If you want your children to keep themselves on schedule, involve them in planning their day in an age-appropriate way. They’ll feel included, valued, and respected—and be more likely to stick to the plan. Especially for younger children, there’s no need to schedule every hour; consider a simple schedule to help kids learn to organize and prioritize their time.
4. Build an Inviting Workspace
A comfortable learning environment can improve focus and decrease fidgeting. Before you get into planning and decorating, start with the essentials: a flat surface, a comfortable chair, and a quiet room. Keep school supplies close by so children can find them without you, and make sure they have somewhere to talk to teachers and classmates that minimizes disruption to the rest of the household. Older, self-directed children and teens may not need to work as close to you as younger children do. Need some inspiration? Check out this collection of study areas that range from dedicated homeschooling classrooms to clever small-space solutions.
5. Remember to Take Care of Yourself
Parents are being asked to do more than ever with online learning, so be gentle with yourself. Avoid making comparisons to other families, especially on social media, and try to keep your plans flexible, especially with young children. Line up a few calming activities for yourself and your family before stress disrupts the day; you’ll feel better knowing what to do if your children are having a tough time, and you can model healthy coping skills for your children to support their emotional development.
Online learning doesn’t have to be chaotic or unpleasant. With coordination, planning, and patience, you can keep your children’s education on track without feeling overwhelmed and the entire family can have a happier fall at home.
