about homework! We're glad you're WONDERing! :)

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Bob! We understand that sometimes it is difficult, but try to also think about the positive aspects mentioned in the Wonder! :)

I notice that none of the evidence presented in the article is backed by any tests or studies to show that the claims presented in the wonder is true.

Oh wow.  You got us, Unknown.  Not a fan of homework, we are guessing?  Did you try clicking any of our sources links?  We appreciate you keeping us on our toes!

Hi, d! We understand it's important for you to have free time, too! We hope you still have time for that! :)

I think you are wrong I have to stay up all night to do my homework then at school I always fall asleep :(

We're sorry to hear that, Jack. Thanks for sharing your connection. Maybe you can talk to your teacher about that. :)

Thanks for sharing your opinion about homework, avry! We appreciate you joining the discussion! Hopefully you learned some of the positive aspects of homework! :)

Thanks for sharing your opinion, Bumble Bee! We understand that there are many different opinions out there about homework. We tried to address both sides, while also stating the positive aspects of homework. We hope you understand and Wonder with us again soon! :)

wonderopolis is a lier

no your article is mostly one sided. the side being that homework is good

Thanks for sharing your opinion, Wonder Friend. You can read more about the advantages and disadvantages of homework by reviewing the Wonder Sources we provided above.

Hi, Kayla! Thanks for sharing your thoughts! We're sorry to hear homework is so stressful. We hope things get better! Stay positive! :)

That's GREAT, Emma! We love your enthusiasm for learning! Keep up the GREAT work! :)

Trinity Goebel

Hi, Trinity! Thanks for sharing your thoughts about homework. Sometimes it can be frustrating if you have a lot, but try to stay positive! Keep up the GREAT work! :)

homework is stupid why why do we have it mmmmmmm i hate it..

Hi, tyson! Thank you for sharing your thoughts. We're sure there is some good in homework -- just take a look at the Wonder text above to see! :)

A lot of students don't like homework, ..., and it can be challenging to keep up with homework with everything else going on in your life. The important thing is to do your best, because there are lots of benefits to homework even if it doesn't always seem like it. If homework is a regular problem, talk to your teacher or fellow classmates for help. We're glad you took the time to share your thoughts about homework.

To answer your question, Im pretty sure homework is NOT a law, but pretty much every teacher gives you homework. Depending on what grade you are in, usually grades 1-3 get 0-30 minutes of homework each night. grades 4-6 get 0-2 hour of homework each night, and Grades 7 and 8 get 30-3 hours of homework each night..... all of this depends on the student and how he or she learns. but this is what the average student gives to do homework in Elementary school

Thanks for the GREAT explanation, emma! You're right in that there are recommended amounts, but no particular law. We appreciate your comment! :)

Thanks for visiting Wonderopolis for your homework, Maya! Homework is not a law. It depends how much homework you have as to how long it takes. Also, some assignments, like projects, take longer than smaller assignments. We hope this Wonder was helpful in answering your questions! :)

Hi, Maya! No, homework is not a law. It is up to your teacher or school. We hope this Wonder helped explain how homework is helpful for practicing what you learned. We understand it is a pain sometimes, but we hope you understand! Thanks for WONDERing with us! :)

TENNIS is awesome

Hello, TENNIS is awesome! The WONDER mentions some reasons why homework is important, sch as extra practice. We appreciate your comment and you sharing your opinion with us! :)

One opinion

Wonderopolis

We appreciate you sharing your thoughts, One opinion! Thanks for WONDERing with us! :)

Hello, hahahah! Homework can be time consuming sometimes, but keep thinking positively about all you're learning! :)

We appreciate you sharing your opinion, Goopdi! Sometimes it may seem like a chore, but it is always a good idea to practice what you learned at school. WONDERing is a WONDERful way to learn and have fun at the same time! :)

I believe homework is a waste of time!!

Shae Skipper

Hello, Shae Skipper! You make some great points to support your opinion. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with your WONDER friends! :)

Why do we wonder?

That's a GREAT question, Alistair! WONDERing is a GREAT way to learn new things, have fun, and explore the world around us! :)

connor essary

Hello WONDER Friend, connor essary! We are glad you enjoyed this WONDER. Here is another WONDER about homework. Wonder #491: Do Dogs Really Eat Homework? Enjoy! :)

JoHaunn Mainwood

Hi JoHaunn Mainwood! Thanks for commenting on this WONDER! We appreciate our WONDER friends sharing their thoughts! :)

Welcome, Bob! Thanks for WONDERing with us and commenting on the WONDER! :)

McDonald's

Hi McDonald's! Thanks for commenting on this WONDER. We hate to hear you hate homework. Homework is another way to learn and show others what you know. Check back for more WONDERS! :)

Hi Jaheim! We hate to hear you don't enjoy your homework. Homework is a great way to show your family and friends what you are doing in school. Keep working hard and WONDERing!

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Sara! You do learn more from doing your homework! Keep up the great work! :)

Hi David! We hate to hear you don't like homework because it helps us practice what we learned in school. Homework is different everywhere you go. Keep working hard! :)

Hello, Nicole! We hate to hear you hate homework. Homework can be great practice for what you are learning in school. We know you are working hard and doing a great job. Keep it up! :)

keandre campbell

Welcome to WONDERopolis, keandre campbell! There are over 1,000 WONDERS for you to explore. Thanks for WONDERing with us. Check back every day for more WONDERful WONDERS! :)

That's great, Crazy! Keep up the great WONDERing! :)

Wonder frog

It is not school is amazing!!!

Welcome, Wonder frog! We hate to hear you don't enjoy school. School is a great opportunity to WONDER and learn new things. Then you can share your new knowledge with your friends. Try checking out Wonder #1268: Why Was School Created? Always keep WONDERing! :)

I agree totally!

We appreciate you sharing your opinion about homework, too, Kaytlyn! Thanks for stopping by! :)

We appreciate you joining the discussion, Trinity! We hope this Wonder showed a few reasons why homework can be beneficial! :)

Hello, Jordan! Homework can be great practice. It helps you continue learning! :)

Lukas Wozencraft

That's funny, Lukas Wozencraft! What do you think it will be about? Be sure to check back tomorrow! :)

Jahkeya from DE

Hello WONDER friend, Jahkeya from DE! What would our world be like if dinosaurs weren't extint? Hmmm...? Something to WONDER about! :)

We are glad you enjoyed the video, Jasahn! Homework is very helpful most of the time! Thanks for WONDERing with us! :)

We are glad you liked the video, Makayla! It made us laugh, too! Check out Wonder #1285: What Was Before Dinosaurs? Happy WONDERing! :)

Juilo from DE

Hello, Juilo from DE! Cheer up! Homework helps you practice what you are learning. After all, they say practice makes perfect! If you enjoy video games, check out Wonder #1344: Who Invented the First Video Game? Have fun WONDERing! :)

Autumn from Delaware

Welcome, Autumn from Delaware! The video was silly! Here is another WONDER about dinosaurs! Wonder #275: How Do Dinosaurs Get Their Names? Enjoy! :)

Thanks for WONDERing with us, Sara! Check back everyday for more WONDERful WONDERS!:)

Hello, Gabriel! It sounds like many of our WONDER friends agree with you about the video. We all thought it was funny too! Thanks for commenting! :)

Julian from Delaware

Welcome, Julian from Delaware! You stay busy! That shows true commitment and hard work! :)

Hi Geyonni! We are glad you liked the video. Can you imagine seeing a dinosaur at school? Check out Wonder #491: Do Dogs Really Eat Homework? Happy WONDERing! :)

christina from De

I agree!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks for commenting, christina from De! You're right, that kids also need time to spend with their family. As the WONDER tells us, it is important to not have too much homework. That leaves time for both! :)

Khyan from DE

Thanks for sharing, Khyan from DE! Homework is helpful practice and playing with your friends is important, too. Hopefully you can find a happy medium between the two! :)

Kainat from Delware

Not really... :(

im just here because of espark, of all you people you domt kn9w what espark is, well its not homework its just were on oir school ipads amd we do this app that novody wants to do and we have (quests) and are a bunch of activities put togethor.

That could be a very fun way to learn and WONDER, Mitchell! 

William Weispfenning

Homework is so fun (not) homework = ?

lol really william

Thanks for joining the discussion, William. There are pros and cons to homework and we hope this Wonder helped you learn about them. ?

We appreciate you sharing your thoughts, Trinity! Thanks for visiting Wonderopolis! :)

That's right, Kainat from Delware! Homework is great practice! Keep up the great WONDERing! :)

We are undergoing some spring clearing site maintenance and need to temporarily disable the commenting feature. Thanks for your patience.

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Homework plays an important role for parents by creating a bridge between home and what?

• a school Correct!
• b parents Not Quite!
• c coaches Not Quite!
• d students Not Quite!

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Which of the following is NOT an important life skill that can be enhanced via homework?

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• b prioritization Not Quite!
• c organization Not Quite!
• d photosynthesis Correct!

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How much is too much homework per night?

• a 30 minutes Not Quite!
• b 1 hour Not Quite!
• c 2 hours Not Quite!
• d It depends upon a variety of complex factors. Correct!

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Why Do Kids Hate School? Uncovering the Truth

Kids often dislike school due to a lack of engagement or relevance to their interests. Discomfort from social pressures can also contribute to their aversion.

School is supposed to be a temple of learning and a place where future dreams take shape, but for some children, it represents boredom, anxiety, and a one-size-fits-all approach that stifles individuality. Parents and teachers frequently scratch their heads, wondering why the excitement of education fades so quickly for their young learners.

