Choosing to home school your child can be a very rewarding venture. However, the largest hurdle to overcome is keeping your child focused on the curriculum at home. Many children find the home setting to be too lax and like children do, they will try to cross established boundaries. Keeping your child focused during homeschooling can be achieved by implementing the following suggestions.
Establish routines and schedules when homeschooling your child. I realize that this seems like common sense, but in order to effectively home school your child it is a must. Children of all ages thrive and depend on structure and schooling is no different. Establishing a schedule and be very clear in enforcing that schedule.
Set specific timelines for each subject and set your expectations accordingly. For instance, if you are working on writing an essay with your child, make certain your child is aware when you want it done. There is nothing wrong with giving them deadlines as long as they are practical. In regards to the “school day” itself, make them aware of when it is time to study and when they are free to do what they choose.
Homeschooled children should receive a recess period. This will allow them the opportunity to break away and absorb the teaching you are giving them. It will also give you an opportunity to take a breather as well.
Field trips pertaining to the curriculum are a great way to allow your children to focus when homeschooling. Interactive experience allows them to absorb the information in ways that they possibly wouldn’t otherwise.
Another great way to keep your child focused is to cater the curriculum to your child. Pay attention to their cues as all children learn differently and who knows your child better than you? Incorporate activities that your child has shown an interest in. It is far easier for children to pay attention to things that they are truly interested in.
Keep your family activities separate from your home schooling. This is easier said than done, but bringing up things that do not necessarily pertain to your child’s homeschooling during “school hours” can only deter their focus. School life and home life should be kept separate. You can always discuss such matters after your homeschooling activities of the day or during lunch.
Regardless of the reasoning behind your choice to home school, keeping your child focused is imperative to their education. You are responsible for ensuring your child gets the best education possible. Utilizing these suggestions can help you keep your child focused during homeschooling.
I have a first grader who is easily distracted, especially during her least favorite subjects-that take concentration ( math, phonics, reading). I am also itroducing my soon to be kindergartener to the school days, and this distracts her as well. I get very frustrated with her, and this doesnt help.
I am very concerned about her progress, or lack of, in these very important subjects.
How do I juggle all of this? I want to give them the best. I need to get her interested and focused. I even tried to let her have some choice. I choose a subject and then she chooses next. I never have a set schedule for the day should I? Have any suggestions?
Comment by Aimee R — March 30, 2009 @ 10:35 am