Homeschooling Basics

When it comes to kids’ education, most parents now consider homeschooling over traditional schooling. Perhaps that is due to the alarming health crisis the world is facing today. Parents caring for homeschooled children want to keep their children safe and secure, so this educational method fits well with their needs. However, the problem begins when they try to perfect the technique of homeschooling. A lot of parents think that homeschooling is exempted from educational mistakes, which is entirely not true. In fact, though homeschooling is advantageous in this current situation, it still promotes some negative impacts not only on children but also on the parents. So to avoid that, here are some of the tips parents might want to consider.

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Never Compare Children’s Needs And Capabilities – It is essential to understand that every kid learns differently. Thus, it is pointless to compare one kid to another. When parents choose to home-school their children, they should prepare for the consequences of learning imbalances. Meaning, they should be open to the possibility that some children will learn lessons quickly while others may not. It is important to note that kids learn in different phases and times.

Never Put Too Much Pressure On Children’s Learning – There will come a time when parents will soon become hard on their kids, causing the kids to feel anxious (Parents, don’t ask ‘what is anxiety frequently‘ if you do this to your kids). That is because they will become caught up in wondering why some kids take a little longer to learn. They will assume that because learning happens at home, it should have been that easy for the kids to adapt. However, that is not always the case. Parents must realize that homeschooling is a challenging learning method and that children also need energy and time to adjust.

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Never Dwell On Missed Days Of Homeschooling Lessons – As parents, it is important that they understand that kids will always be kids. Just like in traditional schooling, there are days that kids can’t come to school and study. Therefore, it is impractical to dwell on missed days of homeschooling lessons. Remember, not because learning happens at school, it does not mean that kids won’t experience personal issues. Allow them to skip lessons if they have to. Parents should let the kids have an easy day from time to time.

Never Restrict Kids On Doing Something Different – One particular issue of parents when it comes to homeschooling is their inability to understand their kids’ personal needs. They assume that kids should use the time to learn and not look at homeschooling as something worthy of their convenience. But what they did not know is that children also need to do a lot of different things to support the benefit of their overall development. They need to play, sleep, relax, and spend time with themselves if they have to.

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Never Promote Stagnant Routines – When children are homeschooled, there is a tendency that they will get used to the same routine over and over. Parents may think that it is okay because of the less hassle of adjustments both sides need to do. But over time, stagnant routines will cause emotional and mental exhaustion. Therefore, parents must mix things up and try to incorporate different interesting activities for kids. That way, it will break the ice.

Never Stick To The Usual – Homeschooling can tackle a wide range of learning strategies. Children can learn either with visual representation, academic, experiment, or personal experience. But parents should understand that not every method works the same with other kids. Thus, it is vital to focus on the learning strategy individually. At some point, it may become a hassle because it may take a while to find a suitable choice for the kids. But eventually, everything will work out fine once parents get a hold of the best strategy to use.

Never Assume Knowing Everything – The best and the only way parents can execute productive and effective homeschooling is when they reach out for help. They should never assume they know everything because that will only create a lot of pressure on them and the kids. Parents must become open to comments and suggestions. That way, they can better manage their decisions, especially when it comes to choosing the best learning method for the kids.

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Most parents and child therapy professionals would agree that choosing what is best for kids can be a tough decision. Sometimes, parents know they can screw things up and make a lot of mistakes due to assumptions and carelessness. Unfortunately, they can’t help it. There will always be a time that what they think is the best for the children will not deliver a positive result. That is okay. It is part of parenting. There is no perfect way to handle children because everything parents do, and every decision they make affects the children differently. They have to remember that learning happens every day. As long as they are there to guide the kids, all will be well.

 

 

The coronavirus pandemic has pulled all of us out of our usual routine – work and school. And child therapy experts suggest that our current practices – social distancing and quarantine – may be our new normal. Meaning going to school will not be possible for your children. But learning must not stop. So, parents chose a safer learning environment for their kids – homes.

If you are new to homeschooling, you may ask, “how will I make my home a conducive learning environment for my child?” I got you! Here is a guide in preparing your home for homeschooling. This guide is also helpful for homeschooling parents who are curious about redesigning their regular learning areas for better learning for the kids.

Space

“Where?” is the first question that you need to ask yourself when preparing your home for homeschooling. In school, classrooms need to be a comfortable learning space that is both engaging and stimulating. So, you must recreate the same situation at home. 

