Homeschooling can be one of the most stretching yet exciting challenges you can face in your life as a mother. You find that most first time mothers who actually try it only fumble their way through the whole process and at the end of the day, end up being very good at it especially when other kids come along after the first one. But even so, you still need to keep in mind that what works for one mother, may not be as successful if another mamma tries it out. So, that being said, let’s dive in and discuss some strategies you can adapt and try to use if you are the homeschooling type.
1. You can switch curriculum even in between the school year
You also need to know that your child won’t be as efficient and quick at grasping every subject the same way. You will realize that he/she takes in some subjects fast and others slow. After realizing this, you can try and move with your child’s pace. You can also make an attempt and buy some used curriculum whenever you can and also sell the ones you realize aren’t working for you. This way, you will know what works best for your child and go with that.
2. Each child is different and will need a different approach
This doesn’t, however, mean that you have to go out of your mind trying to juggle different math programs for each of your children. You can try out each of the strategies and curriculums like in the first point and go for the one that works best for each child. Then find how you can easily fit the curriculum which is best for each child into your teachings without stressing you or your children.
3. Use a flexible routine which works for your family
Rigid scheduling methods can work you’re your family. Maybe even with one child and not the other. In some cases, it may not work with any child. It is also advisable that you get the best routine fixed into your schedule and ensure both you and your kids are comfortable throughout the whole homeschooling process. This way, you can do the teaching and your children learn without ant stress. The youngest children usually need more attention and work. So, you can always put extra effort on them as well.
4. Having everything done in the morning is probably best
It is a fact that children, and even moms, are usually freshest in the morning. You will find that you go through a lot and get a lot more work done in the morning with your children in the morning than at any other time of the day. Wake up early, prepare and take breakfast and get to work while the mind is still fresh. You will find everything is pretty easy then.
5. School doesn’t have to get done every 5 out of 7 days
With homeschooling, you can go at your own pace or that of your child, and if you are lucky, even see to it that your children finish schooling much earlier than most of the other children do. You are not bound by the many schooling rules. As long as you can do any of the things you do comfortably for both you and your children, then keep going.
6. Keep your toddlers close while homeschooling
You don’t want to have your toddlers crawling or walking about everywhere while you’re bust teaching your older children. It is best that you create a contained space where you can place your toddlers and watch them so you don’t get distracted as you teach.
7. Plan for those challenging times of the day
You can choose this time, usually that hour right before dinner, to allow your youngest children watch some DVD as you focus on dinner preparations. Keep them bust so you can have more time doing house stuff like cleaning. Family videos can be exceptionally fun to watch sometimes.
