Understand and Set Home Learning Goals
The first step in getting organized and preparing for a successful homeschooling experience is to understand and set home learning goals. Establish a vision of what family members hope to achieve, both academically and developmentally, during home learning sessions.
In setting goals, consider both the needs of the student and parents and the available resources needed to make them a reality. Quality, holistic home learning experiences should be positive and meaningful, so be sure to set realistic, achievable goals that supports learning in many areas beyond simple academics. Once goals have been established, it’s important for both parents and students to discuss their expectations.
Parents should ensure that expectations for both themselves and their children are reasonable and attainable. It’s important for both parties to understand what each other is responsible for, as well as the consequences of not living up to expectations.
This will help eliminate misunderstandings from the onset. Lastly, create a plan of action. The plan should include the length and frequency of learning sessions, establishing a schedule that everyone in the family can adhere to, and the resources necessary to meet the established goals.
Create a Positive Learning Environment
Creating a safe and comfortable learning space is essential in order to support the successful home learning experience. It is important to carve out a dedicated learning area that is free of distractions.
This can be a corner in the home or even a completely separate space. It should be tailored to meet the specific needs of each family member. Establish specific learning times and spots and announce them to family members and guests visiting the home.
No matter the size of space, it is important to make it inviting and comfortable for each family member. Placing windows with natural light, having a surrounding theme of colors or artwork, and displaying pictures of friends or family members can help create a non-threatening and positive home learning environment.
Each student should also have access to various quality learning materials and resources, such as office supplies and technology. In addition to a dedicated learning environment, parents and family members must put into place measures of discipline and structure. Clearly state verbal and/or written rules for both parties to refer to and agree to follow, such as volumes that should be kept during lessons and appropriate behaviors in the home.
These boundaries create a sense of organization and familiarity, helping family members stay on track during home learning sessions.
Establish Routines and Habits
As with the traditional school setting, consistency and routine are key components in setting up home learning environments for success. Set up a combination of group and individual work times and to create an atmosphere conducive to learning.
Consider implementing a rewards system for positive behaviors and accomplishments, such as completing tasks on time, or providing favorite activities for breaks. Establishing specific routines and habits can be difficult for both parents and students at first, but persistence is key. Working together to develop a system of cues and feedbacks can be beneficial, such as providing verbal affirmations and celebrating successes.
Additionally,structuring recipes and cooking activities during breaks can provide a hands-on learning opportunity while also sparking engagement.
Provide Quality Instruction
High-quality instruction is one of the most important components of successful home learning experiences. If the parents are not specifically educated in the subject areas, explore the range of instructional help and educational materials available to support their individual needs. Parents should consider employing a tutor, a teacher, or a support group well-versed in the topics being presented for quality instruction.
Credentials, experience, and references are important to consider prior to committing. Additionally, resources from agencies and organizations such as libraries, local universities, community centers, and after-school programs can provide free or low-cost services to support homeschool parents.
Online resources and materials, such as videos, virtual classes, and books, can be a great way to introduce core subjects and electives from the comfort of home. Being able to adjust topics, subjects, and/or resources to meet the needs and interests of individuals is a key part of homeschooling’s effectiveness.
Foster A Sense of Connection
Fostering a sense of connection and meaningful relationships during home learning sessions is also a key aspect in successful homeschooling experiences. Quality family time, art and music activities, outdoor settings, and virtual connections through Zoom and other video conferencing tools can help encourage social interaction between family members.
Parental involvement and mentoring can be particularly beneficial. In addition to serving as a role model, this role can also help monitor learning progress, provide necessary guidance and direction, and motivate and support each family member on a personal level. Setting aside time to discuss different philosophies, interests, and topics can also help foster and maintain meaningful connections between family members.
Know Your Resources
It is important for parents and students to be aware of their available resources prior to starting homeschooling. Researching educational resources such as textbooks, online activities, and virtual field trips can provide a great opportunity for academic growth and engagement.
Additionally, any academic support system or individual providing instruction should have the necessary accreditations and qualifications. In order to get the help students need, let the community know that your family is homeschooling. Connecting with other local homeschool families and organizations can help families make new friends, find mentors, and participate in social activities in a safe and secure environment.
There is no substitute for the support of a local homeschool community and seeking out those resources should be a priority.
Record Proper Documentation
In order to get the most out of the home learning experience, it is important to properly document each family member’s home learning journey. This includes keeping records of curriculum, lesson plans, grades, attendance, and progress reports.
Document each family member’s individual progress and goals and ensure that plans adjust accordingly. In addition to providing accountability, detailed records of ongoing student progress will also help families and professionals evaluate the success of the homeschooling program as a whole. Consistent evaluation and review of progress and future plans can help with adjustments and the development of new strategies to meet individual goals.
Remain Flexible
Flexibility is key to successful and positive homeschooling experiences. As the homeschooling journey progresses, plans and goals may need to be adjusted as necessary.
Being flexible and allowing changes to be made as needed can be a great way to ensure that everyone is on the same page. Students may want to explore different learning styles and adjust their courses according to what works best for them. The important thing is to remain open to using a combination of different approaches, such as learning outdoors, adjusting schedules, and taking breaks as necessary.
Celebrate Every Success
Celebrations are always appropriate and should be a part of every homeschooling experience. Celebrations should be meaningful, tailored to individual goals and interests, and, of course, fun.
Parents can use this time to thank their children for their hard work and reaffirm their commitment to the home learning journey. Depending on the goals and interests, celebrations can take many forms, such as a special activity, family outing, or even a traditional party. Using this type of stimulus gives students of all ages something to look forward to each term, as well as a greater understanding that learning can—and should—be a fun and shared experience.
Conclusion
Starting the homeschooling journey can be a daunting task, but with some organization and planning, families can be successful in providing positive learning experiences. Being aware and prepared for the various facets of the experience, from setting learning goals and establishing routines, to quality instruction, foster connection and record-keeping, will help ensure families are ready for a successful start and long journey in homeschooling.