If you can spare a room, turn it into a learning space and provide tables and chairs appropriate for your child’s age. A desk and a desk chair will be more suitable for teens and college students, while small activity tables will be okay for your younger child. If you don’t have spare space at home, a plain kitchen counter or dining table will do as well.

Here are other things that you must try to have in their learning spaces:

• Bulletin board
• Bookcase containing age-appropriate reading materials
• Play area for younger learners
• Comfy seating
• Activity space for hands-on projects and crafting
• Educational games

Storage

You must also find storage for your learning spaces. Cubbies or cabinets will help organize your homeschooling child’s things. Painted crates are also a cute place to store clutter. You must also have pencil holders at all times, so your kid or teen will know where to put and find the pen that they need.

Moveable storage boxes are excellent alternatives if your dedicated learning space is another part of your house – kitchen or dining area. It is mobile and easy to store when not in use.

Computer And Internet

Another staple that you should have is a computer and internet connection. Whether your curriculum is accessible through online platforms or modules, a sound machine will be needed for classes or doing assignments. There is no need to buy a new device for learning if you already have a desktop or a laptop at home. You only have to make sure that it will be available when your child needs to study.

If you intend to buy a new computer, the best option will be affected by your learning space and your technological needs. If you don’t have a separate learning room at home, then a laptop is what you need. But if you have a dedicated study room, desktops are cheaper and therefore more appropriate device for you.

Distraction

Another factor that you have to manage is a distraction. What this maybe will differ, depending on your child. That is why a dedicated learning space, clear of unnecessary learning clutter, is needed. So, if you are using your kitchen counter for learning, make sure that it is free from the clutter that can distract your learner. 

You may also need to put parental controls on the learning device – desktop, laptop, or tablet, to make sure that your child is not playing during study time.

Printed Schedule

Lastly, you need to set up a schedule for learning. Dr. Kyle Pruett, M.D., shares, “When things happen in an expected and organized pattern, children learn what to anticipate, and this helps the children feel secure when they are crossing the threshold of change, as they do every day.”

Setting up schedules is extremely necessary now that your child is out of our previous routines. This strategy can help them manage their time and can even give them a sense of control over their lives amid these uncertain times. Print a schedule and post it where your child can see it.

The home is the safest place to be at these days. So, turn your homes into a better learning space for your child and help them adjust to the new normal with ease!

Although it’s a difficult topic to discuss, children must learn about COVID-19. Here are some things you can teach your kids about the disease and what we’re all going through now.

Remember To Be Reassuring

Before anything else, remember that now is a stressful time for everyone. It can be especially distressing and confusing to children who do not entirely understand what’s going on. Always approach and reassure them. There’s no need to spark panic and anxiety in them. Be mindful of what you say and how you say it.

Start With What They Know

When it comes to discussing something new, it’s best to start with how much they already know about the topic. This way, you know how to start the conversation. Likewise, you get a better idea of what details you have to discuss with them.

Make sure that you use language appropriate for the age of your children. The information about the new disease can be overwhelming, and anything overtly medical may be too technical for younger individuals. You can ask, “Do you have any questions about the disease you might have seen on TV?”

Discuss The Basics With Them

After you find out how much they know, you can begin to discuss the basics. Teach them about the symptoms and tell them that since it’s new, doctors still have more to learn about it. Older kids may also ask about cures.

If they have questions and you’re unsure of the answer, do not make guesses. It’s especially dangerous to feed them incorrect details when it comes to health matters. Together, look up the answers to these questions through reliable sources. For reference, check official websites of the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Show Them How To Protect Themselves

Another important thing you should discuss is how they can protect themselves from the coronavirus. Showing kids preventive measures will assure them that there’s something they can do to stay safe.

One way is by teaching them to wash their hands properly. You can show them a video as well as demonstrate it yourself. Encourage them to sing part of their favorite song to ensure they wash their hands long enough. You can also show them how to scrub all areas by using this trick. Substitute paint for soap so that they can see how handwashing techniques expertly cover their entire hands.

Next, you can show them proper sneezing and coughing etiquette, in case they haven’t learned that already. Remind children to cover their mouths with a tissue or handkerchief when sneezing or coughing. If they don’t have any on-hand, they can also do so into the nook of their elbow.

Lastly, ask them to come straight to you if they feel unwell. However, try not to scare kids when discussing symptoms and reassure them that you’re taking measures to keep them safe.

