The Effects of Long School Days on Family Life

Study Notes

Family Life Under Strain

A survey of over 1,300 teachers finds that parents are prioritizing work over their children, resulting in negative impacts on family life.
Teachers report that children are spending up to 10 hours in school or childcare, leading to issues such as:
- Children not talking to anyone
- Children falling asleep frequently
- Children lagging behind their peers

Causes of Family Life Strain

94% of teachers believe that parents working long hours is the main reason for reduced family time.
92% of teachers blame the use of technology for the decline in family time.

Consequences of Family Life Strain

56% of teachers think children spend a lot less time with their families than they did 20 years ago.
74% of teachers think parents and children have less time together than they did five years ago.
61% of teachers think parents and children have less time together than they did two years ago.

Teacher Concerns

Teachers are concerned that children are being treated as "cogs in an economic system" and are being forced to grow up too quickly.
Teachers believe that children need time to be children, play with friends, and spend time with their families.

Government Response

The government believes that parents should decide what is best for their family.
Ministers have called for school nurseries to open longer to provide more flexibility for parents.

ATL's Resolution

The ATL has passed a resolution calling for an end to the erosion of childhood and family life.
The resolution demands more family-friendly jobs and a greater work-life balance for parents.

Description

This quiz explores the impact of long school days on family relationships and child development, based on a survey of teachers. It examines the consequences of parents prioritizing work over family time and the effects on children's social and educational well-being.