Just started and school's already behind?

Ha, do I know the feeling. But don’t panic. The first day (and really the whole transition of getting back in the groove of school) throws everyone off a little. But syllabi usually have the first days go pretty easy, so take advantage of that and don’t stress about being perfect. You’ll need that energy much more, later in the year. For now just make it your goal to get comfortable with doing school—don’t worry if you’re not yet in a smooth system.

A couple more tips for staying on track this early:

1. Do your best to be caught up by the end of each week.

If you find that you aren’t, I would recommend your child spending some time on Saturday to just do school. If after two weeks of focused work (approximately 4-7 hours/day depending on grade level and workload), this hasn’t resulted in staying caught up, assess how long your student is spending on each subject. It’s probable that at least one subject is taking longer than it should.

2. Set time limits.

If the above situation is the case, set a realistic time limit for your child and hold him/her to it. At the end of the time limit, that work is done and ready to be graded. Even though this may result in a lower grade than students are capable of, it will introduce them to a valuable experience in time management. They should begin to develop a balance between putting an infinite amount of time and energy into a project and being punctual.

3. Focus more resources on more difficult subjects.

After a little time, you should consider whether your student needs extra help in a subject. If so, refocus your student’s and your own energy somewhat more toward that area.

4. Eliminate distractions!

Allow me to emphasize how difficult it is for a student coming off of a fun summer to voluntarily eliminate phone distraction, unscheduled snacks, normal household activities, and conversation with family. (Can you tell I’ve done all those things? 😉) While these things are great and fun, they now have to take their place alongside studies. If it helps and is possible, have your child physically put the phone in a separate room where it won’t be heard. Schedule lunch/snacktimes and let those be free from all school activities. Busy brains need rest!

5. Lastly, don’t be afraid to switch things around.

Really. Anything. Start a little earlier in the day. Use a different room. Or even a different chair. Have your child do an easy subject before math so that by the time he/she finishes math, two subjects will be done; this always made me feel like I’d accomplished more and I was more motivated the rest of the day.

There’s a long year ahead; you have plenty of time to try things. Homeschooling has so much room for adjustments. Use this to your advantage and know that the imperfections are themselves opportunities for both you and your child to grow this year!