Explain Why Schools Have To Close Down Temporarily

Although some may not miss it, one question kids might ask is why they’re not going to school. Keep your explanation simple. Talk about how temporary closures will help keep people safe as they stay at home. Such will lessen people having to interact with another, which may spread the virus.

Teach Them How To Be Compassionate

Another unfortunate problem that we’re facing today is the stigma surrounding the new disease. Some people cast out others due to their ethnicity, and some patients themselves are facing discrimination.

It’s thus essential for you to teach compassion during these trying times. Jessie Mahoney, MD, says, “We have an opportunity as parents to focus our parenting energies on cultivating, compassion, connection, and love.” Remind your children that the virus can affect anyone. It is not a disease that you can tie to a specific group of people.

Pay attention to the words they choose when talking about the topic. Do not attach nationalities or locations to the disease. Avoid referring to people as “cases.” Don’t use words such as “pandemic” or “plague. Steer clear of phrases like “infecting others” or “spreading the disease to others.”

Summary

COVID-19 is a reality that we’re living through today. Although kids will not be able to comprehend it fully, it’s essential for us to still teach them about it.

Begin with reassuring them, getting rid of any anxiety or fear. Next, build on what they already know. Ensure that they know essential basics such as symptoms and equip them with knowledge of protective measures. Lastly, emphasize the lesson of compassion for everyone going through these challenging times.

By teaching your children about the disease, you help them not only grow but also contribute to a more well-informed community.

With the emergence of digital innovation in education and the occurrence of threats and negative influence in public school environments, traditional school systems and institutions are slowly being reconsidered by some parents. According to J. Richard Gentry Ph.D., “Families are children’s most important educators. Baby/toddler reading is the miracle that can save our schools.”

 

 

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Parents may be placed in a situation where homeschooling their children will come to their minds. This type of schooling is not new and unusual to many nowadays. In fact, statistics show this is getting more and more popular among parents, professional or not, wealthy or not.  According to Dona Matthews Ph.D., “More and more parents are choosing to educate their child at home, or to join with other parents who don’t want to send their children to the local schools.”

 

 

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Do you have arguments with your husband about the possibility of enrolling your child for a homeschool? Do you believe that it is the best option available to you? Is it essential for you to make your kid feel comfortable with the kind of education he receives as well as the mode of learning he gets? If you answered yes, then this article is perfect for you. In this write-up, we are going to explore the different possibilities of homeschooling for kids.

 

 

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Many things concern married couples, among which is the education of their children. The success of marriage does not only lie in increasing the intimacy in the relationship or in keeping it stronger over the years. At the same time, it also refers to the fulfillment of the duties of the spouses as parents to their children.

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What is child therapy? Read this article as we try to relate to child therapy, growth, and healthy development.

There are several variations when it comes to the development of kids.

What Is Child Therapy And How Is Therapy Helpful For Children’s Healthy Development?

Some children learn how to read or write at a young child’s age while there are those who only learn when they have already enrolled in kindergarten. At the same time, there are also children who mature faster compared to others. This is why you will notice that your child may have advanced learning than the other kids who are of similar age to him. On the other hand, you may also see that your beloved child may have experienced developmental delays. Thus, bringing many kids to a type of evidence-based therapy called cognitive behavioral therapy sessions is helpful for the child’s life and growth.

What Are The Types Of Child Therapy That Can Help The Whole Family?

If you can connect or relate more to the latter scenario, then what you need to do is to let your kids undergo child therapy. According to psychiatrist Bruce D. Perry, “When a child is suffering from mental, social or emotional, or psychological stress and/or trauma, it can be hard to cope with, especially when you feel like nothing is working or there’s nothing you can do to remedy the situation.” Do not ignore the signs and symptoms of developmental delays and behavioral disorders in your child. Once you notice that there is something wrong with the way your kid talks or reacts, immediately consult with doctors, a healthcare provider, or a child therapist. The medical professional will then inform you if the child’s case needs to be referred to the children’s therapist.

You’ll find several types of therapy for your children with particular incapacities. The right child therapy session can help the child and the whole family members with:

Autism Spectrum Disorder

A child with autism acts differently. The child usually has a problem with the way he/she behaves or thinks. There is a high possibility that the child’s mental health condition may be jeopardized and they become anti-social or hyperactive. This is the primary reason why autistic kids are difficult to deal with. To make things easier on your part, be sure to bring the child to a therapist. According to children psychologist Christopher Lynch Ph.D., “Social skills training is often used to address the challenges that autistic children have with social interaction and social communication.” In child therapy sessions, kids can learn valuable behavior therapy techniques to help them interact more effectively and reduce disruptive behaviors. Child therapy can be highly beneficial for children with autism, aiding them in developing essential skills for a more fulfilling life.

