There has been a global pandemic over the last few months disturbing the free flow of activities ranging from working, down to pupils/students also attending schools. 

There are a few benefits and challenges faced by mothers parents with  this ‘temporary home schooling’. So far, from observations and news, there seem to be some common scenarios:

Parent vs. Teacher – One of the most common home-schooling challenges deals with a change in the role from parent to teacher. While Mom can be playful, cuddly, and fun; Teacher Mom needs to ensure the children are paying attention and following through with their schoolwork. This is a delicate balance that many families find challenging and behaviour issues can be common.

Over-Scheduling – Many home schoolers find that it’s easy to get involved in a lot of activities in their area/ online. Local street/ estate football matches, online -home-work from school, household activities and chores, scheduled conference call meetings with family and friends, family devotion time, food time…the list goes on and on.

While it’s wonderful to make time to participate in these activities and form connections with other home-schooling families, be sure to keep your priorities in check. Over-scheduling and over-commitment can create a high level of stress for the children, likewise the parents.

Dealing with Doubt – Unfortunately, home-schooling parents face challenges with relatives, friends, and even strangers who are not supportive of home-schooling.

Whether you’re dealing with grandma, Uncle, or the cashier at the neighbours, be sure to keep your cool. Explain how you have been coping with the decision by the government to home-school the children because it’s what is safest for them at the moment. Some parents will certainly do a better job than others, but do not despair. Learn tips from other parents.

Over time, many friends and family members will come to realize that the children are thriving in the home-school situation and some will even become home-school supporters! 

Fears about the legitimacy of learning at home can be calmed by keeping to the approved curriculum the government / the schools have given parents as a guide to tutor the children.

Another helpful strategy is to create “busy boxes” and offer younger children educational activities to keep them entertained. 

Also be sure to involve the younger children in hands-on activities, craft projects, and science experiments (as age appropriate).

• Set clear rules and expectations for learning time and follow through with behavior consequences.

• Create educational activities to help entertain younger children and be sure to include them in hands-on activities for older students.

• Learn to delegate duties.

• Make chores and meal planning part of your home-schooling routine.

Happy home schooling!