I recently spoke to a customer on the phone about the overall day-to-day function of a homeschool mom. She was overwhelmed with the duties of motherhood: homeschooling multiple children of all different ages, daily household duties, appointments, and just keeping the household running smoothly, in general. My kids are now all grown; however, I remember feeling the same way. My day rarely worked out perfectly like I thought a stellar homeschooling day should operate. Questions would run through my mind such as, “Am I doing enough on a day-to-day basis?” “How do I juggle teaching older and younger children?” These are valid questions most homeschoolers often ask themselves. The good news is your children are still learning a great deal regardless of your doubts. However, what are some practical things you can do to feel less overwhelmed and more confident in the homeschool year?
Take some time for organizing. The day runs more smoothly when your homeschool day is organized. It is helpful for each child to have his/her own space for their curriculum. Also, you might set up a “workbox” for each child to keep their daily assignment sheet or planner, worksheets that can be done during independent time, or any other specific daily task. Also, creating a weekly schedule will help you tremendously. Your schedule doesn’t have to be rigid; however, having some sort of a daily plan will keep you on track. This can involve your children helping with household tasks. Being consistent about starting at the same time everyday will ensure the whole family is getting used to routine. Try to set aside time to keep up with grading the older students’ assignments (especially math) daily so they can stay on task.
Combine subjects when it is feasible. In the elementary years, it is easier to combine subjects such as history, science, and Bible. This saves you a lot of time and it is also enjoyable learning together. Older kids will be expected to do more than the younger ones, but the little ones will still be picking up some of the content. You can meet each child at their level. For example, maybe the younger child can color a picture while the older student writes a summary paragraph about the lesson.
Prioritize your time. Your days will be busy. There is rarely a day when you will accomplish everything you intend to get done. Each year is unique and will bring a different challenge or success. Begin each day tackling the core subjects first. When you have multiple children of different ages, realize you may not get to do everything with your littles that you were able to do with your older children when they were younger. However, when they get older, you will hopefully have more time with them in the upper levels. They are still learning a great deal by being in the homeschool environment. Nevertheless, it is important to try to set aside individual time with each child. Prioritizing activities outside the home is also wise.
Establish learning bins with littles. When taking time with older children, your younger ones can cause distraction. Putting together some learning bins that are only used during these times will be a tremendous help. For example, you could have a seek-and-find bin filled with beans or rice with scoops and hidden treasures in the bin. There can be a LEGO® basket or you can make themed bins according to the month or holiday. There can be a basket of picture books only during this time or you could put together foam or clay bins. The possibilities are endless!
I hope you find some encouragement simply knowing you are not alone. Finding the support of another homeschooler is also worth its weight in gold. Being able to talk to someone that can relate is always a huge help. This busy schedule is only for a season. Even though it is crazy, try to enjoy the benefits of this time with your children. ~ Gina
Helpful Resources:
M.O.M. — Master Organizer of Mayhem
Academic Planners: A Tool for Time Management
