By Ajay Gupta
In India, the argument about how much homework is too much for young students has gotten more traction in recent years. It has become a trending topic of discussion among parents, educators, and experts alike. A child’s growth throughout preschool is crucial since it lays the groundwork for their future academic endeavors, but overloading them with homework can dramatically change the overall development of the young ones. In this article, we shall shed light on the existing situation as we examine the preschool homework scene in India while looking at the best homework schedule that encourages early learning without overwhelming young minds.
Children in preschool, who are usually between the ages of three and six, are given early exposure to learning via play and discovery. However, a lot of preschools in India have started giving loads of homework, which has caused parents and educators to feel conflicted.
Preschooling is the foundation of education and is very important. Developing a passion for studying as well as being realistic with one’s expectations should be the main goal of the homework. The best way to go about it is by reinforcing at home what has been taught at the preschool. This will not only lower the pressure upon young minds but also increase their learning retention.
Emerging Problems: Overloaded Homework
According to a survey done by a well-known education portal, 75% of preschools in India give students some sort of homework. Over the previous ten years, this trend has steadily increased. Coloring pages, easy puzzles, and writing practice are common homework assignments for preschoolers. As per the research conducted by the National Association of Parents and Teachers, 60% of preschoolers are given these activities each week rather than once every two weeks. Since the emphasis should be on the caliber of the activities rather than the quantity, this fact is concerning.
The Art of Balancing
According to a UNICEF assessment of children’s well-being, India’s educational quality and children’s happiness are below the worldwide average. The quantity of homework children get, causes many Indian parents and children to feel overburdened. Both sides often experience stress as a result, which impacts the parent-child bond.
Studies reveal that nations with lower levels of homework assigned in the early stages of schooling typically achieve higher levels of learning. Since preschool homework can help reinforce lessons and establish routines, it’s essential to find the correct mix to support the growth of children as a whole.
For example, children in preschool have a developing capacity for thought. These skills should be supported through homework, which should encourage problem-solving and critical thinking over repetitive memorization.
Recommendations for Finding the Right Approach
Preschool homework assignments must be handled carefully, taking into consideration the educational objectives and developmental requirements of the students. The following pieces of advice can help you strike that balance:
Age-appropriate homework: Make sure that the assignments given to young children are in line with their developmental stage. Activities should be tailored to their level of cognitive and motor development, emphasizing play and discovery over structured academic work.
Limited Time Commitment: Don’t let young brains spend too much time on their assignments. Ten to fifteen minutes a day is a standard recommendation, which may be gradually increased as the child becomes older.
Flexible Timetables: Acknowledge that preschoolers have a range of energy levels and timetables. Make the homework flexible such that families can finish it at a time that works best for their child.
Routines and Consistency: Make homework a normal and anticipated part of the day by including it in their daily schedule. Being consistent in keeping the children on time with the right schedule and strategy minimizes stress.
The subject of preschool homework is one that both parents and teachers find controversial. It’s important to keep in mind that, even while a gradual introduction to education might be advantageous, giving children too much homework can stunt their growth. Finding a balance between learning and play, which reinforces the things learned at preschool most of all, is essential to raising happy, healthy, and well-rounded kids.
The author is founder of Bachpan play school & AHPS school. Views are personal.