As an elementary school teacher I was required to provide homework to students every night except for Fridays. During school vacations we were required, yes...required, to provide packets of math and ELA to students. Every vacation I gave my first graders packets of dittos that they had to complete before they returned. I was young, inexperienced and untenured. I cringe at the fact that I provided that experience to students at such a young age.

There were times when homework took longer than 20 minutes. Yes, I asked all the right questions. 
• Does your child have a quiet spot to sit? 
• Do you have them go to the bathroom before they begin? 
• Do you provide them with a snack so they can focus?

Click here to continue reading.