I think the main thing for elementary school aged kids is reading. If the parents are reading for fun with the kids, then they will learn.
That's why I hate homework and forced reading. It's not enjoyable, and the kids get stressed out.
I also worry about exercise. The kids don't run around much at school, and after school there's no time to run around. If we don't get homework done when they first get home, then they are too tired. By the time they are done with homework (5:30), it's already dark. In the spring time it's not as bad. I get dinner done early, and then they play after dinner because it stays light longer.
You are so right about the reading.....forced reading does NOT work, at all.
We're lucky, our daughter loves to read and so it is always fun. She has made up a game with her "story book" at bed time.......she reads one page and mommy (or daddy) reads the next page.