I don’t know about you but I really don’t like the idea of homework for children in grades K-4. Yes, children should take home their readers (as long as they are a level or two below their instructional reading level) and read for fluency, meaning and enjoyment. This is the only homework that I see as beneficial, just saying.
As an experienced Pre-K to 2 teacher, I know that if a child is interested in something specific, I would provide them with individualized homework. I also think that homework could be a bit more engaging for our little ones who are probably very tired and unmotivated to practice spelling words. I do also think that at times, homework can be like pulling teeth for parents who are also tired and busy. This can create unwanted consequences for relationships and routines.
I believe that explicit, instructional learning should primarily be implemented in the classroom. I do not feel that homework should be compulsory. It should be optional and teachers can provide those options if that is what the child and parent(s) need or are interested in.
I have always worked at schools where homework is compulsory and the school policy doesn’t leave much space for anything else. Until school policy changes, let’s shake things up a bit.
If you’re like me and also dislike planning for traditional homework, then you might find this post helpful!
When I taught first grade, I always gave my students homework that was a bit different. I aimed to make it child friendly motivating, engaging and fun. You might say my homework assignments were a bit non-traditional in nature.
Here are some ideas that you could incorporate into your homework program. Parents can also use this list to help their children engage with sight word, spelling words and reading each week.
Click on any of the image to download the free file.
Click here to download your free non-traditional homework ideas.
If you have any non-traditional homework ideas, please leave a comment below. I would love to read about how your school approaches homework and your philosophy regarding homework for K-4 students.
You may also like our Top Shelf Books post with a free list of popular books.
Or our I Spy Words post which would be ideal as a fresh homework idea.
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Thanks for blogging about this topic. I couldn't agree with you more!!! I100% endorse reading and logging in the reading. However, homework is abused by many teachers. I have been lucky with my own children in this aspect, but I hear horror stories from family and friends that deal with hours and hours of homework for their little ones. I also agree that as students get older their academic responsibilities should increase both in and out of the classroom. Furthermore, homework in the lower grades does monopolize far too much instructional time in both checking, correcting, or sending notes home for missing homework. Phew, I'm tired just thinking about it.
I do a leveled reader one night and vocab words one night otherwise it is up to them. In December our school did a calendar with family activities for "homework". If they did at least 12 in the whole month they got extra reading counts points for the end of the year store.
Love these ideas, Emma, and so timely given I've just finished my (compulsory 🙁 ) spelling lists for next term. I try to give my Grade 1s lots of options for practising their spelling that doesn't just involve them writing in their book, though, because I feel the same way. I really loved reading through all these ideas and will definitely be incorporating some of them!
Stef @ Miss Galvin Learns
Love your ideas! Each year I am more and more opposed to giving homework. I find the kids who need the practice the most are the least likely to do it. Also, my goal is to get kids to think about math and not just do it. If I send certain skills home for homework, parents often teach kids "how to do it" and use an algorithm for everything.
Tara
The Math Maniac
I am so with you on homework! Most of the time it's a struggle to even come up with appropriate practice, and then it's too easy for those who already understood, or too hard for those who didn't. These are great ideas! Just found your blog, and am in love with all your helpful, cute ideas! I'm your newest follower, and would love for you to check out my blog, too.
Brooke
I am so glad I came across this. I teach K and the homework we have is mostly sight word practice. I try to put it into a game of some sort. Here are some things we have done: tic tac toe with the words, rainbow write, blank game board for them to write their words, roll die and move, spin, write, and graph, pick a word and graph,concentration, hide and seek, I know these aren't anything new, but I like the idea of family doing it together and having fun. I just have the parent sign a sticker sheet that they worked on it. That way I don't have anything to correct 🙂
Thank you very much. I made the switch to a calendar of homework ideas (not to return) and a book bag with a log this year from the packets my grade level was sending out. I hated those packets and was so happy my principal said I could break free! I love this suggestion packet as a resource for parents. I could see the relief on their faces as I explained the "homework" system but I also want to provide them with ideas. Perfect timing!! 🙂
Hi Emma, thank you for this great resource! You included some really neat ideas! I am looking forward to using it!!
Carrie
i Heart Second
The Think Aloud Cloud