Lots of parents are scrambling as schools are closing to help stop the spread of the new coronavirus. Many moms and dads are asking how they’re supposed to teach children at home and thankfully, some homeschooling moms who’ve been there and done that are happy to share their knowledge. Here are their tips to help us homeschool temporarily.
- Hold a family meeting- Heather Bowen,mom of two, says family planning is key. She advises talking to your kids about this new normal to help them understand they still have to complete assignments on time and what’s expected of them.
- Create a daily schedule- Having set hours for school, meals, chores, and free time can help everyone adjust to the routine, suggests Maria Chamberlain, mom of seven who’s been homeschooling for 29 years.
- Ask your school district for support- Find out what resources, supplies, and online platforms are available from your school district and talk to your kids’ teachers to know what they expect in terms of assignments.
- Help kids create a learning environment- Leah Duke, a mom of three who’s been homeschooling since 2004, points out that each child learns differently and she suggests letting them help create their own work space - at a kitchen table, on their bed, or in a living room chair - that works best for them.
- Don't be afraid to bribe 'em- Use incentives like time with electronics or playtime after school work is finished and make expectations clear so they know what it takes to get their reward.
- Take breaks- Having a few minutes of downtime is important and a quick break can help your patience as well as help kids get through a tough assignment.
- Cut yourself some slack- Don’t be too hard on yourself. You’ve been thrown into a new situation that’s unfamiliar and a little intimidating, explains Amber Mathison, founder of ABC’s to ACT’s, and online educational resource. She reminds us that our home “school days” won’t be perfect and that’s okay.
Source:Today