Numerous factors may be at play, including rigid curriculums, uninspiring teaching methods, or environments that feel unwelcoming or unsafe. Given the dynamic nature of the modern world, education systems often struggle to keep up, potentially leading to a disconnect between what students are taught and what they feel is applicable to real life. As a result, finding ways to make school more captivating and personally meaningful stands at the heart of addressing children’s disdain for formal education.

Exploring School Aversion In Kids

Exploring School Aversion in Kids  delves into the complex web of emotions and reasons that lead some children to dread the thought of attending school. Understanding this adverseness is crucial, not only for caregivers and educators who strive to foster a nurturing learning environment but also for society as a whole as we aim to guide the next generation towards a lifelong journey of knowledge and growth.

Understanding The Aversion From A Child’s Perspective

Imagine stepping into a world where the rules seem complex, the environment feels intimidating, and the pressure to perform is overwhelming. This is the reality for many children facing school aversion. Through a child’s eyes, the classrooms, hallways, and schoolyards can transform into challenging arenas and they grapple with various aspects:

• Social dynamics  can include bullying or peer pressure.
• Academic demands  may feel insurmountable, especially if there are underlying learning difficulties.
• Lack of engagement  due to teaching methods or curriculum that don’t align with their interests or learning styles.

Core Factors Triggering Dislike For School

Several factors coalesce to form a child’s negative perception of school. These  core elements  can vary vastly from one individual to another but typically encompass:

Comparing The Emotional Versus Rational Reasons

Emotional reasons  for school aversion are deeply rooted in how a child feels. These could include:

• Fear of failure or criticism
• Feeling misunderstood by teachers or peers
• Low self-esteem or confidence

Rational reasons , on the other hand, could include tangible issues such as:

• Perceived irrelevance of certain subjects to real-life goals
• Observed disconnect with traditional teaching methods in a digital age
• Concerns over the practicality of homework

Distinguishing between these emotional and rational reasons can help in tailoring approaches for addressing school aversion. A combined effort from parents, educators, and the children themselves is key to reshaping their school experience into one of positivity and enthusiasm for learning.

Why Kids Feel School Is Imprisoning

For many children, school can feel less like a place of learning and more like a cell of confinement. This perception is not just about being away from home, but about an array of factors that contribute to a sense of being shackled by the very institution meant to liberate minds. We’ll delve into the key reasons many students equate school to prison, uncovering the parallels between structure and freedom, compulsory subjects, and the uniformity that suppresses individuality.

The Structure And Strict Schedules Compared To Freedom At Home

It’s a stark contrast for students:  the free-flowing, carefree environment of home life against the rigid, unbending schedule of a school day. Each hour is micromanaged, from bell to bell, with little room for spontaneity or choice. This strict regime can leave them feeling as if they’ve traded their autonomy for an attendance sheet.

• Class transitions  dictated by the minute
• Structured lunchtimes  that often don’t align with their hunger cues
• Limited free periods  or recess, restricting unstructured social interaction and play.

The rigidity can be draining, with the vibrancy of a child’s day dimmed by the monochrome predictability of school life.

Mandatory Subjects That May Not Align With Interests

School curriculums have a one-size-fits-all approach, requiring students to take courses in subjects that fail to ignite their passion or curiosity.  Not every child is wired to love  or even tolerate subjects like advanced mathematics or ancient history, yet they find themselves sitting through these classes, disengaged and discouraged.

• Lack of relevance  to their lives or future ambitions
• Mandatory courses  leave little room for electives that might actually engage them
• Testing and grading pressures  even in subjects they find uninspiring or exceedingly challenging

This forced academic march often leads to a disconnection from the innate joy of learning, as education becomes a game of endurance rather than exploration.

Uniforms And Rules Restricting Self-expression

The wearing of uniforms  can feel like the erasure of a child’s personal identity, forcing them to adopt a homogenous look that supports conformity over individuality. School rules further  clamp down on their freedom of expression , dictating everything from hairstyles and jewelry to the type of shoes they can wear. For many kids, school becomes an environment where uniqueness is squashed rather than celebrated, adding to the sensation of being in a restrictive, controlling space.

When combined, these restrictions form a straitjacket of sorts, binding students to a form that does not necessarily fit their true selves.

Personal Struggles Within The Classroom

Personal Struggles within the Classroom  play a significant role in shaping children’s attitudes toward education. A classroom should ideally be a haven of learning and discovery, but for many students, it becomes a battleground filled with various personal challenges. These struggles can stem from academic pressures to social dynamics, often leading to a negative school experience. Today, let’s delve into the factors that contribute to why some kids develop a dislike for school, starting with a look at personal adversities they face in their educational journey.

Academic Pressure And Fear Of Failure

The high demands of academic excellence weigh heavily on students. The pressure to perform well in  exams ,  standardized tests , and  classroom assignments  can lead to an overwhelming fear of failure. This fear often results in:

• Stress  and  anxiety  about grades and future prospects.
• Decreased motivation and interest in learning.
• Procrastination  and avoidance of school-related tasks.

When students are primarily evaluated on their academic performance, the joy of learning is overshadowed by the dread of not meeting expectations, turning school into a source of distress rather than enlightenment.

Social Anxieties And Struggles With Peers

The classroom is not just a center for academic growth but also social interaction. For some, it can be a  minefield of social anxieties . These anxieties manifest themselves in several ways:

As a result, students might find it challenging to focus on academics when consumed by the need to navigate complex social waters that seem fraught with peril.

Unidentified Learning Disabilities Or Challenges

Learning disabilities or challenges often go  unrecognized  in classroom settings. Without proper identification and support, affected students might struggle with:

• Understanding and keeping up with the curriculum.
• Engagement in classroom activities that don’t cater to their learning styles.
• Feel alienated due to their difficulties.

Challenges such as  dyslexia ,  ADHD , or  autism spectrum disorder  require specific educational approaches. When these needs are not met, school can become a source of  frustration  and ultimately, resentment.

Impact Of Modern Teaching Methods

The way children are taught in schools has undergone significant changes over the years. With the evolution of modern teaching methods, education aims to be more engaging, inclusive, and adaptive to the diverse needs of students. Despite these intentions, a rising concern has been noted regarding how modern pedagogy may potentially contribute to kids developing an aversion to school. This section dives into the nuances of current educational practices and how they might inadvertently be pushing students away.

How Current Pedagogy Might Disengage Students

Today’s teaching strategies strive for innovation and effectiveness, but they may not resonate with every learner. Schools often implement structured curriculums focused on standardized testing which can stifle creativity and discourage critical thinking.  Students, feeling constrained by this rigidity, may become disengaged . Additionally, the lack of personalized attention in overcrowded classrooms can leave some children feeling overlooked, further diminishing their enthusiasm for learning.

The Discrepancy Between Interactive Technology At Home And Traditional Methods At School

Children today are digital natives, growing up in a world filled with interactive and immersive technology. At home, they engage with gadgets and platforms that provide instant responses and reward mechanisms. This engagement  contrasts sharply with the passive and one-dimensional teaching styles often found in schools . The gap between the dynamic digital environment at home and the static traditional classroom can make school seem dull and uninteresting in comparison.

Classroom Dynamics And Teacher-student Relationships

Modern teaching environments can be complex, where classroom dynamics and the quality of teacher-student relationships play vital roles. Teachers, challenged with larger class sizes, may struggle to connect with each student individually. This can lead to a weak teacher-student relationship,  compromising the student’s experience and engagement . A positive bond between teacher and student is crucial since it can foster a love of learning and encourage students to participate actively in their education.

Home Environment And Parental Attitudes

One of the less discussed but equally significant factors in why kids may develop a distaste for school lies within the confines of their home environment and the attitudes of their parents towards education. The vibe at home and the subtle, and sometimes not-so-subtle, messages that parents communicate about school play crucial roles in shaping a child’s educational experience. Let’s delve into how parental pressure and the ripple effect of siblings’ experiences can affect a child’s school life.

The Role Of Parental Pressure And Expectations

Parental pressure  to excel academically can sometimes backfire, leading to stress, anxiety, and negative school experiences for children. While encouragement and support are essential,  excessive expectations  can create a fear of failure and a feeling of constant dissatisfaction, which could translate into a hatred for the scholarly environment. Kids can sense when their parents are not just expecting them to do well but are overly invested in the outcome. This pressure can be manifested in:

• Over-scheduling:  Packing a student’s day with back-to-back activities, leaving little time for rest.
• Excessive tutoring:  Enrolling children in numerous enrichment programs regardless of their interests or needs.
• Comparative feedback:  Highlighting siblings’ or peers’ accomplishments in an unhealthy manner.

Such environments often lead children to associate learning with stress, rather than a natural curiosity and the joy of discovery.

Influences Of Siblings Or Family Members’ School Experiences

Children are highly perceptive to the stories and experiences that  siblings and other family members  share about school. Negative narratives can contribute to preconceived notions and anxiety about what lies ahead in their own educational journey. If a sibling has struggled academically or disliked school, it might set a precedent for others in the family. Key influences include:

When siblings have contrasting experiences, it’s critical for parents to individualize their support and maintain a positive outlook about school to foster a healthier learning environment for each child.

