Bethany's World

We’re all under immense pressure right now. Some of us are struggling with finances, others are worrying about their health and the health of loved ones, some are facing an uphill employment battle and the rest of us are trying to maintain a happy homelife whilst feeling crushed under the strangling weight of it all. So, when we have to throw home-schooling into the mix, it’s hardly surprising that there are days when it all gets too much, for both you and your children.

We’re living in unprecedented times, which means we’re having to call on our inner strength to get through the days. Home-schooling can rapidly add to these feelings of dread and pressure, especially when things don’t go as you planned. Maybe your little ones won’t stop arguing, no one will do as they’re told or maybe you’re convinced that you just can’t teach them well enough. 

It’s reassuring to know that you’re not alone in this difficult period. So, I’ve gathered some helpful tips for when home-schooling gets too much to cope with.

Switch to a more relaxing activity

Sticking rigidly to the lessons your kids have been set doesn’t always work. So, try switching to an activity that’s equally stimulating but also relaxing. Perhaps you could print some simple activity sheets for them to complete, or some colouring pages – you’ll find a great selection of Canon printer ink here, just click the link. This new printed material could still be maths or topic-based, but taking a different approach might be enough to engage their minds into “learning mode” if their concentration has been lacking. As long as your children are stimulated and happy, that’s enough!

Delegate some different tasks

Issues in home-schooling often arise because children are bored. That’s not a reflection on your teaching skills, it’s just the way it goes sometimes. When all their favorite distractions are in the other room, it’s only natural for their minds to wander. By keeping boredom at bay, you can stimulate their desire to learn so try delegating some different tasks such as helping you fold laundry, baking some sweet treats, or other household chores instead.

Be kind to yourself

You are not a teacher. You might have a glittering academic career and be sitting pretty atop your chosen career ladder, or you may have left school with no qualifications, it doesn’t matter. You’re not a qualified teacher, and so you should be kinder to yourself. Try not to focus on the things you’re not finding the time to complete and instead, focus on all the things you’re doing right and the amazing progress and work you and your children are doing.

And finally, remember that family time is still important

Don’t be fooled into thinking that a morning spent trying to decipher a mathematic problem together counts as quality time. During this difficult period, family time has never been more important. So, make sure you’re spending time together away from your classroom and taking care of each other. Spend some time outdoors, exercise together, watch a movie, dance, or even play video games together. Being able to switch off from home-schooling is just as important as engaging with it.