homework

Dane is in the first grade.  He just turned 7.  Every night he brings home math homework.  Something I didn't find out till a couple nights ago is that Dane doesn't get to go outside for recess if he doesn't have his homework done.  Why was I not informed of this?  Dane needs that time to unwind and be a child.  It has been awful getting him to concentrate just to do a few problems.  He knows the work but he does not want to focus.  After school he's very overtired and cranky.

I have started more every night getting him to do his homework.  The teacher crosses off at least half the work.  I cannot imagine all this kids at this age doing this much every night.  I don't think it's fair.  I went to a private school during elementary and I don't remember bringing any homework home until at  least the 3rd grade.

Dane in 1st grade outside Occupational Therapy

Its true.  Kindergarten is like first grade now.  They want the kids to tie their own shoes and show their work on their math.  Are we growing smarter or just pushing our kids too hard?

I have to admit, I'm tired from working all day.  It's good if I can get a half hour nap in so I can be able to read and help Dane with his math homework.  There has been a night or two where I am just like..oh, screw it and I fill in the numbers for him or just tell him the answers.  All I can tell myself is that...hey...his work is done now let the boy go outside for recess.  Don't coop him up in class all day and punish him.

We got a review of Danes goals from the school today.  He is coming along on his reading.  He did poorly on his writing.  I can see this.  He needs to work more on his finger muscles to improve his fine motor skills.  He has troubles still buttoning his jacket and zipping up his coat.  Tying his shoes is not an option right now and we got the school to accept that he needs his velcrow shoes.  He has come a long way and I am so proud of him.

Danes teacher sent home a slip for an after school program.  I don't think so.  His day is long enough.  I don't want him to hate school this much.  No way do I want him staying there any longer then he has to.  Just like me getting out of work.  My job is done...I'm going home.