Home-schooling is becoming increasingly popular, with more parents understanding how the value of it is potentially immense in terms of the educational opportunities it provides. With more and more families across the globe seeking to enrich their kids’ lives with other, arguably more effective, forms of learning, there are some common issues that many homeschoolers come across.
In this article, we will explore some of the most common issues homeschoolers face and how these issues can be addressed to ensure the best possible education for our children.
1. Socialization Issues
It is a common misconception that homeschooled children do not have a social life. While socialization is not as direct and in-person as traditional forms of schooling, it is not impossible for homeschoolers to form meaningful relationships with others. Many families form networks with other homeschoolers, find local playgroups, and even participate in digital classes with other students to enhance their social connections.
Parents can also seek out activities outside of the home to ensure that their child has the opportunity to connect with other students.
2. Struggling with Self Motivation
Not having an on-site teacher or authority figure to answer to can make it difficult for some children to stay motivated. In traditional schooling, a student is driven by the prospect of praise, interaction with the teacher and their peers, and the feeling of accomplishment from completing tasks.
Without those familiar motivators in a homeschooling setting, some children may find it hard to stay focused on completing tasks. However, there are several ways to ensure that your child stays motivated while learning from home. As their parent, it is important to create a sense of structure, positively reinforce them when they make progress, remain steadfast in their expectations, and reward their hard work.
3. Finding Appropriate Curriculum
Finding the right curriculum for each student is crucial for developing a good homeschooling experience. Every student is different so there is no one-size-fits-all approach to finding the right curriculum. Parents should consider their children’s individual strengths and weaknesses, how they learn best, any special accommodations they may need, and their long-term educational plans.
There is a wide range of curriculum options out there so it is important for parents to research thoroughly and consult with other homeschoolers or educational professionals before settling on a curriculum.
4. Avoiding Burnout
Burnout can be a real issue for homeschoolers. There is no set schedule of classes so it can be hard to manage the workload and keep up with the pace of learning.
Parents must be mindful of their children’s individual strengths and weaknesses when putting together a homeschool schedule. Schedule in plenty of breaks and activities outside of school, such as physical activity and playing with friends, to ensure that their children remain engaged and motivated.
5. Managing Distractions at Home
Homeschoolers typically lack the provided structure of a traditional classroom. While this can be beneficial in some respects, it can also mean that children have more opportunities to be distracted, both by their own impulses and environmental factors like siblings or technology. Parents must set clear expectations for their children and provide them with a conducive environment for learning.
Limiting screen time, creating a designated workspace, and utilizing blocking software can help minimize distractions.
6. Dealing with the Social Stigma
Unfortunately, homeschoolers often face a significant social stigma from peers, parents, and teachers that can be hard to cope with. Many people may not understand or accept the value of homeschooling and may be judgmental or dismissive of the efforts of homeschoolers.
It is important to help your child cope with these reactions by developing their self-esteem and by providing a safe space to talk about their frustrations.
7. Balancing Off-Screen Learning
Homeschoolers, just like their peers in traditional schooling, tend to spend a considerable part of their days on-screen. This, coupled with extracurricular activities and the limitations of the home setting, can make it difficult to find time for traditional lessons, like reading and writing.
Parents must ensure that their children are getting enough off-screen time by facilitating activities that do not require technology as well as blocking out time for meaningful reading and writing lessons.
8. Adapting to Changes Quickly
Homeschooling requires agility and flexibility as curriculums and expectations are constantly changing in light of current events. Whether it is a global pandemic that temporarily disrupts the education system or just an abrupt shift in your weekly planning, parents have to be able to adapt to the new circumstances quickly and effectively.
Setting aside regular planning and review sessions can help to demonstrate how to respond to changes and how to appropriately adjust your educational plans.
9. Having Limited Resources
Homeschoolers may face a lack of resources, as most of the resources designed for education are geared towards traditional learning. This makes it difficult for parents to find tools and materials that are tailored to their children’s specific needs.
Luckily, there are a variety of online resources available for homeschoolers that may provide a solution for this issue.
10. Handling Unforeseen Circumstances
Another common issue homeschoolers face is managing unforeseen circumstances. Unlike traditional schools that have a built-in system to respond to crises and disruptions, homeschooling can feel precarious and uncertain at times.
However, it is important to remember that many homeschoolers have successfully navigated through difficult times and have come out the other side strong and prepared. Despite the challenges, homeschooling is a viable option and preparing a contingency plan can help you to deal with any unforeseen circumstances.
11. Working with a Small Budget
Homeschoolers often have to work with a limited budget as there are often fewer resources for homeschoolers. It is important for parents to set a budget for their homeschooling similarly to any other educational or extracurricular activity.
Consider what is a realistic amount to spend each year, how to spend it, and where to allocate the funds to ensure that homeschooling is still feasible.
12. Scheduling Around Other Activities
Being homeschooled often requires families to fit their education around things like family obligations and extracurricular activities. While these things are important, it can be hard to manage homeschooling in addition to the hectic day-to-day activities.
It is important for parents to make sure their children’s education is still their top priority and to manage their busy lives accordingly.
13. Finding Support
One of the biggest issues for homeschoolers is the lack of a supportive community which can make homeschooling feel isolating at times. Parents must take the initiative to find like-minded individuals who can provide support and guidance for their homeschool experience. Local homeschool groups, online forums, and virtual classes with other homeschoolers can provide the social support and resources that are often lacking in homeschooling.
Conclusion
Although there can be some challenges to homeschooling, with the right resources and support, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience for families. By addressing and managing the common issues that arise with homeschoolers, parents can ensure that their child receives the best possible education.
With the right resources and guidance, homeschooling can be a meaningful and enriching experience for both children and their families.