Some people seem to be able to have a gift for teaching, but others of us need a little or maybe a lot of help. If you feel lost on what to do with the kids at home and with school looking to be closed for the foreseeable future, here are some great resources that can help you keep your kids on track during this crazy time.
Before we get started it is important to mention that homeschool learning is not the same as classroom learning. Homeschool learning does not require a six to eight-hour school day that classroom learning includes. With one on one focused learning and the lack of structure required throughout the day in a classroom. Being at home gives you more flexibility and takes a lot less time.
The standard guideline for learning at home for elementary is one to two hours school per day, for middle school, it is two to three hours of school per day, for high schoolers, it is three to four hours per day. There is no need to wake them up early and start the school day bright and early, the extra rest is good for them. A great start time for “school” each day is 9 AM. So, if they wake up early let them have creative play. You can also give them the option of getting dressed. Kids love getting to go to school in pajama day and now is the perfect time to implement this option.
You can also include them in their learning. Focus on subjects and/or topics they want to learn about. They will be more excited to learn. Make sure to include one hour per day to be outside. Also include an hour of reading time each day. Make sure they continue to do chores and since they are home more you can give them more chores to help out around the house. Maybe you have them help cook dinner. So much math can be learned from cooking and baking.
Here are some more at home learning resources to help you get the upper hand on learning.
This is a free app for kids that promotes learning for kids ages two to seven. It focused on the whole child with core subjects in early literacy, reading, writing, language, and math. These programs allow your kids to play fun educational games while learning.
Scholastic has a free day by day programs with projects to keep kids reading, thinking and growing. For children from pre-K to Grade 6+. It includes daily books to read, a video to watch, plus an activity.
Are you struggling to get your kids to sit still while they learn? The walking classroom has free resources and podcasts that allow you to go for a walk and learn along the way. It will get your kids blood flowing and learn at the same time. It is a win-win.
This online program is for kids from Kindergarten through 12th grade. Each program is based on your kid’s grade level and can help them stay on track with reading, writing, and math. It also includes more activities like games, podcasts, and print outs.
But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids
This is a great podcast for the whole family. Search their podcast episodes to help answer your kid’s questions of why does this do that. And if they haven’t answered your kid’s question yet you can submit your question to be answered.
In times like these you want to keep your kids informed, but also want to protect them. You can find that balance with KidNuz which is a podcast created by moms who are broadcast journalists and offers young listeners five minutes of kid-friendly news followed by a quick quiz. If you are looking for a fun and educational way to start each day this podcast is for you.
This isn’t an online tool, but the resources that come each month make this a great science option from home. Right now, if you sign up for their newsletter you can save 30%. This is a subscription-based service and each month your child receives a dedicated science lesson and the tools/equipment you need to implement it at home. They have crates for every age level.
These are some of the most useful resources I have found to help me get through each day. And some days go good and other days are a struggle to get through. What I have been trying to do is give myself grace. Give my kids grace. And take a break and start over if it gets to be too much for me or my kids. It isn’t an easy adjustment.