Societal Expectations And Stereotypes

‘Societal Expectations and Stereotypes’  often play a crucial role in shaping how kids perceive school. From a very young age, children are exposed to various societal norms that may not align with their personal experiences or interests. These cultural forces can transform the concept of education into a monolithic expectation instead of a personalized journey, leading to a deep-seated aversion to the entire school experience. Let’s delve into how specific societal influences, such as media portrayal and peer dynamics, contribute to this phenomenon.

Media Portrayal Of School And Its Impact On Mindset

In today’s digital age,  media portrayal of school  significantly influences kids’ attitudes toward education. Television shows, movies, and social media often depict school life as a burden, filled with homework overload, negative teacher-student interactions, and an endless cycle of tests and grades. This skewed representation can deeply affect students’ mindsets, making them believe that school is little more than a chore. By downplaying the positive aspects of education, such as learning new skills or forming friendships, the media can create a bias that sees school as an institution to endure rather than enjoy.

Peer Influence And The ‘Cool’ Factor Of Disliking School

Additionally, the impact of  peer influence  cannot be underestimated in how children perceive school. The notion that it’s ‘cool’ to dislike school can spread through social circles, making it difficult for students who might enjoy learning to openly express their enthusiasm. The pressure to conform to this collective mindset can encourage kids to adopt a negative view of education to fit in with their peers. This can lead to an unnecessary and harmful stigma surrounding the appreciation of knowledge and the joy of learning.

Finding The Root: Why Do Kids Hate School?

The echoing refrain of “I hate school!” from children across the globe suggests a disconnect between youthful energy and the educational system designed to serve it. However, this disconnect is not an unsolvable puzzle. By digging deeper into the underlying reasons for this school aversion, educators and parents can find effective strategies to rekindle a love for learning in even the most reluctant students.

Methods Of Assessing And Addressing Individual Student Needs

Understanding the unique needs of each student stands at the forefront of transforming their educational experience.  Diverse learning styles , capabilities, and interests  require a personalized approach to education that traditional teaching methods may overlook.

• Surveys and questionnaires : Tools to capture student feedback regarding teaching styles, subjects, and classroom dynamics.
• One-on-one meetings : Personal interaction to understand individual challenges and aspirations.
• Performance analytics : Monitoring academic data to identify areas where students excel or struggle.

Assessments provide the insight necessary to tailor educational content, thus fostering an  inclusive and engaging  learning experience that aligns with individual strengths and weaknesses. When students feel understood and supported, their natural curiosity flourishes, transforming erstwhile dreary school days into compelling journeys of discovery.

The Importance Of Adapting The Learning Environment

The ambiance of a learning environment can have a profound impact on a student’s attitude towards school. An environment that stimulates curiosity and encourages creativity is far more likely to engage students than one that feels restrictive and monotonous.

By incorporating elements such as  flexible seating, access to technology, and collaborative learning spaces , educators can create a dynamic environment that is more conducive to active learning and participation. This approach respects diverse learning preferences and promotes a culture of mutual respect and shared responsibility for educational success. The result? A classroom that students are excited to enter every day.

Creating An Inclusive Academic Atmosphere

An inclusive academic atmosphere is foundational to transforming the sentiment of dread that many kids associate with school into one of genuine excitement and belonging. By prioritizing a learning environment where every student feels valued and supported, we can tackle the all-too-common question:  Why do kids hate school?  Such an atmosphere doesn’t solely benefit those who are struggling; it elevates the educational experience for all students, creating a ripple effect of positivity and engagement. Cultivating this environment is not just the responsibility of the educators, but also of the schools’ broader frameworks and policies.

Strategies For Teachers To Make Learning More Engaging

To ensure that students are not only present but actively participating and absorbing knowledge, teachers can embrace several strategies:

• Interactive Lessons:  Incorporate technology and hands-on activities to create a dynamic learning experience.
• Real-World Applications:  Show students the relevance of what they learn by connecting lessons to real-life scenarios.
• Student Choice:  Empower students by offering choices in their learning process and assignments.
• Collaborative Projects:  Foster teamwork and communication skills through group work and peer-to-peer learning.
• Diverse Materials:  Use a variety of teaching aids, such as videos, games, and visual aids, to cater to different learning styles.

By integrating these strategies, teachers can spark curiosity, making the learning journey an adventure rather than a forced march.

How Schools Can Foster A Culture Of Enthusiasm And Acceptance

Schools play a pivotal role in shaping a culture that celebrates diversity and fosters a love for learning. To embed this culture:

• Embrace Diversity:  Celebrate the differences among students and include various cultural perspectives in the curriculum.
• Inclusive Policies:  Develop policies that prevent discrimination and bullying, ensuring a safe space for all students.
• Professional Development:  Offer continuous training for teachers to improve their inclusive education practices.
• Community Engagement:  Involve parents and community members to create a supportive network around students.
• Positive Reinforcement:  Recognize and reward students’ efforts and achievements, big or small, fostering a growth mindset.

When schools commit to these actions, students feel a sense of enthusiasm and acceptance that reverberates through their academic journey, fostering engagement, and reducing resistance to education.

Innovating Schools to Engage Students

Reimagining education  is no longer an option; it’s a necessity. Many students express a  lack of interest in traditional schooling  due to outdated teaching methods that fail to meet their dynamic needs and interests. By  innovating the educational landscape , we have the power to transform the dreaded question, “Why do kids hate school?” into “What do kids love about school?”

Examples Of Successful Education Systems That Kids Love

Some countries have  revolutionized the learning experience , proving that education can be both  enjoyable  and  effective . For instance:

• Finland  boasts a system with  less emphasis on standardized testing  and more on  collaborative, real-world learning .
• In  Singapore , a balance between  academic rigor and creative thinking  leads to high levels of student engagement and success.
• New Zealand’s  education approach encourages  problem-solving  and  critical thinking  through  project-based learning .

Incorporating Flexibility And Choice Into Curriculums

Tailoring education to individual student needs is essential for fostering  a love for learning . An adaptable curriculum can lead to:

These strategies empower students to take  ownership of their education , making the learning process more  relevant  and  fulfilling .

Encouraging A Lifelong Love For Learning

Often, when children express a distaste for school, it’s not a dislike for learning itself, but rather a reaction to the rigid structures that fail to engage their natural curiosity and interests. By  embracing strategies  that foster a  lifelong love for learning , both educators and parents can transform the traditional education experience into one that  excites and empowers  young minds.

Extracurricular Activities And Their Role In Education

Extracurricular activities  serve as a critical component in education, offering more than just a break from the regular curriculum. They provide a platform for students to explore interests, develop social skills, and gain new experiences that are essential for their  personal growth .

• Creative pursuits  such as music, art, and drama can spark a passion that academic lessons might not touch.
• Sports and physical activities  teach teamwork and perseverance.
• Clubs and societies  build leadership and organizational skills.

By participating in these activities, children learn to appreciate learning as a  continuous, enjoyable journey  rather than a destination marked by grades and exams.

Lifelong Benefits Of Shifting The Focus From Grades To Knowledge Acquisition

When the emphasis on education shifts from achieving high grades to acquiring knowledge, students start to see learning as a  valuable adventure . This approach encourages children to  broaden their horizons  and understand the relevance of education in their everyday lives.

With this shift, students are more likely to become  self-motivated learners , understanding that the pursuit of knowledge brings rewards that extend beyond the classroom—into their careers and overall quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions For Why Do Kids Hate School

Why do children dislike attending school.

Many kids find school uninteresting due to a lack of engagement. Traditional teaching methods may not cater to all learning styles, leading to a loss of interest.

What Causes Anxiety In Students About School?

School-induced anxiety can stem from academic pressures, social dynamics, and a fear of failure. The competitive environment often puts undue stress on students.

How Does School Impact A Child’s Mental Health?

School environments contribute significantly to a child’s mental health. Excessive homework, social pressures, and strict schedules can lead to stress and anxiety in students.

Can School Negatively Affect Learning Enthusiasm?

Yes, if a school doesn’t provide stimulating and interactive learning experiences, it can dampen a student’s natural curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.

Understanding why children dislike school is crucial for improvement. Addressing these issues can foster a love for learning. Engaging methods and compassionate support are key. Let’s transform the educational journey into a positive experience for every student. Together, we can make school a place where kids feel inspired and excited to learn.

With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, Jane brings a wealth of knowledge to Classroom Journey. She specializes in play-based learning and has a passion for inclusive education.

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What Students Are Saying About Why School Absences Have ‘Exploded’

Chronic absenteeism has increased in American schools since the Covid-19 pandemic. We asked teenagers what they make of the trend.

By The Learning Network

Nationally, an estimated 26 percent of public school students were considered chronically absent last school year, up from 15 percent before the Covid-19 pandemic, according to the most recent data, from 40 states and Washington, D.C., compiled by the conservative-leaning American Enterprise Institute.

The increases have occurred in districts big and small, and across income and race.

In “​ Why School Absences Have ‘Exploded’ Almost Everywhere ,” Sarah Mervosh and Francesca Paris explain:

The trends suggest that something fundamental has shifted in American childhood and the culture of school, in ways that may be long lasting. What was once a deeply ingrained habit — wake up, catch the bus, report to class — is now something far more tenuous. “Our relationship with school became optional,” said Katie Rosanbalm, a psychologist and associate research professor with the Center for Child and Family Policy at Duke University.

In a related Student Opinion question , we asked teenagers if that explanation resonated with them. Had their relationship to school — and school attendance — changed since the pandemic? And if so, what did they make of this shift?

Many students said, yes, school feels different now. Why? They pointed to remote learning changing their routines, an increase in anxiety and a decrease in motivation, the ease of making up schoolwork online and much more. Read their responses in full below.

