For those that are homeschooled, it may seem like it is a little easier than traditional schooling. However, keeping the kids focused may not be the easiest task to do. After hours of reading, math, science and all other subjects, the kids probably want to finish up and go play their favorite game, go outside and run around with friends, or just relax in their rooms. Parents are faced with another battle: homework. The last thing your kids want to do after a day of homeschooling. Fortunately, there are ways to get the kids excited to do their homework and approach it with enthusiasm.
Have a Game Plan
You need to have a game plan in mind. Make it part of the daily routine, so when school is over, kids don’t immediately think they are done for the day. They know that they have to “recap” their day of learning. Have a calendar and put all important due dates and tasks that need to be done. At the end of the school day, let them know that it is time to review the calendar for the day and see what needs to be done.
Have a Routine
Don’t try to get kids to do homework the second the school day is done. They just had a long day of focus, and they need time to relax and refocus. The best thing to do is to not let them in front of the computer for a half hour or so. Don’t assign chores, either…more work does not help them refocus for homework time. Encourage them to do a favorite relaxing activity, such as drawing. Schedule a specific time for homework each day.
Find the Right Space
Not everyone does their best work sitting at the kitchen table with the rest of the family bustling about! Set up a designated study area for homework to be done. Make sure it is well lit, and stocked with pens, pencils, paper and other needed supplies.
Be Organized!
Just because you are homeschooling does not make it acceptable for children to leave their folders strewn about, or their workspace in disarray. Set everything up as you would if they were not homeschooled. Folders for each subject, binders, etc. As they complete their assignments, ensure that the child knows to put it in the proper place, so it can easily be accessed when needed. Get kids in the habit of doing this on a daily basis. Digging through piles of paper every time they need to show you a completed assignment is not acceptable.
Make Kids Accountable
Homeschooled kids need to take school just as seriously as non-homeschooled kids. Obligations must be met, work must be done, and it all needs to happen in a timely and efficient manner. Allow them one “emergency”, but teach them that they have to face the consequences of their behavior. If they are having problems, seek advice from the teacher or counselor.
Use Examples From Everyday Life
For example, you can use current events to illustrate historical events. Teach the kids fractions using tonight’s pizza as an example. Make it fun for them.
Let Them Know It Is Ok To Ask For Help
Kids might be scared to admit that they are having trouble. Encourage them to ask for help or clarification when needed. Let them know that they have a support system and should not be scared to use it. For example, they could consult a tool such as Ask Bongo when they need guidance with a hard problem.
Interact With the Online Community Where the Child is Homeschooled
Make sure you are active in the online schooling. Don’t leave kids to tackle this alone. Be as involved as possible and know what is going on at all times.
Hopefully, these tips are helpful for the homeschooled child. Good habits now lead to good habits in the future!
Remember if your kid is ever stuck on a hard question that has even you stumped you can use a free tool such as Ask Bongo to keep everyone from becoming stressed.