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Homework Resource for Elementary Teachers - or - Yes, or No for Homework

Homework... Yes or No?

  • Yes, if it follows a lesson at school.
  • Yes, if the child understands the directions.
  • Yes, if it reinforces learning. Homework gives students a chance to review and practice skills taught in class, helping solidify new concepts. 
  • Yes, if you design and plan homework assignments to build responsibility.  Completing homework teaches students to manage their own tasks, follow directions, and meet deadlines.
  • Yes, if the purpose is to strengthen study habits.  Regular homework develops focus, persistence, and organization—skills they’ll use in higher grades.
  • Yes, if you plan by design to encourage family involvement.  Homework can give parents a window into what their child is learning and ways to support them.
  • Yes, because a consistent homework routine prepares for future academic demands.  Homework helps students transition smoothly to the increased workload in later grades. 

  • No, if it's busy work with no alignment to school lessons.
  • No, because you want to protect family time.  Afternoons might be filled with playing outside, hobbies, and just relaxing. 
  • No, because no homework might reduce stress.  Students can avoid frustration and burnout after a full day of school.
  • No, because the time might encourage other learning.  Children can explore personal interests, read for pleasure, or work on creative projects instead of worksheets.  
  • No, not all students have access to a quiet space, supplies, or help at home.
  • No, because more free time in the evening can lead to better rest, which supports focus and learning during the day.

Well, are you a YES homework teacher or a  NO homework teacher, or do you not have a choice?
When elementary teachers have to give homework because of a school or district mandate, the key is to create a thoughtful homework policy that supports learning without overwhelming students or families.  When elementary teachers believe homework for children is beneficial, the key is to create a thoughtful homework policy that supports learning without overwhelming students or families. 

Here are the main factors teachers often consider:

1.     Purpose and Learning Goals

  • Make sure homework has an apparent reason—review, practice, or prepare for a lesson—not just “because it’s required.”

  • Connect it directly to what students learned in class.

2.  Appropriate Time Limits

  • Follow research-based guidelines: often 10 minutes per grade level per night (so ~30 minutes for Grade 3).

  • Consider the total homework load if students have multiple teachers.

3.  Student Readiness & Differentiation

  • Assign homework that students can do independently, without heavy parent help.

  • Adjust difficulty so struggling learners aren’t discouraged and advanced learners are still challenged.

4.  Clear Instructions & Consistency

  • Give simple, step-by-step directions (ideally also written down).

  • Keep a predictable routine so families know what to expect.

5.  Flexibility for Family Life

  • Build in occasional “homework passes” or choice boards so students can balance school with sports, music, or family events.

6.  Feedback & Follow-Up

  • Check homework and use it to guide instruction, so students see it matters.

  • Provide quick teacher feedback instead of just marking it “done.”

  • Provide a time and place for student and parent feedback.  How is it going?  Quick, short surveys can help future homework assignments become better. 

7. Equity & Access

  • Make sure all students have the materials, time, and space they need—or offer alternatives for those who don’t.

  • Avoid assignments that require costly supplies or internet access unless the school provides them.

  • You know your students best.  Be flexible and understanding when assigning homework.


To help you get started in the new school year, grab this homework resource to explain and prepare your students for a successful year of homework. 

  • "We used this to help adults and children establish a homework routine. This will benefit them when they begin homework here at school and in the future. Thank you!"
  • "I sent this home with students to foster conversations with caretakers about productive homework habits and homework expectations."
  • "Great product, very helpful!"
Grab this teacher resource for homework prep for only $5.00.  

This one homework assignment at the beginning of the school year will improve all future homework assignments.  Teach responsibility and good homework habits.  Engage family involvement.  Provide a thinking time for academic success.  There is also a place for a parent/guardian signature, so parents are informed about homework assignments for the school year, which will start the year with excellent communication between parent and teacher.  Perfect for a first week of school activity.

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