Thank you to everyone who participated in the conversation on our writing prompts this week, including students from Central Bucks South High School in Warrington, Pa .; Norwood High School in Norwood, Mass.; and West Salem High School in Salem, Ore.

Please note: Student comments have been lightly edited for length, but otherwise appear as they were originally submitted.

Remote learning made students comfortable with missing school.

I believe that there are two main contributors to missing school too much. The first is online school. Myself included. It was very easy to simply leave the call after taking attendance and the teacher wouldn’t realize. Skipping class was easy and you could still get high grades. Transitioning back to real school, kids still held that true. They knew that they could miss school and still do well because covid taught that to them. The second reason is punishment. When you miss school, nothing happens. Class goes on and you have a little extra homework the next day but that’s it. What is the issue with missing class is a very common thought and it’s true. There is very minimal downside to missing school. When I had surgery, I missed a full week of school and within a day and a half, I was fully caught up again. Missing school has just become all too easy.

— Xavier, Pennsylvania

2020 was when our lives completely changed for the worst. We all had to stay inside and stay separate from each other. It was terrible, not being able to talk to my friends, and seeing the death toll on news constantly rise. However, after a year into the pandemic, I believe students realized the power they now had, including me. Now that I am a highschooler, I am going to admit that sometimes I would just mute my class and do whatever I wanted. School became shorter and easier to pass than ever before. That’s why when we all transitioned back into school, it was weird. We all still wanted to get through class the “easy way,” yet now that we were back, it wasn’t possible. This is why we started increasing our absences. The threat of absence has become weak, students are not as afraid to stay out of school. Furthermore the threat of being infected gave just one more reason to be out of school, for the sake of “preventing others from getting sick,” when in reality you feel fine. That is most likely why the absences in school had an exponential increase.

— Joshua, Pennsylvania

Students feel like expectations are lower than they were before the pandemic.

As a student in high school, I’ve come to realize the horrible state our attendance has been in since the pandemic. The reason can be simplified into one idea: laziness. We are lazy, willing to do only enough to get by, no more, no less. If a student doesn’t need to come to a class to obtain the grade they wish to achieve, then they won’t show up. Classes are not challenging enough to make students feel that they are worth going to. My mom is used to getting texts from me during the school day, begging to be excused from a class where “we’re doing nothing” or, “I already finished the work,” which is true, yet I abuse the opportunity to miss class because I know there will be no greater coincidence, I will still be getting an A. Due to my laziness, I would rather be at home taking a nap than sitting in a class with no greater impact on my life.

— Clara, Salem, Oregon

Since the pandemic, schooling has been focused on getting students caught up to where we’re supposed to be. Consequently, more allowances are made for students who don’t do assignments or don’t even show up. And with the switch to all online because of the pandemic, things have never shifted back. If a student misses a day or even a week, they can easily see what they missed and do it and submit it from home. With this option giving them the exact same grade as it would if they actually went to school, it’s no wonder why students are choosing to stay at home or skipping class. Additionally, the pandemic had heightened anxiety levels in students, specifically social anxiety, making them less likely to show up. The allowances made by the school district for students has created a space for students to be lazy and get away with it. This is fostering a negative impact on student work ethic not only now, but also in the future when this generation will be entering the work force.

— Emma, West Salem High School

The period of school shutdowns got students out of their school routines.

When I think back to virtual learning, my brain automatically goes to how stress free it was. I was in sixth grade when Covid first hit and going through a period of my life where I was extremely anxious at school. I believe that this break is exactly what I needed at the time. However, I do believe that in the long run, this online learning time period got a lot of people into the routine of not having a routine. A lot of people at my school would turn their camera off and fall asleep or go on their phones during online learning. I believe that there were times that I did this as well. I also think that this mindset carried through into the grades where I did not have an online/hybrid option. In eighth and ninth grade, I happened to stay home sick, go into school late, or leave early a lot. I think this is due to me not taking school as seriously due to the grading methods that were being used and how some of my teachers were not grading harshly. Now that I am a sophomore in high school, I think I have finally gotten back into the routine of actual schooling and not staying home sick unless I actually feel extremely sick.

— Madison, Pennsylvania

Before the pandemic and as I was growing up, I was the kind of student that wanted perfect attendance. For some odd reason, it made me feel like a better student if I never missed a day. This included turning my parents down when they offered me to go on trips, even though I was only in fourth grade and the work that I would have missed wouldn’t have made an impact in my academic career. However, after the pandemic school began to feel optional. We felt what it was like to fall out of the routine that going to school was and were never able to fully recover from it. I think that having experienced attending school from your bed, in your pajamas has played a major role in the current trend of students receiving more absences. For me, it made me realize that the “0” next to your number of absences didn’t matter as much as I had once thought. As a now highschooler, the school days are long and every class requires an abundance of work and undivided attention that whenever there is a substitute or not much going on, it is easy to decide to leave school. With senior year approaching, everything’s purpose is college and the fact that colleges aren’t able to see how many absences a student has when they apply, does play a role in the increasing number of absences.

— Ava, Miami Country Day School

Because assignments and other materials are online, students find they can keep up with their classes even if they don’t attend school.

Schools have adjusted rules so much that it makes school feel optional. Don’t want to attend class publicly? Take online classes. Don’t want to take “required” state testing? Opt out. Before, school seemed strict, we didn’t have the option to opt out of tests, we didn’t think of taking online school. Yet now, schools make it so easy to skip because everything is simply online. Our assignments, lectures, and teachers are all online. There are no longer requirements in school. What’s the point of attending if we can graduate without taking state testing or attending advisory — also a requirement, yet I no longer have an advisory because my counselors said I don’t need to take it to graduate. It’s confusing. Students have been enabled for over 4 years now since quarantine started. School doesn’t feel mandatory, it’s optional. I’m currently enrolled into 2 AP classes, so I try my best not to miss school. But it’s inevitable, I get sick, I have family situations or maybe I simply don’t feel like attending school. But I see people skip school like nothing. “I didn’t feel like going” is a constant statement I hear. Not many students have the motivation to attend, and simply don’t go because they have a comfort in their head that they can graduate while missing multiple days of school nearly everyday.

— Olivia, Salem, OR

Current absenteeism rates have significantly impacted my learning experience for the past few years. Since the pandemic, there has been a noticeable shift in the perception of the value of education and whether or not attendance is an important factor in a student’s academic success. In the years following 2020, I found myself struggling to make it to class everyday due to my new found efficiency of working at home with my computer. I felt that even if I was not in class personally, I would be able to keep up with my work easily as it was all online regardless. Due to this I would go on trips or skip class purely because I was under the impression that I would be able to continue achieving virtually.

— Ruby, RFHS

Before the pandemic, my attendance was stable but after the pandemic, my absences were piling on. It was difficult to get back in the rhythm of in person school when I had already done a whole year online, but now my attendance in school is definitely getting better. On the other hand, students in my school tend to miss school and it is a rare sight to see a full class. Some students go as far as showing up to class once a week and just do the classwork online. After the pandemic, schools went from paperwork to all online, which is a big reason why students miss all the time, knowing that school work can just be done at home. It has definitely affected students’ grades and goals in life, but hopefully in the future, absences can lower back down.

— Emily, Atrisco Heritage Academy High School

Going to school, and finding the motivation to have as good an attendance record as possible, now feels like more of a struggle.

As students, we’ve developed a comfort in staying in bed during school without having to get ourselves ready to go outside. We had the ability to wake up five minutes before “school” started to get on our zoom calls. Now, we must wake up an hour and a half prior, and make breakfast and pack lunch, before driving to school. The process is tenuous as the article states, but because we’ve accustomed to a different lifestyle, it just makes this one seem like so much more work. I, myself have noticed my difference in attendance after COVID-19. I used to be very obsessed with perfect attendance, but I had 11 absences in my sophomore year, right after coming back from online school. Nowadays, I’m more lenient on myself when it comes to taking a mental health day, because the process can be overwhelming. School is very important, so of course I try to always come in, but sometimes it can be hard. I have not noticed this trend in the world, as well as with myself until this article. It’s enlightening to know that this had not only an effect on me, but all over the country. Hopefully the rates of absenteeism will decrease as time goes on, because we are the future.

— Anisha, New Jersey

Before virtual learning, I never made much of a habit of not turning in work or showing up for class. It was so much easier then but since virtual learning, it had become incredibly difficult for me to focus as well as keep up motivation to continue school. It was easy to skip and nobody really said much about it so it easily became a bad habit. That bad habit eventually leaked into normal school as well and it always sounds so much easier to break out of than it actually is.

— Tayy, NRHS

As the average high school class skipper (only sometimes), in my personal experience, missing out on classes hasn’t really been because of mental health concerns, but more of just lasting laziness from the pandemic. I feel as though I was relatively hard working in middle school/elementary but after a few years off with only half effort assignments, I have grown to become more sluggish and reluctant when it comes to more advanced work while in school. And it makes the option of missing out on classes because of my own reluctance a lot more appealing.

— Luke, Bali, Indonesia

My schedule during the week is get up, get ready for school, go to school, go home, do homework, go to sleep and then I repeat that everyday for 5 days. As much as I don’t want to dread going to school, it’s exhausting having the same schedule repeated everyday of the week. While in school, you have assignments assigned nearly everyday. I feel as though school has had a change in its meaning because of the COVID-19 pandemic. While in quarantine, we were looking at a screen for the whole day and lacked motivation to get assignments done. When we shifted to in person school again, it didn’t change. I now look at school as a task that I need to complete to shape my future. I need to have all my assignments perfect and turned in on time. The meaning of school has turned into a draining task rather than a place that you look forward to going to.

