Homeschooling During Life Challenges

One of the many reasons that I love homeschooling, is the freedom to be able to homeschool through the different life challenges that pop up when you least expect it. Whether it be bringing home a new baby, a chronic illness, a death of a loved one or moving.  For us, it happened with the latter.  We moved 1500 miles cross-country.

There are many ways you can incorporate learning without having to sit down at a table with books.  I thought I would share a few things that we have done in our homeschooling. First of all, just stick with the basics:

Reading, Writing and Arithmetic.

1. Reading. We love going to the library and get all different types of books.  Some are easy readers that the kids can sit down and read to me.  Others are read-alouds that I will sit down and read to the kids.  The important thing here?  We are together.  We are taking the time to sit down with one another, snuggle and read.
2. Writing. I always have printed worksheets off for the kids.  They can practice their letters, numbers or even writing simple sentences.  If you don’t have anything printed off, that is okay.  Just get the Bible and have them copy a few verses.
3. Math. This can be done is many ways.  We use a textbook style math, and have a workbook the kids work out of.  If you don’t have time for this, you can incorporate math by letting them help in the kitchen, count the boxes that need unpacking or helping add up groceries if you go shopping.

Another way to keep learning alive in the house, is by watching educational DVD’s.   From history, to science, to watching movies of books that you have read.  Take the time to snuggle on the couch and watch a DVD.  If you have Netflix streaming, you can access all kinds of educational shows, movies and documentaries.

Audio-books are another great way of learning.  Libraries are now carrying a wide variety of books on CD’s.  You can listen to these in the car as you are running errands, or you can sit in the comfort of your home with the family and enjoy the story together.

Lastly, just take the time off.  If you are not able to do anything at that time.  It is okay.  Again, one of the joys of homeschooling is being able to make your own schedule.  The important thing is, is being with your family.  Making sure everyone understands what is going on and just being there for your children.

Have you had to take an extended period of time off?  What can you recommend to those who need the extra time together before starting school?  Share with us any tips you may have!