Homeschool Management

1. Tips for scheduling the school day:

• Have a set routine that you follow each day.

• Have a designated "school" area to help focus

• Have a work day check-off list that kids can check off when each subject is completed

• Have stars with subjects on them on a bulletin board that kids flip over when completed

• Balance between independent and group work for variety

• Start each day with prayer!

• Avoid phone calls & email during "school hours"

2.  How can I set boundaries so that other unnecessary interruptions of life don't interfere with homeschooling?

• Don't accept phone calls during "school" hours - list your hours on your answering machine

• Set time limit for checking emails if you must do so during school

• Notify friends and family of when it is best to call

• Put a sign on your door so there are no interruptions from neighbors & solicitors

3. How can I best manage teaching multiple children?

• Have privacy boards for each student if they need help focusing

• Have individual desks/spaces for each student

• Set individual baskets for supplies and work for each student for ease of use and storage

• Use a wall file with each child's name for incoming/outgoing work

• Have older children manage their own schedules within reason

• Have a schedule for each student's work that they can check off

• Set time limits on your day, helps students see end of day as well as smaller kids

• Use a timer for subjects, work for 45 minutes, play for 15, work for 45 min. etc

4. Additional Tips/Incentives?

• Find your child's motivation and encourage them to work harder to obtain rewards.

• Children get to pick dinner or have a special plate on nights they've done well in school

• Time alone with mom/dad after certain amount of points are earned