— Jamisan, Salem, Oregon

Some students face challenges in attending class that may have nothing to do with the pandemic.

I don’t believe that students are skipping because it is so easy to catch up and pass, despite their absences. In fact, I know that a lot of people who skip aren’t passing most of their classes. They do this because their parents don’t hold them accountable, and there is always something deeper going on in that student’s life that makes it that much harder for them to find the motivation to go to class. I don’t think making the classes harder will hold students more accountable, but in fact deter them from going to class at all. If a student is aware that they are failing and doesn’t understand the concept of the class, and the class proceeds to become harder, they are going to quickly become unmotivated to go to class in the first place, feeling out of place compared to the other — passing — students in the class. While I don’t have a solution for this problem, myself, I feel that the problem is much broader than we suspect, and the answer will be a much deeper journey to find.

— Kylie, West Salem HS

Schools can do more to get students back in class.

I attend a French school in London and attendance is closely monitored. Absences have to be justified by your parents or you could get into trouble. I think it’s important to attend school as we did before Covid - because as well as learning the curriculum, it is crucial to socialise with your friends and classmates, which is good for your mental health … I wonder if social media could be a factor? If students did not have access to social media or the internet, would they prefer to be in school with their friends? This increase in absenteeism could affect students’ chances of getting into University when they come to finish school or even their opportunities later in life. Students need to be reminded of this more and more perhaps. School helps you to learn not just about facts but also helps to build your emotional quotient & social intelligence — which are all valuable for life.

— Alexandre 14, London

As a current high school junior, my experiences with skipping have been minimal at best, however, I feel strongly that the reason behind skipping is pretty simple. Students don’t care as much about school and the system encourages it. When faced with the choice of sitting in a class and learning about the Patagorian theorem or hanging out with friends, many students are now choosing the latter. The lack of care or effort being put forth in school doesn’t even affect their grades! This is due to certain classes having minimal grades set at 50%, which is 10% away from a pass. This system is actively encouraging people to put minimal effort into a class just to get a pass and graduate. Removing courses like this would certainly raise the importance of getting the work done. Another solution to this problem would be having attendance as a grade, if your grade depends on you being in classes then most would show up. If you have to show up to class to pass then more students would be inclined to do so. The emphasis is on not bending the knee to people who don’t want to show up to class, not giving them a minimal 50%, we should mark attendance for a passing grade, and letting them fail. If we keep letting students skip with minimal consequences then their attitudes won’t change and thus hinder our students’ growth.

— Henry, Salem, OR

Learn more about Current Events Conversation here and find all of our posts in this column .

Why Do Kids Hate School: Never Wonder Again

Do you remember the excitement you felt on your first day of school? The new backpack, the fresh pencils, the chance to learn and make new friends. But for many kids, that excitement fades quickly, replaced by boredom, frustration, and even dread. So why do so many kids hate school?

Understanding the Concept of School Dislike There are many factors that can contribute to a child’s dislike of school. Some kids struggle academically and feel overwhelmed by the work. Others may find the physical environment uncomfortable or distracting. And still others may struggle with social aspects of school, such as making friends or dealing with bullies.

Psychological Factors In addition to these more concrete factors, there are also psychological factors that can play a role in a child’s dislike of school. For example, anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues can make it difficult for a child to focus on learning and enjoy the school experience. Additionally, kids who have experienced trauma or difficult life circumstances may struggle to feel safe and comfortable at school.

Key Takeaways

• There are many factors that can contribute to a child’s dislike of school, including academic challenges, physical environment, and social aspects.
• Psychological factors such as anxiety, depression, and trauma can also play a role in school dislike.
• Addressing these factors and creating a positive, supportive school environment can help kids enjoy school and thrive academically.

Understanding the Concept of School Dislike

It’s not uncommon for children to express dislike towards school. While some children may love school, others may find it challenging, boring, or even overwhelming. Understanding the reasons behind school dislike can help parents and educators address the issue and find ways to make school a more positive experience for children.

One of the primary reasons why children may dislike school is that they find it boring. Sitting in a classroom for hours, listening to lectures, and completing assignments can be tedious, especially for children who prefer more hands-on learning experiences. Additionally, some children may find the curriculum irrelevant or unengaging, making it difficult for them to stay motivated and interested in learning.

Another reason why children may dislike school is that they find it overwhelming. Children who struggle with learning disabilities, anxiety, or other mental health issues may find school stressful and challenging. They may feel like they can’t keep up with their peers or that they’re not smart enough to succeed, leading to feelings of frustration and discouragement.

Finally, children may dislike school because of social issues. Bullying, peer pressure, and social anxiety can all make school a difficult and unpleasant experience for some children. They may feel like they don’t fit in or that they’re not accepted by their peers, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness.

In conclusion, there are many reasons why children may dislike school. By understanding these reasons, parents and educators can work together to find solutions and make school a more positive experience for children.

Psychological Factors

Many kids experience psychological factors that contribute to their dislike of school. These factors can range from fear and anxiety to peer pressure and bullying. Some kids may simply lack interest in the subject matter they are being taught.

Fear and Anxiety

Fear and anxiety can be a major factor in a child’s dislike of school. This can be caused by a number of things, such as fear of failure, fear of being judged, or fear of being punished. Anxiety can also be caused by social pressures, such as the pressure to fit in or the pressure to perform well.

Peer Pressure and Bullying

Peer pressure and bullying can also contribute to a child’s dislike of school. Kids who are bullied or who feel pressure to fit in may feel anxious or stressed, which can make it difficult for them to focus on their studies. Bullying can also lead to feelings of isolation and low self-esteem, which can make it difficult for kids to feel motivated to learn.

Lack of Interest

Finally, many kids simply lack interest in the subject matter they are being taught. This can be due to a variety of factors, such as a lack of engagement from the teacher, a lack of relevance to their lives, or a lack of understanding of the material. Kids who lack interest in their studies may struggle to pay attention in class and may be more likely to skip school or drop out altogether.

In conclusion, psychological factors can play a significant role in a child’s dislike of school. By addressing these factors, teachers and parents can help kids to feel more engaged and motivated in their studies, which can lead to better academic outcomes and a more positive attitude towards school.

Academic Challenges

Difficult curriculum.

One of the primary reasons why kids hate school is because of the difficult curriculum that they have to follow. The curriculum is often designed to be challenging, which can make it hard for students to keep up with their studies. Additionally, the curriculum can be too advanced for some students, which can lead to frustration and a lack of motivation.

To address this issue, schools should consider offering more support to students who are struggling with the curriculum. This could include extra tutoring sessions, study groups, and one-on-one support from teachers.

Homework Overload

Another reason why kids hate school is because of the overwhelming amount of homework they receive. Homework can be stressful and time-consuming, which can make it difficult for students to balance their schoolwork with other activities.

To address this issue, schools should consider limiting the amount of homework that students receive. Additionally, teachers should be encouraged to assign homework that is meaningful and engaging, rather than simply assigning busywork.

Overall, academic challenges can be a major source of frustration for students, leading to a lack of motivation and a negative attitude towards school. By addressing these challenges, schools can help students feel more confident and engaged in their studies.

Physical Environment

Uncomfortable classrooms.

One of the reasons why kids hate school is due to uncomfortable classrooms. Uncomfortable classrooms can make it difficult for students to focus on their studies. The temperature of the classroom, the lighting, and the seating arrangement can all contribute to an uncomfortable learning environment.

In some cases, the classroom may be too hot or too cold, making it difficult for students to concentrate. Additionally, poor lighting can cause eye strain and headaches, which can make it difficult for students to focus on their work. Uncomfortable seating arrangements can also make it difficult for students to concentrate, especially if they are sitting in cramped or uncomfortable chairs for long periods of time.

Poor School Facilities

Another reason why kids hate school is due to poor school facilities. Poor school facilities can make it difficult for students to learn and can even be dangerous in some cases. For example, if the school has inadequate heating or cooling systems, students may be uncomfortable or even sick while in class.

Additionally, if the school has poor sanitation facilities, students may be at risk of getting sick or contracting diseases. Poorly maintained school buildings can also be dangerous, as they may have structural problems or be at risk of collapsing.

In conclusion, uncomfortable classrooms and poor school facilities can contribute to a negative learning environment for students. It is important for schools to prioritize the physical environment in order to create a safe and comfortable learning environment for students.

Teacher-Student Relationship

The relationship between teachers and students can greatly affect how students feel about school. When teachers are able to build positive relationships with their students, it can lead to better engagement and motivation. However, when the relationship is strained, it can lead to disinterest and even dislike of school.

Uninspiring Teachers

One reason why kids may hate school is due to uninspiring teachers. If a teacher is not passionate about their subject or does not make an effort to engage their students, it can lead to a lack of interest in the subject matter. This can result in students feeling bored and unchallenged, which can lead to negative attitudes towards school.

Strict Discipline

Another factor that can affect the teacher-student relationship is strict discipline. While discipline is important in maintaining a classroom environment, if it is too strict or harsh, it can lead to feelings of fear and anxiety in students. This can result in a lack of trust in the teacher and a negative attitude towards school.

In order to improve the teacher-student relationship, it is important for teachers to make an effort to connect with their students on a personal level. This can involve getting to know their students’ interests and backgrounds, as well as providing opportunities for students to share their thoughts and ideas in the classroom. By building positive relationships with their students, teachers can help to create a more engaging and supportive learning environment.

