As a parent, like many others, I’m deeply invested in my children’s education. Our home, finances, and daily routines are all crafted with their futures in mind. Overall, my kids are having positive experiences, largely thanks to dedicated teachers who consistently go the extra mile despite the challenges in education today. However, there are aspects of their school life that I’d love to change if given the chance. While we strive to ensure no child is left behind, it’s equally important to protect their childhoods.
1. Daily Recess for All—30 Minutes Minimum!
In a six-hour school day, my fifth and second graders barely get enough recess time, even though they have more than many schools in our state. Due to strict state regulations and the pressure of standardized testing, schools often struggle to fit in important “extras” like recess or library time. With lunch breaks averaging just 20 minutes, it’s disheartening to see kids missing out on playtime. After all, there are no playgrounds waiting for them in middle school! Every child deserves a chance to run, jump, and play freely before growing up. Recess isn’t just a break; it’s a vital part of their education.
2. Less Stress from Standardized Testing
Standardized testing is rampant where we live, and it takes a toll on my kids. They spend an excessive amount of time preparing for these exams, often under intense pressure. For example, third graders in our area face the possibility of repeating their grade if they don’t pass, leading to anxiety and sleepless nights. I believe that while assessments are crucial for accountability, they shouldn’t define a child’s worth or lead to such overwhelming stress. Let’s minimize the testing and focus on meaningful education that allows children to thrive creatively and academically.
3. Cut Back on Homework
I take my children’s education seriously and view school as their job. However, once the school day ends, I believe they should have the freedom to engage in activities that enrich their lives—like playing outside, pursuing hobbies, or just relaxing with family. Homework should be minimal and meaningful, serving mainly as a quick review of what they learned in class. In today’s world, where teaching methods can be quite different from what I grew up with, it’s crucial that instruction happens during school hours. Less homework means more quality time together, which is vital for their overall development.
4. Embrace the Arts
As a mom of kids who love STEM subjects, I appreciate their importance, but I yearn for more emphasis on the arts in their education. I wish they had more opportunities to explore art, music, and creative writing rather than just focusing on structured essays for tests. The arts enrich our lives, and I worry that my children might excel in tests but miss out on expressing their creativity and emotions. In a world increasingly influenced by technology, cultivating artistic skills is more important than ever.
5. Inject More Joy into School
I recently came across a delightful video of a teacher in Austin dancing with his students to “Uptown Funk.” It reminded me that schools should be places filled with laughter and joy. Teaching should be enjoyable, not just stressful. I want my children to come home excited about what they learned, sharing fun stories instead of focusing on missed recess time or yet another standardized test. After all, school is where they spend a significant portion of their childhood, so let’s make it a joyful experience.
In the end, we only get one shot at childhood, and our kids deserve to spend it in environments that encourage wonder and laughter. School should enhance their lives, not diminish the joy of learning.
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Summary: Education should nurture both the intellect and the spirit of children. By advocating for daily recess, reducing the stress of standardized testing, minimizing homework, valuing the arts, and infusing joy into schools, we can create a more balanced and enriching educational experience for our kids.