Tips to Overcome Challenges in Homeschooling
Homeschooling can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but there are times when homeschool gets hard. Whether your little learners are struggling or your homeschooling plans just aren’t going as smoothly as you hoped, it’s important to have strategies in place to navigate these challenges. In this post, we’ll explore some valuable tips to help you overcome difficulties and keep your homeschooling journey on track.
1. Meter Your Expectations:
Setting realistic expectations is crucial. If you’re expecting your young child to sit through a long math session or read a lengthy book, you might be setting both yourself and your child up for frustration. Meter your expectations and adjust them based on your child’s age, attention span, and learning style.
2. Build in a Buffer:
Life can be unpredictable, and homeschooling rarely goes exactly as planned. To avoid feeling overwhelmed, plan for more weeks of schooling than you need in a year. This buffer will allow you to account for days when things don’t go as smoothly and still stay on track.
You can find all of the curriculum pieces we are using this year HERE
3. Be Consistent:
Consistency is key to successful homeschooling. Establish a regular routine for your homeschooling sessions, try to start at the same time each day. This predictability helps children feel more comfortable and engaged with their lessons.
4. Take a Break:
When homeschooling gets hard and your child is frustrated or upset, take a break. A short break can help reset the mood and allow both you and your child to cool off and regain focus. Offer a snack, step outside for a breath of fresh air, or simply do something fun to lighten the mood.
5. Just Add Water:
Water has a remarkable calming effect on both children and adults. A glass of water or a quick hand wash can work wonders when the going gets tough. For younger children, a wet paper towel can be a magical solution for minor frustrations.
6. Change Your Scenery:
When homeschooling becomes monotonous or challenging, consider changing your learning environment. A simple move from the kitchen table to the living room, or even taking a short field trip to a nearby park or library, can make learning more engaging and exciting.
7. Incentivize:
Incorporate rewards and incentives to motivate your child. Whether it’s the promise of a special treat, extra playtime, or a small prize for completing a challenging task, incentives can encourage your child to stay focused and accomplish their goals. We all love a good reason to celebrate!
8. Move the Finish Line:
If a day’s lessons are particularly challenging, consider moving the finish line closer. Focus on accomplishing less but doing it well. It’s better to complete a portion of the curriculum successfully than to struggle through the entire day and leave everyone feeling frustrated. Remember that it is so important to end the day WINNING!
9. Know When to Quit:
Sometimes, it’s best to admit that a curriculum or teaching method just isn’t working. Be willing to pivot, change your approach, or even consider switching to a different curriculum that better suits your child’s learning style and needs. I am a shameless quitter and have no problem abandoning the recommended path if it will help a curriculum piece to better serve us.
Homeschooling can be a wonderful journey, but it’s not without its challenges. The key to success is flexibility, adaptability, and finding solutions to overcome difficulties. By metering your expectations, building in a buffer, and utilizing these strategies, you can make your homeschooling experience more enjoyable and productive for both you and your child. Remember that the goal is not just academic success but also maintaining a positive and nurturing environment in your home. You are all family and it is important to still enjoy each other at the end of the homeschool day!
