One common problem especially for newer homeschoolers are the woes of
the homeschooling schedule.
More often than not the root of the
scheduling woes are caused by nervousness and the uncertainty of
embarking on such an experience as homeschooling.
Couple this with the
feeling the need to prove to one's self that you can do it and all the
while proving to your critics that you can effectively manage a
homeschool schedule.
Because of these internal driving forces, one of the most common
problems pertaining to the homeschool schedule usually isn't the
lack of activity to fill up the schedule, but rather quite the opposite.
First of all, relax! Know that you will settle into a workable schedule
over time and with some
experimentation.
It will come. With the nature of homeschooling being a
more focused and one on one learning experience for the child, I think
you find that this will leave you more that enough time for your
administrative homeschool duties. And really, with this one on one type
of environment I think you will find that there is much less need for a
completely structured homeschool schedule simply because of the focused
learning leaving much more time for flexibility. Again, it's up to you
and what works for you and your child. Some children thrive on a more
defined schedule while others do better in a more impromptu environment.
Stick with what works and get rid of what doesn't. There is absolutely
no need to stick with a homeschool schedule that just isn't working. Or,
worse yet, stick with a schedule just because some expert has said that
this is the way to go. Be flexible, chop up your homeschooling schedule,
massage it, mold it, experiment with it and soon you'll find your
teaching rhythm with a very comfortable schedule.
Don't be chained to any one idea on homeschool schedules. Try
different ideas. Don't continue trying to work a homeschool schedule
that doesn't work. Be pragmatic and go with what works and you will
avoid burning yourself out.