Social Aspects

Lack of social skills.

One of the reasons why kids hate school is the lack of social skills. Some kids may struggle with socializing and making friends, which can make them feel isolated and lonely. They may feel like they don’t fit in with their peers and are unable to connect with others.

Additionally, some kids may not have had the opportunity to develop social skills before starting school. This can make it difficult for them to navigate social situations and make friends.

To help kids develop social skills, schools can provide opportunities for socialization and encourage group activities. Teachers can also provide guidance and support to help kids learn how to interact with others.

Feeling of Exclusion

Another reason why kids may hate school is the feeling of exclusion. Kids who feel like they don’t fit in or are not accepted by their peers may feel isolated and lonely. This can lead to feelings of depression and anxiety.

There are many reasons why kids may feel excluded, including differences in race, ethnicity, religion, or socioeconomic status. Schools can help address this issue by promoting diversity and inclusivity. Teachers can also encourage students to be accepting of others and create a safe and welcoming environment for all students.

Overall, addressing social aspects in schools can help students feel more connected and engaged in their education. By promoting social skills and inclusivity, schools can create a positive learning environment for all students.

Possible Solutions

Engaging teaching methods.

One of the most effective ways to make students enjoy school is to make the learning process more engaging. Teachers can use a variety of techniques to make lessons more interesting, such as hands-on activities, group projects, and multimedia presentations. By incorporating different teaching methods, educators can help students stay focused and motivated.

Another way to make learning more engaging is to use technology in the classroom. This can include using educational apps, interactive whiteboards, and online resources. By using technology, teachers can create a more dynamic and interactive learning experience that can capture the attention of even the most disengaged students.

Counselling and Support

Another solution to the problem of students hating school is to provide them with counselling and support. Many students struggle with personal issues that can affect their academic performance and attitude towards school. By providing students with access to counselling services, educators can help them overcome these challenges and improve their overall well-being.

Schools can also provide additional support services, such as tutoring and mentoring programs. These programs can help students who are struggling academically to catch up and stay on track. Additionally, mentoring programs can provide students with positive role models and help them develop important life skills.

Improving School Environment

Finally, improving the school environment can also help to make students enjoy school more. This can include making physical improvements to the school, such as adding more natural light or creating more comfortable learning spaces. Additionally, schools can create a more positive and inclusive culture by promoting diversity and encouraging student involvement in school activities.

Another way to improve the school environment is to create a sense of community within the school. This can include involving parents and community members in school events and activities, as well as creating opportunities for students to work together and collaborate. By creating a positive and supportive school environment, educators can help students feel more connected to their school and more motivated to learn.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common reasons why kids dislike school.

There are many reasons why some children may not enjoy school. Some common reasons include feeling bored or unchallenged, struggling with certain subjects, feeling overwhelmed by the workload, experiencing social or emotional difficulties, or feeling disconnected from the material being taught.

How can parents and teachers help children who don’t enjoy school?

Parents and teachers can help children who don’t enjoy school by creating a supportive and positive learning environment. This can include providing opportunities for students to pursue their interests, offering extra help or tutoring when needed, and encouraging open communication about any challenges or concerns.

What are some effective ways to motivate students who dislike school?

Some effective ways to motivate students who dislike school include incorporating hands-on and interactive activities, providing positive feedback and recognition for effort and progress, and setting achievable goals. It can also be helpful to connect the material being taught to real-life situations and to provide opportunities for students to collaborate and work together.

Are there any benefits to disliking school?

While disliking school may be a sign that a student is struggling or not engaged, it can also be an opportunity for growth and self-reflection. By identifying the reasons why they don’t enjoy school, students can work to address these challenges and develop strategies for success.

What are some alternative educational options for children who don’t like traditional school?

There are a variety of alternative educational options for children who don’t enjoy traditional school, including homeschooling, online learning, charter schools, and alternative education programs. These options may provide a more personalized and flexible approach to learning.

How can schools and teachers make learning more engaging for students who dislike school?

Schools and teachers can make learning more engaging for students who dislike school by incorporating a variety of teaching methods and technologies, providing opportunities for student choice and autonomy, and fostering a positive and inclusive classroom culture. It can also be helpful to provide opportunities for students to connect with real-world issues and to see the relevance of what they are learning.

Kids Who Learn

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5 Reasons Why Students Hate Homework

The ancient Greeks gave the first homework assignment. They assigned students to write down everything they had learned that day. This practice continued for centuries until the invention of the printing press in the 15th century.

Table of Contents

They don’t understand what they’re supposed to learn from it

Today’s students face an overload of assignments. According to a recent study, more than 50% of high school seniors report having at least one class with 50 or more pages of reading per week. And while teachers often complain that students lack the motivation to complete their work, research shows that students hate doing homework.

They don’t know where to start.

It’s not surprising that students dislike homework. After all, it’s boring, tedious, and sometimes even painful. However, there are ways to make it easier for students to do their homework without making it less effective. Here are five reasons why students hate homework.

• They don’t know where they should begin.
• They’re overwhelmed by the sheer volume of assignments.
• They feel guilty when they procrastinate.
• They’re afraid of failing.
• They don’t understand what they need to learn.

They feel like they’re being forced to do something they don’t enjoy

Many students hate doing homework because they think they’re being made to do something they don’t enjoy. This feeling comes from the fact that they were not given enough time to prepare for the assignment. In addition, they might feel pressured by parents, teachers, or other adults to do work they dislike.

They plain hate it!

If you ask students why they hate doing homework, they will tell you that it’s boring, tedious, and often pointless. Homework can be boring, but there are ways to make it more interesting.

Here are 5 reasons why students hate doing homework:

• They don’t know how to use the material.
• They don’t understand the purpose of the assignment.
• They don’t see why they should care about learning the material.
• They don’t know where they’ll use the knowledge.

How To Make Homework Fun?

Homework can be a chore for many students, especially those who struggle with ADHD. But there are things you can do to make it easier and more enjoyable. Here are some ideas that might help.

1. Set up a Homework Station

If you set up a designated space where kids can work, you will save yourself a lot of trouble. You can also use an area in your home as a homework station. It should be free of distractions so that children can focus on their schoolwork without being interrupted by other activities.

2. Create an Environment That Encourages Learning

Kids need to learn at different times during the day. They might not be able to sit down and do their homework when they first wake up in the morning.

Instead, they might prefer to spend some time playing before starting their studies. This means you need to provide them with a place where they can study while playing.

3. Find Out About Your Child’s Interests

You can use this space to find out what interests your child has. If he likes sports, you should set aside a room just for him to work on his homework. If he loves reading books, then you should buy him a bookcase so he can keep his favorite books close by.

4. Give Them Time to Work Through Problems

It’s essential to give children time to complete assignments. They need time to think through problems and come up with solutions. This will help them learn better problem-solving skills.

5. Let Them Play Games or Watch Videos

If you want to encourage your child to do his homework, try letting him play games or watch videos instead. These activities are more entertaining than reading books or doing math problems. You can also use these techniques when you’re trying to motivate yourself to work.

Homework Benefits for Students

Homework helps children learn how to study independently, practice skills in school, and develop good study habits. It also allows parents and teachers to monitor student progress and provide feedback on learning.

Why should I get my child’s homework done?

There are several reasons why getting your child’s homework done is beneficial.

• First, it gives them the chance to practice independent work.
• Second, it allows parents and teachers to monitor their child’s progress.
• Third, it will enable them to practice organization, note taking, and problem-solving skills.
• Fourth, it will allow them to reflect on what they learned during class.
• Finally, it gives them the confidence to ask questions when they need help with assignments.

What are some of the benefits of getting homework done?

Getting your child’s schoolwork completed helps them learn how to manage their workload. It also allows parents and teachers to check their child’s academic progress. In addition, it gives them the tools needed to succeed in life.

They will be able to organize themselves better, take notes, and solve problems. Lastly, it gives them the self-confidence to ask questions when they are stuck on an assignment.

What are some of my options for helping my students with their homework?

There are several ways to help your child complete their homework. First, you should ensure you understand what your child needs to do. If you aren’t familiar with the subject matter, you need to find a tutor specializing in that area.

You can also use online tutoring services such as Tutor.com or StudyBlue. These websites offer free tutoring sessions where you can connect with other people who share your same interests. Finally, you can hire a private tutor to work one-on-one with your child.

What are some tips for making homework easier?

It’s not uncommon for children to struggle with completing their homework assignments. However, there are things you can do to help them succeed.

• First, you should set up a study space conducive to learning. This means having enough lighting, comfortable furniture, and a quiet environment.
• Second, you should provide your child with ample opportunities to practice skills.
• Third, you should give your child plenty of time to complete their homework.
• Fourth, it would help if you encouraged your child to ask questions when stuck on an assignment.
• Fifth, you should reward your child for doing well on their homework.
• Sixth, you should avoid giving your child too much homework at once.
• Lastly, you should track how your child does on their homework to see if they are improving.

In what ways to help my child learn from their mistakes?

You can use several strategies to help your child learn from their mistakes. First, you should ensure your child has a safe workplace where they feel comfortable. Next, you should allow your child to take breaks as needed. Finally, it would help if you model good behavior by being willing to admit when you made a mistake.

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Why do Students Hate Homework?

