While homeschooling has been popular across the UK for several years, the pandemic has shed a brighter light on it. Today, parents are increasingly looking into esteemed online learning programs for their children.
Switching from conventional schooling to homeschooling is a great way to put your child’s safety and well-being first. Online learning enables children to progress academically and develop key personal growth skills without being subjected to school bullying and/or harassment. Parents can also rest assured that their children will enter a healthy online learning environment that doesn’t put them at risk of contracting the COVID-19 virus.
If you’re considering making the switch to online learning, make sure you prepare yourself for the adjustment phase. When navigated with care and adroitness, this process can become a lot easier for parents. Use this guide to get started.
1. Have a Healthy Conversation with Your Child
Prior to making the switch to online school, make sure you sit down with your child and have a healthy conversation with them. This starter conversation should be the first of many.
Remember, children are creatures of habit. They’re not used to dramatic changes, especially ones that affect their regular routine. While switching from traditional school to homeschool is extremely beneficial for children, it may take a while for them to recognise the benefits.
Start by explaining the process to them in a digestible manner. Explain that they’ll be learning from home, and the process will be “fun, easy, and exciting.” By packaging and presenting the transition in a positive manner, you’ll manage to get your child on board.
As you continue to inform and excite them, they’ll look forward to the change. This is a great way to nip potential recalcitrance in the bud. Be honest and open with your child from the get-go. If they have any doubts, dispel them to the best of your ability.
Recommended Read: How Homeschooling at Online School Can Help Children with Anxiety
2. Don’t Overlook the Importance of Scheduling
The right schedule plays a big role in making the homeschooling adjustment phase easier for both parents and children. Instead of overlooking the importance of scheduling, embrace it.
While creating the perfect schedule may take some time and research, it’ll be worth it. You’ll manage to add structure to your child’s day and keep things on track.
Feel free to adjust the schedule with time. However, make sure you stick to it for the most part, if not completely. Scheduling will also help you feel more organised and less overwhelmed.
Recommended Read: Involving Your Homeschooled Kids in Sports Activities
3. Establish an Open Line of Communication with the Teachers
Each child is different. While the homeschooling adjustment phase is a breeze for some children, it can be confusing and chaotic for others. The right approach will help you navigate these obstacles like a seasoned pro.
As a rule of thumb, establish an open line of communication with the teachers. Your child may require a little extra help in the first few weeks. As you actively communicate with the teachers, you’ll manage to ensure that they reassure your child, and employ effective strategies to help them stay focused and involved in the activities and academics.
These three steps will go a long way in making the adjustment process easy for you and your child. If you’re still looking for the right international school online for your child, Cambridge Home School should be your top priority.
We provide a quality British education across four schools: Primary Prep School (ages 8 to 10), Lower School (ages 11 to 13), Upper School/IGCSEs (ages 14 to 16), and Sixth Form/A Levels (ages 17 to 19).
Our MA/Ph.D. qualified subject specialist teachers work assiduously to keep students engrossed in the classes. By keeping the classroom size small (8 to 10 pupils per group), we maximise interactivity, one-on-one engagement, and knowledge retention.
Click Admissions above to find out more about the admissions process and learn more about the best schools in Cambridge UK!
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FAQ
What are the key benefits of switching to homeschooling?
Switching to homeschooling, particularly online learning, allows for a safer environment for children, both emotionally and physically. It helps avoid issues like school bullying and minimises the risk of COVID-19 exposure, while still focusing on academic and personal development.
What should parents consider when making the switch to online learning?
Parents should be prepared for an adjustment phase when moving to online learning. Effective communication with your child and careful planning can make this transition smoother. The guide recommends having a healthy conversation with your child and also setting a structured schedule.
How important is initial communication with my child about the transition?
The initial conversation with your child is crucial. Children are generally creatures of habit, and a shift in their routine could be unsettling. Therefore, framing the transition to online schooling as a positive and exciting change can help ease any concerns they may have.
Is maintaining a schedule important in the homeschooling adjustment phase?
Yes, having a well-structured schedule is vital. A good schedule adds structure to your child’s day and helps keep learning on track. It also enables parents to feel more organised and less overwhelmed.
What is the significance of teacher-parent communication in online learning?
Open communication with the teachers is highly recommended. Children may need extra help, especially in the first few weeks of transition. Regular communication with teachers ensures that your child receives the extra support they may require to stay engaged and focused.