Speech Defect

One of the common mental health issues or mental health conditions in children is having difficulty communicating with others and this can be helped through child therapy. The defect is often brought about by speech deficiency in those kids who are still in their tender years.

When the problem is not addressed immediately, your child may become deaf-mute.

To prevent this defect from becoming permanent in the child’s life, the best thing to do is to hire a child therapist to teach your kid how to speak. Therapists specialize in treating children with mental illness and use various treatment techniques, including play therapy, to teach verbal communication skills effectively and in a healthy way.

Down Syndrome

This particular disorder can highly benefit from child therapy. Aside from developmental delays, your child may also suffer from a genetic disorder. One of the most common in kids is Down’s syndrome or DNS. This is characterized by delays in physical growth, unique facial features, and low intellectual capacity. If your child has Down’s syndrome, then you are indeed in need of child therapy. There is no permanent cure for this, but child therapy can improve the motor skills of your child. Aside from this, a child’s behavior therapy sessions with a mental health professional or mental health provider (esp. if done through parent-child interaction therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, family therapy sessions, cognitive behavior therapy, or other mental health services) can make your beloved child learn independence. Child therapy techniques for treating prolonged grief disorder or Down syndrome in younger children or older children are almost always sought by the children’s families in clinical child counseling services or mental health treatment.

“You can teach children all the social skills in the world but if they don’t feel comfortable in social situations then they are not going to be able to carry out those skills.”— child psychologist and therapist Christopher Lynch Ph.D

Many Ways To Handle A Child’s Developmental Delays And Mental Health Disorders

Remember that child-centered play therapy is only one of the many ways how you could handle a child’s developmental delays and child’s mental health disorders. Therapists give praise and support as kids learn. Child therapy can include talking, playing, or other activities to help them express feelings and thoughts. You can also talk to a family doctor, therapist, or children’s psychiatrist for a better treatment plan. Your goal in children’s management is to find the remedy that will be perfect for your child’s condition. Always think of your child’s preferences and also their health and well-being before making a choice. Dr. Jaclyn Shlisky PsyD says “Focus more on how your child makes progress by comparing them to themselves—if they are progressing each day, each week, each month, that’s what really matters. Every day try to find a small win.”

However, as parents, if you feel the need to talk to a child therapist who can assist you in dealing with your own worries and anxieties about your child’s behavior, BetterHelp has given you an easy and convenient alternative. You can sign up and reach out to one of their credible therapists online through its mental health app. If you are interested, read more about the pros and cons of online child therapy here. Remember, your child needs your parental involvement.

 

Children Therapy FAQs

How Do I Know If My 2-Year-Old Has ADHD?

What Causes A Child To Be Disrespectful?

How Do You Discipline A Child That Won’t Listen?

What Questions Will A Psychologist Ask My Kid?

What Are The Signs Of Child Behavior Health Problems?

How Long Does Therapy Take To Work For Kids?

Can My Child’s Therapist Tell Me What They Talk About?

How Do I Prepare My Kid For Therapy?

Preparing your child for a therapy session involves having an open conversation, normalizing the process, and addressing any questions or concerns. Choose the right therapist together, explain privacy, and offer continuous reassurance and support. Your understanding will help your child feel more comfortable as they begin therapy, where they can explore their thoughts and feelings using various therapy techniques.

At what age should kids go to therapy?

The appropriate age for children and adolescents to start therapy varies depending on their individual needs. Therapy can be beneficial from early childhood to adolescence, depending on the specific challenges a child or adolescent faces. Therapy for children can be a valuable means for them to express and navigate their thoughts and feelings. Early intervention can lead to more effective outcomes.

How do I know if my kid needs a therapist?

Recognizing if your child needs a therapist involves paying attention to their behavior, emotions, and any noticeable changes in their overall well-being. Signs such as persistent emotional distress, behavioral changes, academic or school issues, and concerns from teachers or caregivers may indicate the need for therapy. Trust your parental instincts, and if you have concerns, consult with a professional who specializes in helping children. They can assess your child’s needs and recommend appropriate support, which may include play therapy, behavioral therapy, or family therapy. Early intervention can make a significant difference in their development and well-being.