You have probably seen your children not completing their homework. (Ugh!) It is frustrating. You want them to learn and you want them to get good grades. You feel like they are only hurting themselves by not doing the homework. Here, you can learn the importance of homework and some reasons why your children are not doing it.

These are just a few reasons. In this post, I have explored in detail some reasons why students hate homework to help you make it better for them.

Why is homework important?

The following are some reasons why homework assignments are important in your classroom.

1. Homework is an important tool for students to improve their grades.

Homework is an important tool for students to improve their grades. It can help them stay on track, learn new material, and build discipline. Getting a good grade on homework can help students build confidence, raise their self-esteem, and reduce frustration. They may also develop better study habits and set themselves up for success in college.

2. Homework can help students learn new material and improve their skills.

Homework can help students learn new material and improve their skills. Homework can also be used to motivate students and keep them on track. It is important for parents to set good examples for their children and help them with their homework.

However, parents should also remember that homework doesn’t have to be a burden. Homework can be fun and can help improve students’ time management skills and increase their ability to learn.

3. Homework can help students stay focused and motivated.

There are a few reasons why homework helps students stay focused and motivated in class. First, completing homework assignments can help students review and reinforce the concepts they learn in class. Also, completing homework assignments can help students stay motivated throughout the week. Completing homework assignments can help students take ownership of their own learning and improve their self-esteem. Therefore, homework assignments can give students a sense of accomplishment and boost their confidence. This further keeps students motivated.

4. Homework is an important aspect of education that helps students prepare for life in the real world.

Students have to stay on top of their studies in order to be ready for college, work, and other life experiences. Homework also gives students the opportunity to practice what they learn in class and allows them to prepare for tests. This prepares students for the real world.

5. Homework can help students learn how to study and stay organized.

Homework also helps students learn how to manage their time. Students who do homework can also get used to the amount of work they will have to do as a result of their studies. In other words, they get used to working hard. This can help them prepare for future life experiences.

10 Reasons Students Hate Homework

Below are some reasons why your students may hate homework. Make sure to avoid them in order to help your students succeed.

1. It Assigns Too Much Work

It assigns too much work. Homework can be a huge burden for students and can often take up too much time. It can be difficult for students to get their work done, especially if they are struggling with it. This can lead to students feeling stressed out and overwhelmed, which can have negative consequences for their academic performance. Find out  why you should give less homework here.

2. It Breaks Up the Family Dinner Schedule

One of the most common complaints from students is that their parents don’t have enough time for them. This can be caused by a variety of factors, but one of the most common culprits is homework.

Homework often takes up a lot of time in a day and interrupts the family dinner schedule. For many students, this means they are only able to see their parents during mealtime. This can be disruptive to the family dynamic and cause resentment.

There are also practical considerations to take into account when it comes to homework. Many students find that their schoolwork is easier if they have some uninterrupted time after school, which means that homework often gets in the way of getting some exercise or spending time with friends.

3. It Gets in the Way of Their Other Activities

One reason students may hate homework is that it gets in the way of their other activities. This can be frustrating, as many students want to spend their free time doing things they enjoy. Homework can also take up a lot of time, which could be better spent doing other things.

4. It Can Be Hard to Finish

One of the reasons many students hate doing their homework is that it can be hard to finish. This can be especially true when they have an assignment that requires a lot of research. In this case, students may not know where to begin or what they have to do. For example, if a student has to do research for an assignment, they may have no idea what to look for or where to begin.

5. They Don’t Understand the Instructions

Many students hate homework because it may be difficult to understand the instructions for the homework assignment. For example, unclear instructions on homework assignments can leave students struggling with how to tackle them. This can be frustrating and lead to negative feelings towards homework.

6. They’re afraid of failing if they don’t do their homework.

Students dread homework because they’re afraid of failing. For some, this is a legitimate fear. If you don’t do your homework, you could end up getting a low grade that will reflect poorly on your academic record and future prospects. For others, however, doing their homework is simply not something that comes naturally to them.

In these cases, it’s easy to give in to temptation and skip or ignore their homework altogether. This can have serious consequences, both academically and socially. Not only will students suffer from poor grades if they don’t do their homework, but they’ll also be less likely to get good jobs or admission into prestigious colleges if they’ve failed.

7. They Get Distracted by Social Media or Texting Friends.

One of the major reasons students hate homework is because they get distracted by social media or texting friends. Sites like Facebook and Instagram can be addicting, and it is hard for them to focus on anything else when they are constantly being pulled in different directions.

Some students even find themselves doing their homework in between classes or during class because they don’t have time to do it at home. This diversion from what should be a productive activity can really add up over the course of a semester.

8. They find it boring or dull.

They find homework boring or dull. Students often find homework to be a drag and a burden, rather than something that helps them learn. Homework can be difficult and time-consuming, making it difficult for students to get the most out of their education. Due to that, most students see homework as a boring activity. For example, some students may find it boring to write essays and other types of written assignments.

9. They Can’t Concentrate or Pay Attention to Details.

One of the main reasons students hate homework is because they can’t concentrate or pay attention to details. When they have to focus on a single task, it becomes incredibly difficult for them. Additionally, when details are important, students find it harder to pay attention. This can lead to mistakes and frustration.

10. The Penalties are too severe if they miss a deadline.

This is one of the main reasons students hate homework. If a student misses a deadline, they may have to suffer the consequences, such as having to do more work or having their grade reduced. This can be extremely frustrating for students who are trying to stay on top of their schoolwork, and it can lead them to dislike homework altogether.

In conclusion, homework is a source of frustration for many students. There are several reasons why students hate homework, including its negative impact on their mental and physical health, its negative impact on their grades, and its negative impact on their social lives. To make homework less frustrating for students, you should give students more time to complete it, allow them to work in groups, and provide feedback on their progress. In all, give less homework to your students if you want to help them benefit from it. Beware of the  pros and cons of homework when using it.

If you’re having a hard time getting your children to do their homework, we can help with that. The Student Den can support you with your student’s learning needs, offering your child the specific and personalized help they need. We work to help you reduce stress during the learning process – and to get your teen SAT/ACT and college ready! Learn more on Student Den’s Facebook Page or call us for a complimentary consultation at 561.213.3794

Reference: [ https://classroommanagementexpert.com/blog/10-reasons-why-students-hate-homework/ ]

Success Story

“If you are looking for SAT prep, I highly recommend the Student Den. My son did SAT prep there and did awesome on his test. One and done! We will be using them for the upcoming college application process. Highly, highly recommend!”

Angelo Questo has been and remains my favorite colleague. His experience brings a wealth of knowledge to any student he works. He highly competent in all areas of school counseling, but his true passion is college advising. He is humorous, compassionate and relatable to all those around him. His reputation is extraordinary and his hard work consistently results in positive student outcomes. I most admire that Angelo incorporates a family approach when working with students; he treats his clients as if they were his own family. That says a lot about his character and the trust he develops with those he works with. I would highly recommend him to any high school student seeking the advice from a man who knows his way around the college landscape.

Mr. Questo has been a tremendous help through the entire college process so far. His connections, competency, experience and advice have gotten me so much farther than the college counselor that is provided by my school. He and I literally spent 4 hours in one session to get as 3 applications completely done. When I left our meeting, I felt relieved that I had finally begun the process of applying to college and will be hearing from the colleges soon. We only have a few more applications and essays to finalize, so I should be done by the middle of October. Thanks to him, I can rest easy knowing that I have represented myself in the best possible light. He is with you every step of the way from essay revisions to application submission. I feel very fortunate to work with Mr. Questo and would definitely recommend him to my friends.

Mr. Questo started as my guidance counselor, but ended up becoming much, much more. I would consider him my friend. While he worked at my high school, he was someone I would easily be able to access if I needed help with something academically, socially or emotionally. Without Mr. Questo, my high school experience would have been much more difficult. I was upset to see him retire this year, but knew his work with students was far from over. If you decide to work with Mr. Questo, he will totally engage with you and help you attain your college goals. As soon as I began the college application process, I reached out to him and he responded to me immediately. Before I knew it, we had completed 4 applications in which I am now awaiting decisions and it was only the middle of September. He is a firm believer in getting the application in as early as possible. Whatever the question or whatever time of day I always get an answer right away. Mr. Questo has significantly made a difference in my life in many ways, especially with helping me navigate through the college application process. I am very appreciative of his knowledge, expediency, and his concern for my personal well-being. I would enthusiastically recommend him to any high school student seeking admission to college.

“I got 1480: 780 on reading and writing and 700 on math. Superscored 1510! Thank you SO much, Barton and Student Den. You’ve been such a great help. Let me know when I can start as an EmpowerMate. I really owe you one. :)”

15 Reasons Teachers Say Social Media Isn’t All Bad for Students

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Social media is the bane of many educators’ existence.

The platforms distract students from paying attention in class, make it harder for kids to communicate in-person, keep teens feeling isolated, and hurt students’ overall self-confidence, educators say.

But many teachers and school and district leaders do see some positive impact from the apps and platforms that they otherwise disdain.

One big bright spot: social media gives students a chance to pick up knowledge or delve into topics that they aren’t learning about in school. Thirty percent of educators surveyed by the EdWeek Research Center in December and January identified that learning opportunity as a positive outcome of social media use.

“Social media is a place where young people do engage in some self-directed and informal learning,” said Jeff Carpenter, a professor of education at Elon University who studies social media in education, who is also a former high school teacher. “And I think [for] teachers, there’s interest in encouraging students not just to learn within the confines of the school building, not just to learn about the things that teachers tell them they have to learn about, but to realize that you can learn outside of the school context, you can learn [about] topics that aren’t assigned to you. Follow your passions. Explore things.”

