When I refer to toddler I mean any child that is able to, well, toddle around the house. Sometimes even the ones who are crawling because as you know, they will and do get into Every. Single. Thing. Watching a toddler is a job in and of itself. So how are we supposed to homeschool our older ones with toddlers underfoot? I’m still trying to figure this one out. But, since I am still in the thick of it, I will share a few insights that I hope will be helpful to those who have may wondering if this whole homeschooling with toddlers in the house thing is actually doable. Let me be the first to tell you, it is.
Have A Chat With The Older Ones
Sit them down. Explain to them that in order to make this work, they need to work on being patient. They need to expect interruptions and be willing to accept the fact that you might need to run and change a diaper, work on potty training or clean up an epic spill in the middle of teaching them about ratios and percentages. Let them know that you understand that it might be frustrating, especially because it used to be different. Most likely you were able to give them your undivided attention in years past but know your time and energies have to be rearranged. Remind them that this does not mean you love them any less and that you appreciate the hard work that they put forth in their school work.
Include The Little Ones
This might sound daunting. And it is if you expect to have a toddler sit with you during the entire school day with their hands folded and their listening ears turned on. But, if you pick a subject or two and let them sit in, it is great for their self esteem. Toddlers want to feel included. They look up to the older ones and whatever they are doing, is awesome. At least in their eyes. So instead of just letting them play all day, let them join in, at least for a bit. For example, right now I let my two year old sit in during our Bible lesson. It is usually only ten minutes or so. He also is able to sit in during our read aloud, right now we are working through Caddie Woodlawn. I usually only have him sit for a few minutes and let him color or draw. He loves to be with the big kids but after about five minutes he is ready to go play. Which is fine though because at least he had his opportunity to “do school” with the big kids and know that he is an important part.
Set Aside Special Time
Even though your toddler is not officially “preschool” age, he is still ready to learn in a structured manner for at least a few minutes a day. With my toddlers I don’t formulate an actual schedule but I do take time to intentionally go over letters, numbers, colors, and parts of the body when I can. Once they are about two and a half or three I will start to have them do more structured coloring rather than scribbling and call it “school” for them. I also will pick up some workbooks for them them at the dollar store and go through it, a page a day. It might only be a few minutes or so but a few minutes, done every day can go a long way.
Let Them Play!
Although I am not a fan of just letting my toddler roaming the house at free will while I am doing school, I am a fan of structured play. At this age, as we all know, toddlers learn through play. I have several designated areas in the home where I will allow my toddler to play while we are doing school. A play area on the back porch, in the living room, in the kitchen and bedroom. I will rotate the areas depending on where we are doing school or if he needs a change of scenery. He is expected to stay in that area but he is allowed to play with approved toys.
