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2020 is a year like no other! With COVID-19 continuing to affect our lives greatly, many parents are choosing to homeschool for the upcoming school year! It seems like a big scary thing if you have never done it before, but Kaitlyn is here to educate us on the subject, calm some of your fears, and offer support.
Welcome to Homeschooling 101 with Kaitlyn!
Please be seated Class and we can get started! Everyone say hello to Mrs. Kaitlyn! She will be teaching us about homeschooling today. If you have any questions that aren't addressed, feel free to reach out to her on instagram! @momsoposh
1. How long have you been homeschooling and why did you decide to homeschool?Â
We have been homeschooling 2 years! It’s weird because I never had any experience with homeschooling. I was public schooled all my life but as soon as I became pregnant with Alyssa, it was immediately on my heart to homeschool her.
2. Is there a separate area for the classroom verses everyday life?
We live in an apartment so she has her own homeschool area but no separate classroom. That will definitely change when we buy a house!
3. What does a daily schedule look like? Is it interchangeable if the schedule doesn't work for other parents?
Usually we wake up, have breakfast and get ready for the day. It helps set our minds up for productivity. We do a couple lessons then take a break. The younger the student, the more breaks and creative play are needed. One thing I have really leaned into is creating habits and not a strict schedule. Every situation and family is different, so a schedule may work better. That’s the beauty of homeschooling-make it work for you!
4. What is your favorite thing about homeschooling?
As I lightly mentioned above, the flexibility is my absolute favorite thing about homeschooling. If she is feeling burned out, we play, go outside, draw, etc. and then get back to it!
5. What online tools have you used when facing a challenge?
Homeschooling can feel isolating and overwhelming at times so I highly recommend getting involved in local homeschool groups. Whether it’s virtual (like Facebook groups) or joining a co-op or field trip groups! It’s so wonderful to be surrounded by parents who know your struggles and it can be very encouraging.
6. Is there any outside lessons or trips you take in additional to the curriculum?
We definitely go to museums, creative learning places and such but we are always learning wherever we go! Whether it’s butterfly or bird watching in the backyard, digging in the dirt to find worms or watching a storm come in. There is also an app I love for technology time and it’s called Sago Mini School( a subscription app like ABC Mouse)
7. What advice would you give to parents deciding to make this change?
Breathe!!! It’s going to be ok! I know I am a mom of a young learner and there are challenges that come with every age. Take breaks, make learning as fun as possible, and don’t put any pressure on yourself. Also, there is one thing I know that every homeschool student/ parent needs to do is STAY ORGANIZED!! Trust me. It will make your life so much easier.
If you need tips, please feel free to reach out. Just give yourself grace and never shy away from asking for advice!! ( Instagram: @momsoposh )
