I’ve been solely homeschooling my eldest just short of a year now. And through trial and error, I have come to learn a few tricks to make the transition smooth. And I’ve gotten tips on how to keep the energy going once you’ve dived into this homeschooling world. Choosing this path isn’t easy, and at times can seem very overwhelming. But if this is something you want to do, then know that you have what it takes. Our home has become so much more than what it was. It’s a school that’s open 24/7. Here are some of the who, what, where, when, and how’s you’ll need to think about so that you can love homeschooling from day 1 to 100.
Who is your support (person/group)? It is important for you not only to know who you can turn to for specific homeschooling questions but also what their role is. I tell my kids I’m the teacher, counselor, dean, PE coach, janitor…but dad is the Principle. He gets involved when I’m having trouble introducing a new topic or need another set of eyes to check work. And sometimes he simply steps in so I can take a break. It’s comforting knowing that I can tap out when things have become too much for me. Tip: Talk with your spouse. Get on the same page so roles and expectations are clear before school starts.
It’s also nice to know other homeschooling families so your child can socialize with kids in a similar educational environment. It will also benefit you (the homeschooling parent) to know others who can relate to your struggles. You may also receive some great advice from someone who is going through it, not just reading about it. Tip: Get tapped into the homeschooling community in your area, they’re a great resource.
What is your goal? Knowing what you expect from your school year will help to guide your teaching, and provide some direction for your child. Most curriculum comes with an agenda, but it is your responsibility to communicate any concerns you may have with your child’s work to them. So set the pace, plan time for breaks, to reviewing work, etc. and be flexible. A benefit of homeschooling is that you can change their schooling experience to meet their needs. Tip: Set goals according to their needs and abilities, not your own.
Where will you teach? Yes, at your home is implied, but where in your home is the real question? At the dining room table, a room set aside for homeschooling, outside? Another beautiful thing about homeschooling is that you can do it anywhere. As long as that space is functional for you and your kids to work in. Then the skies the limit. Tip: When choosing an area consider the materials required in the days’ lesson and your child’s temperament.
When will their school days start and end? In many studies, they’ve discovered that home-schooled kids are happier than public school kids. Their school days start time and length is a huge contributor to that. Home-schooled children are more rested than public school children. So it makes sense that they are happier more focused learners. So set your start time with that in mind. Tip: Set a schedule your kids can count on. That will help them prepare for each day.
How will you make it fun? There are usually some activities, and crafts provided to go along with your studies, but after 83 days even those can seem to get a bit dull. Think of fun new ways to make learning come to life. Plan field trips or weekly share and tells. Include new courses like baking or gardening. Have a set day for story time or let them put on a performance/play. Even PE can become a fun way to mix up the day when learning a new game. Tip: Before school starts take time to plan and research as many activities and outings as possible. Then mark them on your calendar as a reminder of the fun to come.
How will you keep home and school separated? Being at home most days can lead you to focus on the home itself. It’s easy to see all the things that need to be cleaned up and put away. But don’t overextend yourself by attempting to manage the house while teaching new lessons. If you’re asking your kids for their undivided attention, then you should be prepared to do the same. Tip: If you choose to do housework during their school time then plan to do so during their breaks, or when the activities are easy for them to move through without supervision. But if it can wait, let it.
And the last few words of advice I have are these. Remember to share your schooling experience with family and friends. From posting pictures to backyard award ceremonies, it is important to celebrate your child’s homeschooling accomplishments with others. Let them know you are proud of them. And like another other schooling success, theirs at home with you is a big deal.
Be flexible and open to change. The idea of homeschooling that you have in your head may not be what becomes your reality. So let go of the ‘dream’ and focus on your child’s educational needs. Adapting to change is not only a necessity when homeschooling, but it’s a great lesson your kids can learn from watching you.
With planning and forethought, your school year can be a great success.