Tips From a Homeschooling Mom

TIPS FROM A HOME SCHOOLING MOM

PART II

BY SARA RAYVYCH, MSED

Ithink it’s a given that most parents (and those people who aren’t parents) are overwhelmed at this time. There are so many things to juggle, all while dealing with your own stress, that overseeing schoolwork feels impossible. I often get asked how I homeschool multiple kids and teach all of them. Homeschooling is very different from the current schooling at home for our yeshiva students but I will try to adjust my answer to hopefully make juggling a little easier for parents. Additionally, each family and their needs are so different that no article can possibly cover everyone.

I will start this by stating that prioritizing is crucial with juggling. The less you try to juggle, the more ability you have to focus on each need. This may not be the time to organize your sock drawer. See what’s a priority and close your eyes to the rest.

ORGANIZATION

It’s a given that an organized household will run smoother than a disorganized one. It’s surprising how much time can be wasted each day just trying to locate supplies and books. It saves time and prevents unnecessary stress when kids can easily access their supplies. Pencils, crayons, and similar items can either be organized in a central place, such as on the table or counter. Alternatively, kids can have their own bin or supply box holding their personal supplies, all stored in a central location. Tablets, phones, and other technology can all be stored in one location or charging center.

To make it easier to see at a glance who owns what, we have assigned a different color to each child’s schoolwork. Their school books, supplies, and everything else they need for school are stickered with, or purchased in, their color. Colored tape, sharpies, or even nail polish can be used instead. It saves us time when it comes to finding and putting away supplies and gives younger kids more independence to know what is theirs. Schedules can be highlighted with the appropriate color to show kids quickly who is scheduled for each slot. This may help parents who are trying to oversee multiple conference calls and zoom classes.

TODDLERS

Toddlers (and preschoolers) get their own topic. Little ones love to be involved, and they often get in the way. I usually find that once the novelty of a new situation wears off, they stop being so interested in what the other kids are doing. Until then, I often assign them their own “work.” Their “work” can be anything from coloring books to puzzles. I put their

“work” (labeled with their color) in the same spot as their older siblings’ schoolwork. They feel very important having their own work, and it can keep them busy for a bit. As a last resort, distraction is a surprisingly effective tool with bored toddlers; simply direct them to a toy or other item of interest. When they need attention, as opposed to being bored, I find that little ones need lots of physical affection and just holding them while I assist another child keeps them calm. I’ve nursed a baby while doing work with another child. It’s not the easiest but it beats a meltdown and meets everyone’s needs simultaneously.

MULTIPLE AGES AND STAGES

When homeschooling, I have the ability to choose work that is geared towards more independent learning. When schooling at home, you don’t