With schools closed nationwide, our living rooms have turned into classrooms as kids everywhere adjust to this new remote learning lifestyle. Although many teachers continue to provide assistance and resources virtually, a lack of face-to-face interaction or easy access to instruction means parents must take on the role of substitute teacher. Even for families who have homeschooled before, this unforeseen reality may be throwing everyone for a loop. So, we’re sharing five tips to help parents and children manage the world of homeschooling.
1.Create a schedule that works for you!
Whether you’re juggling work from home, multiple lesson plans for different age groups, or both, this is a great opportunity to organize your days based on your family’s needs (and attention spans). If the kids receive online learning during the morning hours, fill the rest of the day with breaks, play time, and perhaps a review session in the evenings to ensure they are understanding the material. Don’t feel obligated to follow the 8-hour school day or your own schedule, for that matter. Switching it up and allowing the children to get involved can give them a sense of independence and motivation to keep going.
2. Set up a designated “school” area.
When school and free time are separated physically, the entire family is able to enjoy some work-life balance. Setting up one or two designated spots for school materials can help reduce distractions, promote discipline, and provide added comfort, especially if you have teens who may benefit from a little more peace and quiet. At Satori, a lakeside community of estate homes in Miami Lakes, all homes feature open-concept floorplans, allowing you to create study nooks within larger living areas, so everyone can be together without feeling overcrowded.
3. Leverage online resources.
With this sudden lifestyle change, many of us don’t have the time to relearn school subjects in order to help our children. Fortunately, there are plenty of free educational resources online that offer worksheets, instructional videos, visual aids, and textbooks to assist the kids and refresh your memory. For residents living in the new condominiums of Park Central’s Apex Collection in Doral, Lennar’s standard Wi-Fi CERTIFIED™ Home Designs deliver unsurpassed connectivity to bring you reliable connection and access to e-learning during these difficult times.
4. Encourage your kids to pursue passion projects.
One benefit of homeschooling is that kids can focus on other activities they weren’t able to in the past. This helps elevate their mood and serves as an incentive for completing schoolwork. At Siena Estates, a community of new single-family homes in South Miami-Dade, you’ll have no problem getting the kids excited for their passion projects. Lush backyards are perfect for practicing a sport, learning how to garden, or getting inspiration for a painting. Thanks to Lennar’s Everything’s Included® package, the home’s chef-inspired kitchen will also be equipped with stainless steel appliances and ample countertops, so the kids have plenty of room and tools to try their hand at cooking.
5. Have family and friends pitch in!
It truly takes a village to raise a child. For parents who work regular hours, devoting all your time to your children’s education is simply unrealistic. So, don’t be afraid to reach out to loved ones. Ask your older kids to help the little ones with homework or plan a video call with classmates – the kids can clear any doubts and have some fun catching up!
As your family learns to adapt to this new situation, it is important to remember that we are all in this together. We hope our homeschooling tips and tricks help make your life a little bit easier. If you’re interested in one of Lennar’s Miami-Dade communities, please give us a call – we’d love to tell you all about our virtual home-buying experience!
