Take a deep breath, because you are now wearing multiple hats: parent, teacher, employee, and you might be feeling overwhelmed as you navigate your child’s education. But don’t worry; you’ve always been your child’s most significant teacher. Repeat after me: “I have always been my kid’s most important educator since birth.”
I’ve been homeschooling my three kids for years, and I’m here to support you. Let’s address your fears together.
Understanding District Requirements
School districts everywhere had to pivot to at-home learning on short notice, and many were not prepared for this transition. These are unprecedented times, and the focus should be on ensuring your child is engaged and learning, rather than strictly adhering to the district’s curriculum. Your main priority is to help them meet the minimum requirements while keeping their educational experience enriching.
Feeling Overwhelmed? Here’s What to Do
If your kids are constantly underfoot, take a moment to breathe and sip your coffee, even if it means waking up early to enjoy a quiet minute. Your children have shifted from a structured environment to one of complete freedom. They need time to “decompress” or “de-school.” For a couple of weeks, avoid pushing too hard—allow them to play and adjust to their new normal. Transitioning from a traditional classroom to learning on couches means they need time to adapt.
After the Decompression Phase: Tailoring Education to Interests
Once the initial adjustment is over, dive into what lights a fire in your kids. What are their interests? For instance, if one of your children is fascinated by dinosaurs, use that as a springboard for learning. Explore museum live streams, research, or create projects related to their passions. Even math can be incorporated into everyday activities; baking involves fractions, and board games can teach strategy and counting.
Encourage your kids to maintain a journal about their thoughts and feelings during this time. This practice not only helps them process their emotions but will also be valuable in the future.
Create a Flexible Yet Structured Schedule
Establish a loose daily routine, but be adaptable. If your child is engrossed in a book or engaged in play, let them be. Our homeschooling schedule varies; sometimes we start lessons in the morning and other times in the afternoon. We ensure to engage in learning daily, with breaks as needed. Remember, learning doesn’t have to happen in long blocks; it can be spread throughout the day.
Utilize resources from local institutions like your nearby zoo or the field museum, many of which offer online presentations. These activities provide structure and something exciting for your kids to anticipate.
You are in charge of your child’s education right now—embrace it! This is the perfect opportunity to delve into topics you might not typically cover in school, such as history, economics, or social issues. Use this time to explore subjects like the Vietnam War, LGBTQ+ rights, or even how viruses operate.
You have the tools to guide your child’s education—trust yourself.
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Summary
Transitioning to at-home learning can be daunting, but you are equipped to handle it. Focus on your child’s interests, create a flexible schedule, and use available resources to enrich their education. Remember, learning is everywhere.