Homeschooling [1] has its advantages, but it can also be overwhelming [2] when you're just getting started. Besides fulfiling household duties and work obligations, manageing your child's education requires changes in schedule, routine, and lifestyle. But it absolutely can be done.
To be completely transparent, when I first started homeschooling, I wasn't sure I'd survive the first month [3], let alone an entire year. With no teaching experience and only a vague idea of what my child was actually learning in traditional school, those first few months of homeschooling felt impossible. But with time, and the lessons I've learned along the way, I have adapted to homeschool life and truly enjoy the freedom to educate my child in a way that works with our family schedule and value system. Read on for my favourite tips.
Be Informed of Your State's Education Laws
Don't let this scare you. Just like a traditional school has laws it must abide by, so does a homeschool. The good news is that this information can easily be found on your state's education website or through organisations such as Home School Legal Defence Association [5].
Don't Try To Do It All
Don't try to create a curriculum or lesson plans all on your own. You can find free and low-cost homeschool resources online [6] and can even purchase a completely pre-designed curriculum which saves you tons of time and energy. A favourite site of mine for free and affordable lesson plans is Teachers Pay Teachers [7].
Make a Checklist Instead of a Schedule
If you are the type of person who thrives on a schedule [8], by all means, make one for your school day. But if the thought of trying to stay on schedule while manageing the rest of your home stresses you out, try using a checklist instead. Simply make a daily (or weekly) list of material that will be covered, and cross it off as you go. Using a checklist gives you more freedom in deciding how each day plays out and allows for more breaks and interruptions.
Ease Into the School Day
Don't be afraid to start the day off with play or quiet time. Part of the joy of homeschooling is the ability to move at a slower pace. Have some coffee while your child plays or watches a favourite show, and you'll both be in a better mood when your school day begins.
Don't Expect It to Look Like Traditional School
Don't be fooled into thinking that your homeschool should look like traditional school. Your walls don't have to be covered in posters or clever mottos for your child to learn. Your child doesn't even need a desk. A kitchen table, background music, and the comfort of home will do just fine.
Two to Four Hours Each Day is All You Need
While traditional schools hold classes all day, many homeschoolers complete their school day within two to four hours. With more one-on-one teaching, homeschool work truly doesn't take as long to complete, leaving more time to do things your family enjoys.
Set Boundaries
Despite what you might believe, your children do not need full access to you at all hours of the day. Set a block of time each day [9] for everyone in your household to practice quiet time. This provides a needed break for everyone and allows you to rest or focus solely on your own tasks.
Remember that Kids Don't Need a Classroom to Learn
Get in your kitchen, then get into the backyard. Baking cookies is educational when you consider the amount of maths that goes into following recipes, measuring ingredients, and determining how much time is needed in the oven. Likewise, getting outside teaches children about weather patterns, growth cycles, and geology. Learning opportunities are everywhere, so don't feel stuck at the kitchen table!
Take Breaks When You Need Them
The beauty of homeschooling truly does lie in the ability make your own schedule and work at your own pace. If you or your child are having a bad day and frustrations are high, take a break. It's okay to revisit lessons and school work when you and your child are in a better mood to teach and learn.
When You Feel Defeated, Remember This
When I first started homeschooling my child, an experienced homeschool parent told me this: "You're not going to make your kid dumber." And I've found this to be true. Like anything, homeschooling can be challenging, but with a little practice, you'll learn to trust yourself and discover that kids truly are always learning and gaining new skills.