1. Create a designated learning space
It is helpful to use the same place for your homeschooling lessons. That may be a desk or the
dining table or a mat on the veranda.It also helps to keep all the homeschool material in one place. This helps your child know where to return the material after they have done their school work.
2. Follow a daily schedule
One aspect of homeschooling which is very appealing is the flexibility. Any activity can become a learning experience. However, it is important to have some structure to work around to avoid being distracted or going off track.
Children thrive when they have a basic structure and routine. Consider creating and following a daily schedule. You can always adapt, but a schedule will give you focus and direction each day. If you can designate the same time each day for homeschooling your child will come to expect that time will be for homeschooling.
Your schedule can be as detailed or as relaxed as you want. The key is having some set routine and structure for you and your child to follow so you can both stay on track. [include a link to Griha Shiksha Parent’s Guide Page 6 - GS Timetable]
3. Map out the school year ahead of time
Griha Shiksha gives you a curriculum which you can complete in 9 months, if you spend 2 to 3 hours five days per week. If you want to you can mark a calendar with the dates for each term and for topic within each term. Maybe only plan 6 weeks ahead so you have some flexibility if you spend more time on a topic or if you are moving faster through the curriculum. Colour coding your calendar with the themes will help your child visualise the schedule and to see their progress.
4. Set learning goals together
Homeschooling gives your child the opportunity to direct and customise their education. Goals are an important part of that process. When you have a vision and a plan for where you want to go, you are more likely to achieve those learning outcomes and properly align your day-to-day curriculum.
In your Parents’ Guide you will see an outline of the learning objectives for your child. These are based on the expectations of most educational Boards. You may also have your personal educational philosophy and will keep in consideration your own child’s age and abilities. A great activity at the beginning of the term is to sit down with your child and discuss the upcoming topics.
You can find an example of the Griha Shiksha curriculum on our website at
https://www.grihashiksha.in/our-curriculum under * Our Programme * Our Curriculum and *Implementation
5. Take learning beyond the classroom
One of the greatest advantages of homeschooling is the flexibility to learn outside a traditional classroom setting.
Look for learning opportunities beyond the textbooks:
● Play board games or an open field or corridor game.
● Practice cooking and baking (without fire for the young ones).
● Learn household skills like cleaning & tidying up.
● Write postcards, greetings cards or emails to friends and family.
● Visit local businesses eg. a Plant Nursery, Tea factory, or Craft Industry accessible
for you.
● Go to the library.
You will find opportunities for many of these within the Griha Shiksha curriculum.
Make time for these opportunities in your daily schedule and keep an open mind—exploring new skills, meeting new people, and playing are all important ways we learn and grow. Incorporate those experiences into your homeschool environment for a well-rounded curriculum.
6. Discuss with other Homeschoolers
Just because you’re in charge of your child’s education doesn’t mean you’re in this alone. Griha Shiksha staff are available to discuss any queries or problems you may be having with
homeschooling. Griha Shiksha also holds regular GS Family gatherings online where you can discuss homeschooling with others.
7. Ease into school
Whether you’re returning from summer break or a mid-year vacation, don’t be afraid to ease back into your full curriculum. For example, you can start with briefer sessions and take walks in a park or do another activity. Then slowly extend the length of each session. With the flexibility of homeschooling you are able to cater for your child’s attention span and depth of focus.
Remember: Homeschooling doesn’t have to mirror the structure and set up of public schools.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with your learning style and schedule. Listen to your child and pay attention to what works well for them and adapt as needed.
Do you agree with these 7 tips for Homeschooling? What suggestions do you have that you can share with other homeschool families? Leave a comment below to help others.
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