Here's an interesting bit of research I found while googling, and supports JJsMom's point - the right amount and the right kind of homework can be beneficial.
http://www.dukenews.duke.edu/2006/03/homework.htmlMy DD in middle school routinely has 3 hours plus of homework almost every night. She's hardly doing anything but homework during the week. DS in 1st grade gets about 30 minutes, most of it so far not really worthwhile. He's frustrated at the lack of challenge, but so far, not refusing to do it. So, needless to say, we spend most evenings planning, doing and checking homework. Fun, fun
