"Do you have any homework?"

Unfortunately, this is often the first thing parents (and grandparents) say to their kiddos when they get home form school.  Research indicates that maybe homework for elementary age kids is not all it's cracked up to be.  The idea is/was to instill responsibility in school age kids.  Homework would reinforce what was taught that day and give it another chance to sink in..........or would it.  There's a whole lot of school time coming in the next 10 years.  Let's let our 5- 10 year olds have a little time to be 5-10 year olds.  Especially now, with the onset of the nasty Common Core, which by the way makes the common cold enjoyable, more stress on these little minds is hardly a great way to start their learning adventure.  And who declared that pencil to paper was always the best way to teach?  Maybe the first thing to say to returning kids is, "I've missed you. How was your day?"  Once again, dinner conversation is the best.  You learn to socialize (even with just family,) you learn to share, you can openly complain about or praise the things (or people) that you enjoyed (or not).  You learn manners, communication and patience.....all things that are still home work but exactly the things that you should be learning at home!  I still contend that the decline of family dinners is a real detriment to a well rounded family.  I understand that often parent's jobs, kid's sports and single parent families are limited in family time....maybe even one day a week to say this is it.  We're all going to share a meal, share the chores, share some conversation and share a little love...Too little of this and too much emphasis on homework sets a poor example for the next 10 years.  Let's raise good kids.  It might take a village but it starts on your street and in your home!