The year 2020 has been full of twists and turns. With a global pandemic, one of the most challenging things for parents to deal with is the sudden change with schooling.
The overwhelming majority of parents are new to this homeschooling situation. If you’re a parent who is new to homeschooling and looking for tips, you’re in the right place!
What You Need To Know About Being A New Homeschooling Parent
The first thing we’d recommend is to forget almost everything you thought you knew about homeschooling. It’s likely a fairytale version of what it is.
Now that you’ve got a blank slate for your perspective let’s also mention that pandemic schooling isn’t the same as homeschooling. This is a good thing if you’re worried about being new to all of this.
In most situations, those forced into homeschooling their children due to the pandemic still have teachers and a curriculum to follow. Lean on these resources when you or your student have questions. Teachers have hearts of gold and are likely waiting to hear from you!
1. You’ve Got This – Even If You’re Not An Expert
It can seem overwhelming when you’re getting started. You’re probably thinking, ‘I’m not a teacher. How can I possibly do this?’
Luckily, you don’t have to be an expert or a certified teacher to do this. If you can read, you’ve got this! It is that simple in most cases. Read through the material and co-learn with your student.
2. Get To Know State Laws
Don’t be scared of this. If you’re home learning with your local school, you’re likely covered.
If you’ve elected to go with a homeschool curriculum, make sure to take a look at your state’s educational website. It will lay out the information you need to ensure you’re good to go.
3. It Doesn’t Have To Take A Full 8 Hours
Without lining up for the entire class to go to the bathroom, hundreds of kids to get to the lunchroom and eat, and all of the other “extras” that happen during a regular school day, you get to take control of that time.
That means you are likely going to finish schooling in less than 8 hours.
On the flip side, if your student enjoys a particular subject, you can dig deeper into that subject and let them blossom into their full potential.
4. Make A Schedule And Create A Routine
If tip #3 had you worried and you don’t have time to work and spend a whole day homeschooling, a schedule is going to be your best friend.
Keep in mind that you can change this anytime, but creating a routine can help you, and your student get on track and stay on track. Even if your schedule is basic, having some structure in place can keep things moving along smoothly.
5. Children Learn In Different Ways
Like most things, when it comes to kids, parents tend to compare their kids to other kids. The same can go with adjusting and thriving with homeschooling.
It’s different. It’s new. Your student may be doing better schooling at home. Maybe you had no idea they could be so focused! Or… it could be a struggle, and your straight-A student is now making C grades.
These adjustments take time. Your student may need more social interaction. Maybe they’re bored and not challenged enough. You’ve got to learn what works for you and your student and stick to that. Try not to compare your student’s adjustments with how other students are doing.
As you adjust to being new to homeschooling, keep the tips above in mind. And if you feel that you need a supplement to your homeschooling, a tutor may be right for you and your student. We’d love to talk to you to find out if we can help you find your student’s best solutions. Contact us today for a free consultation!
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