Home Activity Challenges
Homework Policy
I often get requests for “home”work. My feelings on homework come from varied sources, such as being an educator, working full time, coaching, and most of all, being a parent of three children. But in the end, I look to the research about the value of homework for elementary aged children.
After researching the subject of homework and attending trainings on the subject matter I personally have decided that no formal homework will be assigned. However, I will provide your child with activities that are proven to correlate with student success!
I am happy to provide the attached calendar which was created to offer you the opportunity to connect things we learn at school with the children's real life environment. It may not appear to be “traditional homework” but it is work that you can do at home with your child to assist your child’s ability to learn. Some activities involve listening, speaking, math, reading, or writing, which place emphasis on utilizing these skills within their home lives. There are many opportunities to expand on the activity on the calendar by recording, writing, or doing an additional activity. These activities are just as valuable when you talk, ask questions, and listen to your child. Each activity doesn’t need to be written down.
Your child can choose one activity a night. Save the activities that demand more time for a night when you have more time, or even on a weekend. Each activity was designed to meet the expectations that children can become higher level thinkers. While some activities ask only that a child list, count, or match-other activities will require more thought and research, stretching their higher level thinking skills.
I ask that each child complete 10 activities per month. For every 5 activities completed your child will earn a ticket for a classroom drawing. Completing the entire monthly calendar will allow your child to eat in the classroom with a friend. When an activity is completed it can be returned in his/her homework folder and your child will have the opportunity to share what he/she has learned or discovered with the class.
My hope is that this type of homework allows you to enjoy being involved with your child’s education. Also, if at any time, your child does not want to complete an activity, it is ok to skip a night or two.
Please note…
“School”work will only be sent home if your child was not able to complete it at school or was absent. Your child will also be given a weekly “study guide” that includes the story we are reading and spelling and vocabulary words for the week. My website also will provide you child with a variety of educational links to provide extra learning opportunities.
If you as a parent prefer “traditional homework” your child will be provided with baggy books and will be expected to read 20 minutes daily. You will be provided with a book log and it will need to sign nightly by a parent as well.