Parents under stress to finish assignments

A study conducted by researchers at Brown University has revealed that children’s homework can be a cause of stress and tension among parents. Most parents are unable to help their children with their homework, while children themselves dislike completing homework, projects, and assignments.

The study has shown that homework can have a tremendous impact on a family and it can generate stress. Children often think of homework and projects as punishment. According to the researchers, if students struggle with their homework, then the assigned tasks may not be appropriate for their level of understanding.

Ms Nidhi Gupta, a parent, said, “We experience a lot of stress and tension because of our kids’ homework and projects. Different boards have different methodologies, which is confusing for parents. The homework that is assigned to students these days is not straightforward, because of which kids, as well as parents, have to invest extra effort in completing it. Sometimes it feels like we have taken admission in a school, which is really very stressful.”

Mr Kadapa Venkat, a parent from Hyderabad, says, “For pre-primary classes colour or theme days are celebrated, and students are expected to come dressed accordingly. Imagine what a headache it must be for parents to craft vegetables and tie them to their children’s outfits, or to find outfits of the appropriate colour. It has become quite stressful for parents like us to buy the necessary materials required for these projects.”

He adds that children often inform parents of the requirements for the next day at the last minute. “My kids tell me at 8.30 pm or 9 pm that they have to submit some projects the next day. If I am on my way home from work, then I have to turn around and go back to get them the materials.”