Are you planning on homeschooling your child? You’re not alone. While there were an estimated 2.5 million homeschoolers in the U.S. pre-pandemic, that number has risen exponentially since 2020. While there are a number of benefits to this approach to education – from a flexible schedule to personalized learning – there are also some challenges for parents and children alike. To help, here are five homeschooling tips for beginners.
Tip #1: Create a Designated Space for Learning
Naturally, one of the first steps is setting up a space for learning. Often, parents think allowing their child to work at their dining table or on their bed will suffice. However, it’s important to create a designated space that is free from distractions. A space that helps your child get into “school mode.” Don’t hesitate to let your child be a part of this creative process too!
Tip #2: Stick to a Daily Schedule
Although homeschooling comes with some much-needed flexibility, it’s important to still stick to a daily schedule. That starts with a consistent oral hygiene regimen in the morning and extends to set learning hours and break times. Not only will this help your child have some structure, but it will also help you get into a routine as well!
Tip #3: Take Learning on the Road
Learning doesn’t have to be boring! If your child is learning about wildlife, then consider taking them to a zoo or local aquarium. If they are learning about U.S. History, then consider taking them to the library or a nearby museum. In short, don’t hesitate to get creative. You can even do fun activities around the house, like baking, to keep their curriculum interesting!
Tip #4: Collaborate with Other Homeschoolers
At first, it may feel like the responsibility of homeschooling rests entirely on your shoulders. Rest assured, it doesn’t have to be that way! Finding other parents who are homeschooling can create a great support system and help guide you if you have any questions along the way. Plus, it can create a fun and safe social circle for your child, ensuring they have plenty of interaction with other kids throughout the week.
Tip #5: Don’t Hesitate to Ease into the School Year
The switch from sleeping in to waking up at 6:30 am can be quite startling for you and your child! For an easier transition, consider starting slow. Maybe the first week you focus on only one or two subjects. Then, every week after that you add another subject into the mix. This can prevent overwhelm and burnout, which is essential for all parties involved.
Hopefully these tips help make the transition into homeschooling easier for both you and your child. That way, the experience is a success both this year and years to come!
About the Practice
At Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we have a children’s general dentist, a pediatric dentist, and an orthodontist. So, it’s safe to say that all of your child’s dental needs are covered here! Whether they need a checkup and cleaning before the school year starts, they’re struggling with a painful toothache, or it’s time for them to get braces, we can help their growing smile stay happy and healthy throughout the years. If you have a question about your child’s oral health or you’d like to schedule an appointment for them, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (860) 224-2419.