- A new approach called the 10-Minute Rule is being implemented in Indian schools in 2025
- The rule suggests 10 minutes of homework per grade level, promoting healthier expectations
- Educators advocate for the rule to reduce student stress and improve learning outcomes
Is homework becoming smarter, not harder? In 2025, a quiet shift is taking place in schools across India - and it's changing how students handle after-school assignments. Called the "10-Minute Rule", this new approach is backed by research and supported by teachers who say it's finally putting the focus back where it belongs: on learning, not burnout.
What is the 10-Minute Rule?
Simply put, the rule suggests 10 minutes of homework per grade level - per night. For example:
- A child in Grade 3 should have no more than 30 minutes of homework
- Grade 8? Around 80 minutes
It's a guideline, not a hard rule - but it's helping schools set healthier expectations.
Why the Rule Matters in 2025
With screen fatigue, tuition overload and rising anxiety among students, educators say homework needs a reset.
A few years ago, when the proposal was floated, some school teachers and principals welcomed the move, saying homework should reinforce learning instead of causing stress. They said this rule encourages balance - something that children need today.
What Parents Should Do Differently
If your child is spending hours on homework, it's time to rethink.
Here's how you can help:
- Talk to teachers if the workload seems high
- Time your child's homework and gently stop once the reasonable time limit is reached
- Prioritise understanding over finishing every last page
Does Less Homework Mean Lower Performance?
Surprisingly, no. Studies have shown that students with manageable and meaningful homework retain concepts better than those who cram for hours. It's not about how much work they do - it's about how well they understand it.
Parents need to remember that their role is evolving too. In 2025, helping your child doesn't mean sitting beside them for hours. It means protecting their time, focus and emotional wellbeing. The 10-minute rule is more than just a number - it's a reminder that less can be more.
