No homework rule for kids: Parents, academics happy with scenario

Coimbatore: Reiterating that it is “absolutely not necessary” for children of class I and II to be put through homework as all the learning begins and ends within the four walls of the classroom at the school, Mr. A. Benjamin, principal, Stanes CBSE School welcomes the recent Madras High Court rule in accordance with the National Council Of Educational Research And Training (NCERT), directing schools in the country, irrespective of the educational board affiliated, to refrain from prescribing homework for students of class I and II.

“Hitherto parents who were under the impression that homework can improve the child's academic performance have come to understand and accept the fact home assignments are not actually required for a child of class I and II.” he said. Seconding him on these lines is P B Prince Gajendra Babu, general secretary of State Platform for Common School System (SPCSS) Tamil Nadu, said, “it may be recalled that on July 15, 1993, the eight-member Yashpal Committee under the leadership of Prof Yashpal rendered its report titled ‘Learning Without Burden’ to the government. Why was it not implemented back then?”,he wondered.

A majority of parents and academicians whom DC spoke with are happy that the ‘no homework rule’ for class I and II is implemented better late than never.  “No academic tasks to work on at home, leaves children with enough time to play after school hours and go to bed early.” Shewtha Prasad, mother of Jayantika currently studying in class I in a private school here, said.