As the number of parents who are deciding to homeschool their children grows, the question of how much time they will need to devote to teaching their child inevitably arises. Homeschooling can be a huge commitment and many parents feel overwhelmed by the thought of taking on teaching their child almost full time. The amount of time a family needs to dedicate to homeschooling really depends upon a variety of different factors, and an individual family’s homeschooling journey may look vastly different from another.
In this article, we’ll look at fifteen different questions relating to how much time a parent needs to spend teaching their child when they homeschool. We’ll discuss topics ranging from the different types of homeschooling, how to manage homeschooling along with work and family life, as well as considerations for parents of children who have special needs.
What Are the Different Types of Homeschooling?
Firstly, it’s important to understand that there is no one single approach to homeschooling, and different families choose to homeschool in a variety of different ways. Among the most common types of homeschooling are: traditional homeschooling, unschooling, Waldorf homeschooling, Charlotte Mason homeschooling, Montessori homeschooling, and more. Traditional homeschooling follows a structure and routine similar to the school day with curriculum and daily lesson plans.
Unschooling, on the other hand, is much more flexible and there is less of an emphasis on structure, instead allowing the child to pursue their own interests and learn through experience. Waldorf homeschooling uses creative methods like storytelling and hands-on activities to teach.
Charlotte Mason homeschooling emphasizes the importance of literature and the natural world. Montessori homeschooling utilizes a tailored learning plan that fits the needs of each individual child.
There are certainly pros and cons associated with each type of homeschooling, and the amount of time a parent needs to devote to each type of homeschooling will vary. When deciding which type of homeschooling fits best for a family, it’s important to consider factors such as the parents’ availability and levels of comfort as well as the child’s learning style and interests.
Can Parents Homeschool and Work at the Same Time?
The answer to this question ultimately depends upon the circumstances of the family. For some families the answer is yes, but it involves careful planning and a lot of discipline.
If a parent is able to schedule their day across both homeschooling and working responsibilites, homeschooling can be an achievable goal. The best way to approach this is to make a daily, weekly, and monthly schedule that includes the times when work and homeschooling will both be conducted, and stick to it. This can be especially important for a student who is homeschooling at a competitive institution, as certain deadlines may need to be met.
It’s also important to remember to prioritize quality time with the family as well, as striking a balance between homeschooling, working and family life is key. Scheduling some time each day where the family can do something fun together such as going on a nature walk, playing a game, or just talking is important to help maintain a positive, relaxed environment.
What Are Some Tips that Parents Can Implement to Make Homeschooling Easier?
In order to make homeschooling run as smoothly as possible, there are a few key tips that parents can keep in mind. Firstly, keep the homeschooling space as organized and uncluttered as possible.
It’s important to keep in mind that implementing a space that is organized and free from distractions can help boost the student’s productivity levels. It’s also important for parents to be consistent in the homeschooling and implement a daily routine that their student can stick to and follow. This doesn’t necessarily mean a rigid regiment of schooling from 9am-3pm, but rather a structure and routine that suits the student’s needs.
Parents should also take special consideration of their student’s mental, emotional and physical health. Homeschooling can be a tiring and intensive period of time and so it’s important to make sure your student is getting a good night’s sleep and engaging in physical activity.
Brain breaks are also important to help the student relax and refocus.
What Options Are Available For Teaching Special Needs Children?
When it comes to homeschooling a child with special needs, it’s important for parents to recognize that the amount of time they may need to dedicate to teaching their child will likely be higher than usual. It’s important for parents to recognize the unique needs of their child and research options which can help support them. For children who require therapies and treatments, it’s important to create a schedule that fits both the needs of the child and the home environment.
Parents can also look for online resources and support groups which can provide additional insight and information specific to the needs of their student. Some schools also offer homeschooling programs specifically tailored for children with special needs, and there are also programs which offer access to additional services such as speech and occupational therapy.
In some cases, parents can access additional resources such as specialized tutors or educational software to help their child reach their full potential.
Concluding Remarks
Homeschooling can be a great way for parents to provide their child with an education, and can bring families closer together. However, it’s important to recognize that there is no simple answer to the question of how much time is needed when homeschooling.
The amount of time parents need to spend on teaching their child depends upon a variety of factors such as the method of homeschooling, the parents’ availability and familiarity with the curriculum, as well as the student’s unique needs. By being aware of these factors and implementing tips such as creating an organized, distraction-free environment, making sure the student is getting a good night’s rest, and understanding the unique needs of the student, parents can ensure that any time invested in teaching their child when they homeschool will be fruitful and beneficial.