Homeschooling is becoming increasingly popular, with more than 2 million children across the United States studying at home. With so many parents and students embracing this style of learning, finding a homeschool routine can be tricky.
The key to finding the best homeschool routine is to tailor it to the individual student and prioritize structure and consistency.
1. Define Your Goals and Objectives
Before beginning a homeschool routine, it is important to define both short-term and long-term goals for the academic year. Ask yourself what you want to achieve and how it ties into your child’s development.
Aim to make sure the goals are realistic and achievable, and create a plan for reaching them. Depending on the age of your child, this could look like developing a list of core subjects for them to cover each week, setting up weekly test and quizzes, or even deciding a timeline in advance for when you will cover a difficult subject.
2. Create a Flexible Schedule
The flexibility of a homeschool routine allows you to adapt it according to your student’s needs. Instead of focusing on traditional school hours, you have the freedom to embrace the schedule and plan your lesson times accordingly.
Some families choose to begin a homeschool day at 9 am and finish by 3 pm, while others prefer more flexible planning and start classes in the afternoons. As homeschooling is often tailored to the individual, parents often prefer to identify their child’s learning issues and focus on those. This means creating a timetable and curriculum which includes a mix of learning styles, such as hands-on activities, audio-visual lessons, or even outdoor exercise and recreational activities.
3. Prioritize Subjects
Structuring a successful homeschool routine requires a focus on the most important subjects. In most states, homeschooling parents are still required to meet state standards, which means having an understanding of each subject and its importance. English and mathematics are core subject areas for any homeschooler, as these are required across many secondary-schools and universities.
Science and social studies can also provide a basis for higher level learning and are often chosen by parents to form the foundation of their child’s learning. At the same time, some parents may find it advantageous to include artistic or ‘enrichment’ classes as part of the homeschool routine, such as music, drama, or foreign language.
Depending on your child’s abilities, as well as their hobbies and interests, it can be useful to find classes or resources which will further develop their skills and passions.
4. Embrace Technology
Technology is revolutionizing the way we learn, and there is no doubt that homeschoolers have access to incredible resources. With the internet, children of all backgrounds have access to a wealth of knowledge and educational platforms, including online discussion forums and language learning apps.
Homeschoolers can now embrace technology as a learning aid and source of activities to keep kids engaged. From watching educational videos and TED Talks, to creating class blogs and notebooks, there are plenty of ways to incorporate technological devices into the classroom.
5. Select the Right Tools
The tools used in your homeschooling class can have a major impact on your student’s learning experience. It is worthwhile to search for tools that both compliment the style of teaching and make learning easier for your student. Look for curriculum programs, apps, and videos related to specific subjects which could be used as extra resources for your student.
Alternatively, integrate interactive activities such as games and puzzles which will encourage learning in a fun and entertaining way.
6. Provide A Variety of Assignments
Having a variety of assignments available to your student adds variety to the homeschool routine and helps to maintain enthusiasm and focus. There are a number of assignments which can be included in a lesson plan, such as reading comprehension, journaling, and short answer questions.
Furthermore, practical tasks such as lab experiments and field trips are great ways to provide a hands-on approach to learning.
7. Embrace Creativity
Creativity and imagination play a major role in a successful homeschool routine. Find ways to incorporate arts and crafts into the curriculum to provide an outlet for students to think innovatively, tell stories, and experiment with ideas.
Drawing and painting, baking, or sewing can make learning come alive, and it serves as an enjoyable break from the standard school routine.
8. Allow for Flexible Learning Hours
If your student does not struggle with attention, it can be beneficial to allow for flexibility in the learning environment. Homeschooling allows for both structure and freedom; instead of sticking to a strict 9 am to 3 pm routine, some students may work better in the afternoon, or even from late at night to early in the morning.
Allowing your student to work during a schedule that works best for them supports their individual needs and can increase focus during learning hours.
9. Balance Social Activities
Socialization is an important part of schooling, and there is still an opportunity to incorporate it in a homeschooling program. With the internet, there are numerous ways to stay connected with friends, families and peers.
Joining online discussion groups and participating in online activities and events are great opportunities to socialize and make new connections. At home, parents can plan activities and field trips, as well as invite other homeschooling families to join them. This is a great way for children to get to know each other and forge lasting connections.
10. Set A Timetable for Assignments
A strict timetable for assignments is a key part of an effective homeschool routine. Allowing students to work on their own schedule has its advantages, but with a planner or daily planner, it is beneficial to assign specific tasks for each day, or even for each hour of the day. This helps to structure your student’s day, giving them a clear overview of which tasks should be completed.
11. Don’t Overload with Work
Overloading with too much work can cause distraction and could potentially lead to burnout. Parents should be aware of signs of stress, fatigue, or a lack of focus in their student’s work, and intervene accordingly.
Too much work can be demotivating, so it is important to moderate workloads and make sure students have enough time to relax, play, and engage in other activities.
12. Let your Student Take the Lead
An effective homeschool routine provides a foundation for learning, but it is up to the student to drive the education process. If a student is excited and interested in learning, they will work harder and stay more engaged.
Parents need to ensure they are there to provide guidance and support, but allow the student to take the lead in terms of their education.
13. Reassess Goals Regularly
Homeschooling requires regular reassessment to establish what objectives have been achieved and which still need to be accomplished. Checking in with the student and parents on a regular basis to review the short-term and long-term goals, and adjust if and where necessary. This allows for the necessary adjustments to be made and helps to keep everyone on track and motivated.
Conclusion: Having the best homeschool routine and setting up goals can help to ensure your child is not overwhelmed or demotivated by their schooling. By allowing for flexibility, encouraging creativity and embracing technology, you can make sure your homeschooler has the ability to learn to the best of their ability.