HOW TO BE SMART ABOUT HOME SCHOOLING

1. Create a well-defined learning space together with the children

Your home is your children’s new school! Give them a sense of ownership and a new routine by helping them to create name tags, door labels and exercise books.

Think about making your children wear the same uniform they usually have at school. It will help them to understand that they will be asked to do similar things to school, albeit in a different space.

Be creative! At home, you won’t have a blackboard or school desks, but you may find alternative solutions. Find markers that write on glass or plastic and your fridge can become your new whiteboard.

2. Set a routine and match it with your calendar

When home schooling for a long time, it’s important to set a schedule. A weekly plan normally works well, giving everyone a degree of certainty and stability.

Try to combine your agenda with your children’s needs. You could take a break together late in the afternoon if your workload is lower. In the morning, they can do their homework while you make calls or work at your laptop.

Move! Don’t forget to find the time to do some physical activity. Music and interactive videos can be great.

3. Prioritise subjects based on their needs and your skills

Core subjects are important but feel free to add a personal touch to the schedule. This is probably your first experience as a teacher so if you are able to teach them a new language or how to play a musical instrument then do so. One of the most important things for children to learn is how to learn.

Also remember that there are lots of ways to learn things, including by watching documentaries or movies.

4. Use technology… properly

Electronic devices can be distracting so set a good example by keeping them off the table while your children are studying.

Videos and online games can be very effective but don’t forget that technology can be used to bridge the distance between people too. Talk with other parents and organise conference calls during which children can interact and share the new things they have learnt. This can both reinforce the learning process and improve social skills.

5. Use (the right) incentives

Keeping your children motivated without a school, classmates and marks can be challenging, so try to create an efficient reward system. Using candies, chocolate and additional “screen time” may work for a limited amount of time, but it can be harmful in the long term both for your children’s nutrition and habits. Little medals, award ceremonies and gift certificates can be more effective.

Don’t forget to “start with the why.” Explain why all the efforts they are making are necessary and what they will gain from it.

6. Don’t be hard on yourself

We are all facing new challenges and this may cause stress levels to rise. Remember that your children may also be affected by the situation so take some time out, both for them and for yourselves. Watch a movie, cook with them or play board games. Spending time with your family can be the best remedy against the difficult period we are in.

This is also an opportunity for your children to learn more about solidarity, the common good and civic responsibility. Teaching them why it is important to help each other is a lesson for life!

7. Look at the world from another perspective

Spring is here, so ask your children to take care of some plants and to observe the daily progress of the flowers blooming. Look at the shadow moving according to the different times of the day or watch the insects on your balcony and discuss the seasons. These simple experiences can bring children closer to nature, even if they are at home.