Tips to get on track when you feel like you've fallen behind in your homeschool, from a mom who's been there too.
This post contains affiliate links. See my Disclosure Policy for details.
It's that time of year: summer is just around the corner, and homeschool parents start taking stock of their progress and plan for next year. While many families look forward to the break, some homeschooling parents may feel anxious about their child falling behind in their homeschool curriculum. If you're experiencing this worry, know that you're not alone, and there are ways to address this concern and make the most of your summer. I've definitely been there (I'm looking at you, math!) and I have five helpful tips to help you stay on track and enjoy your homeschooling journey, even if you feel like your child is falling behind.
What to Do When You Feel Behind in Homeschooling
Embrace Flexibility and Accommodate Learning Needs
One of the advantages of homeschooling is the flexibility it offers. Remember that not all children learn at the same rate, and that's okay. Even in a brick-and-mortar classroom, there are learners of all abilities.
Start by looking at your goals. Do you have specific testing benchmarks to meet in your state? Are you trying to finish a level of your curriculum? Define what "behind" and "on track" means for you before you determine if you actually need to catch up.
It's important to accommodate your child's learning needs and adjust your goals and lesson plans accordingly. If your child is struggling with certain concepts or subjects, consider spending more time on them or exploring different teaching methods or resources. Emphasize understanding rather than just completing assignments, and be patient and encouraging as your child works at their own pace.
Assess Your Options
If you feel that your child is falling behind, take a step back and assess your options. Reflect on what you want to achieve in the remaining academic year and discuss with your child if they need additional support or a change in approach. You may consider pushing through with the original plan, extending the academic year into the summer with a lighter schedule, or even switching to a different curriculum that better suits your child's learning style. Be open to trying new approaches and be willing to make adjustments as needed.
One thing that has really helped us is signing up for Time4Learning. While it is not our primary curriculum, it is super helpful in filling any gaps that I've found along the way in skills based subjects like Language Arts and Math.
A Time4Learning subscription gives your student access to all their core subjects, with one cool feature that makes it perfect for catching up: 6 week guides for each grade level in Language Arts and Math. If you feel that your student needs a review or a condensed curriculum to catch them up to grade level, you can use these guides to make a custom lesson plan. Time4Learning has a low monthly fee, so you can just pay for the months you need additional support. Check it out with a 14-day money back guarantee here.
Seek Additional Support
Don't hesitate to seek additional support if you feel your child needs it. Hiring a tutor who specializes in the subjects your child is struggling with can be a great option. A tutor can provide personalized attention, address specific learning gaps, and help your child catch up. You can also find tons of classes on Outschool to provide extra help.
Remember, it's okay to ask for help, and it can make a significant difference in your child's progress.
Communicate with Your Child's Healthcare Provider
If you're concerned that there may be an underlying reason for your child's struggles in homeschooling, consider talking to your child's pediatrician or a healthcare provider. They can assess your child for any potential learning challenges and provide valuable insights and recommendations. If your child does have a learning challenge, working together with a healthcare provider can help you create a plan that supports their unique needs and ensures they receive the appropriate resources and accommodations.
Give Yourself and Your Child Grace
Remember that homeschooling is a journey with its ups and downs, and it's important to give yourself and your child grace. Be gentle with yourself and your child when things don't go exactly as planned. Celebrate progress, no matter how small, and acknowledge the effort your child is putting into their education. Remember that the end of the school year is just a turning point, not the end of the road.
Embrace the flexibility and freedom of homeschooling and make the most of your summer to create lasting memories and continue learning in a relaxed and enjoyable manner.
Homeschooling is a unique journey that allows you to customize your child's education, and with the right approach, you can create a successful homeschooling experience for your child. With patience, creativity, and determination, you can ensure your child's educational success and enjoy a fulfilling summer while homeschooling. Don't let the worry of falling behind hold you back - take proactive steps to address it and create a positive homeschooling experience for your child.
For more homeschooling tips and resources, be sure to follow me on Instagram @sunnydayfamily. I'm here to support you every step of the way!
Love this? Pin it here!