Nearly another quarter of educators surveyed said their students have been able to go deeper into topics they are learning about in school through social media, developed positive friendships, improved their creative skills, or received recognition or praise for their accomplishments.

Another quarter of educators surveyed said they couldn’t think of a single positive development arising from students’ social media use. The nationally representative survey of 595 educators was conducted from Dec. 21, 2023 to Jan. 2, 2024.

While Stefanie McKoy, a special education teacher at Branson Middle School in Missouri, understands why some teachers find social media nothing but problematic, her own perspective is more nuanced.

“Social media is a way for students to connect to the world,” said McKoy, who also works as a lecturer at University of Arkansas and studied social media platforms while pursuing her doctorate . “It gives students power, and a sense of choice. … I think what draws students to social media is that they’re like, ‘Oh, hey, you know, I can purposely look at this,’ or, ‘Hey, there’s another student that looks like me, but maybe they’re at a different school.’ And I think that that’s really great.”

Still, McKoy thinks students need help in navigating social media platforms safely and with a critical eye.

“I think that we have to do a better job at preparing our students for social media use,” she said. “And we as educators haven’t necessarily caught up to that yet.”

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It’s Even Bleaker for Teachers Than You Thought

M s. S. teaches English and math in a low-income neighborhood in New York City. She's one of the most experienced teachers at her school, having been there two years. She has a business degree, but school recruiters kept contacting her after she graduated so she decided to try teaching. "I really enjoy the quality time that I get to spend with these kids," says Ms. S., who is not using her full name, because she has not been authorized by her school to speak. "They're a lot of fun to be around."

But it's not easy. "The turnover is just so high," she says. "I think only eight of us returned out of maybe 40 new teachers from last year. And of those people, only maybe five of us are still here." She's in a class with 30 students and another teacher, because it's the integrated co-teaching class, where students with disabilities and those without disabilities learn together. Neither she nor her co-teacher, who just started teaching this year, have any training in education, let alone in instructing children with disabilities.

A constant struggle for Ms. S. is bridging the gulf between the minimal resources available to her and the maximal expectations parents and the school's administration place on her. Recently the principal of her school (also new this year) brought 15 extra students to her class because they had finished a test earlier than other students. In the chaos, a scuffle broke out. At pickup that day, a mother of one of the students involved publicly railed against Ms. S., and none of her managers were available to help her handle it. "You have to be someone who's able to take a lot of feedback," says Ms. S. of her job. "You have to be able to handle stress very well."

Read More: Many Americans Have No Idea How Their Kids Are Doing in School

Her workday starts at 7 a.m. and finishes at 4:15 p.m.—if parents are on time for pickup. And there always seems to be work after she gets home. "It's difficult to see other people get home from work and be able to relax and there's still things that I have to get done," she says. "I have to call a parent and discuss what happened today, and post the homework and grade the homework every single day. I want to just be social and make dinner and have a nice, enjoyable night, but it's like there's so many other things that I'm still behind on, so it's kind of a constant stress."

According to newly released research from Pew Research Center, Ms. S.'s experience is widely shared. Pew found the mood among teachers is grim. More than half of respondents would not recommend the career to a young person. More than two-thirds of them said they find teaching overwhelming, perhaps partly because, according to 70% of them, their school is understaffed.

The Pew report, What's It Like to Be a Teacher in America Today , which was compiled from an online survey of 2,531 U.S. public K-12 teachers in late 2023, also found more than 90% of teachers said poverty, chronic absenteeism, and anxiety and depression were problems in their schools, with about half citing these issues as major problems. Ms. S., who works in a high-poverty area, say her bosses push for results that match schools in less poverty-stricken neighborhoods. "We all try to tell leadership that that's an unrealistic expectation," she says. "Our parents are working two jobs and they simply don't have the time or money to hire tutors, or tutor their kid when they get home from work. If they have night jobs, they're not around after school."

But there are student behaviors that make their job even harder. Almost half of the teachers surveyed said students show little to no interest in learning, and the numbers were worse in high school. A third of teachers overall said cell phones are a major distraction —and 77% of high school teachers. Almost 60% of teachers said they have to deal with students' behavioral issues every day, and the numbers rise as the neighborhood around the school gets poorer. More than two-thirds of teachers in Pew's survey said they have experienced verbal abuse from a student. And, according to teachers, they can't rely on parents to help: almost 80% of them told Pew that parents do too little to hold their children accountable for misbehaving in class.

Read More: How to Make School More Equitable for All Students

For Ms. S., the students have been a highlight. She was thrilled when she was able to help one young woman she noticed was bright but misbehaving. "She went from failing at the beginning of the year to passing every single day," she says. "She just needed someone to believe in her."

Because of experiences like that, teaching used to be considered one of the most fulfilling careers available, but Pew's figures show that teachers now have less satisfaction than the average American worker. Reports of low teacher morale have been breaking out everywhere. One 2023 study using Rand data showed the proportion of teachers who said they were enthusiastic about their job plummeted from just over 60% in 2010 to a mere 20% by 2020. And according to Education Week's new Teacher Morale Index , the mood among elementary-school teachers is particularly low.

The dissatisfaction is partly a byproduct of the pandemic and the widening political divisions that have seen schools becoming battlegrounds. On top of those social frictions are fights over curriculum , rising parental distrust in the public school system, and the increased workload that comes with accommodating the students' many mental-health challenges . The Pew report illuminates a lot of that discontent, but one figure stands out. Teachers are especially disheartened with what they're paid; only 15% of public-school teachers say they're very happy with their salary. Ms. S. notes that her roommates make as much money as she does but don't have to work when they get home.

The number of people undertaking teacher-training courses dropped 33% in the decade between 2011 and 2021, and a recent study found almost 80% of schools struggled to find enough qualified teachers. And while more than half of teachers still find their job to be fulfilling, a full 30% told Pew it's likely they'll look for a new job this academic year and 11% say it's extremely likely.

As for Ms. S., staying at her school is no longer an option. Her many responsibilities have kept her from keeping up with the master's program her school requires to continue teaching there. She'll probably not make it through her exams. "This would have been my third year," she says. "I actually have some experience. And now that I finally learned how to do it, they're kicking me out."

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Why Do Students Hate Homework: The Potential Reasons You Should Know

Students hate homework because they do not like to do more study when they have already spent 6-8 hours of study at school. They spend most of their time studying which makes them frustrated and stressed. They can not spend time with their family and also with their friends to play. 

Homework also affects their academic grade, so the students have to take homework more seriously which leads to a lot of stress. These reasons make them hate homework.

Table of Contents

10 Reasons Why Students Hate Homework

There are many reasons why students hate homework. 10 reasons why students hate homework are given below-

• Hard to finish

Students hate homework because it requires a lot of research and hard work. They have a hard time finding where to start. It also takes a lot of time and they get stressed out. 

• No life other than study

Students spend their 6-8 hours in school studying and when they get back home, they spend most of their time doing homework. They have no life other than studying which affects their growth and social life. 

• No time for family 

As parents are busy with their work throughout the day, children are busy with their school. They can spend their time with their parents at night or dinner time but homework interrupts them. Because of homework, family bonding can be damaged.

• Too much homework 

Students have to do homework for every subject which can be stressful for them. Too much homework takes too much time which is difficult for students. It can also take a toll on their mental health. 

• No time for other activities 

Students have to take a huge burden on their heads that they have no time for other activities. There are many activities that can develop their growth but because of homework, they have no time for them. That can affect their physical growth as they do homework all day long inside the house.

• Homework is dull and boring

For students, homework is boring. It is difficult to do and takes too much time which makes them bored. They have to do homework even when they are home which is boring and stressful. 

• Afraid of failing 

Students are afraid of homework as they are afraid of failing. If they do not do homework, then it can affect their academic record which can lead to low-grade. This makes students more stressed about homework. As they want to get a good result, they have to do homework. Otherwise, they can get a low grade which they are afraid of. 

• Afraid of missing the deadline 

Students have to deal with many deadlines as they have many subjects. If they miss those deadlines, they get punished. They have to take detention classes or it can give a low grade. It keeps the students under mental pressure which is stressful. 

• Distracted by other things

Because of boring homework, students get easily distracted by other things like computer games, and social media. These can affect their life and take them away from studying. 

• No attention to details 

Students have to do so much homework that they always miss the details. They pay less attention to the details of the homework that all the study becomes useless. They think about how to finish the homework rather than understanding the details of the homework.

Why is homework stressful?

Homework is always stressful for students because they spend most of their time doing homework. They do not have enough time to fulfill their other needs like social or physical. They are also pressured to get good academic grades which gain more stress. 

Read More: ‘A’ Students VS ‘C’ Students: A Side-By-Side Comparison

Is homework helpful or hurtful?

Homework is helpful as it helps students to practice their studies and prepare them for exams. It develops their performance and learning abilities. But too much homework can be stressful for students and damage their development. 

Does homework do more harm than good?

Too much homework can harm students more than good. They can be stressful and boring as there is no time for family or other activities. The homework takes time to finish and interrupts their sleeping time.

Are schools with no homework better?

Yes, schools with no homework are better. In many researches, it is shown that homework has very little academic value. With no homework, children can spend their time with their family and do what they want which develops their inner growth.  

Students have to spend a lot of time studying because of homework which makes them hate homework. Homework gives them a lot of stress, it affects their physical and mental health as they always have to worry about homework. 

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