Q&A: How can I keep my homeschooler from getting bored?

"I am a brand new homeschooler and my child seems so distant. He isn't interested in learning. I'm afraid homeschooling wasn't the right choice. Help!"

Answer: Older children who have spent a lot of time in the public school system may take longer to adjust. Many children go through a period of withdrawal after being taken from the school system. This is perfectly normal. Most parents feel that the summer is plenty of time off from school and your new homeschooler will be more than willing to start in the fall. If your child doesn't jump up and down at the idea of homescool, Don't Worry! Give it some time and give your child a chance. Some children really have a difficult time adjusting to homeschool and the more relaxed you can be the better.

Think About This: At school, some children are not treated as intelligent, independent people. They may even be used to being ignored and metlting into the background. It will take some time to let your kids get used to idea that they are trusted and respected as people and as learners. Children who have a hard time adjusting to life without the stresses of public school are the ones who are older and have spent a lot of time at school. Some hints for success can be:

• Skip the chalkboards and little desks. Let your child read Huck Finn outside under a tree. Take her to the museum. Have fun!



• You’re a great parent so try not to turn into his teacher. If you’re his teacher and not his parent he may begin to feel trapped. Children in school can escape the school house and teacher at the end of the day, homeschoolers can’t.



• If you try to find the educational experience in everything you do, your children will quit listening to you. Don’t feel like you have to turn everything into a lesson. Let the museum experience be the lesson rather than lecturing on every piece of art. If you let them observe certain situations unhindered their natural curiosity will kick in and they’ll begin asking you questions.



• Find out what interests your child and yourself, then explore it for as long as you both want to. One fun idea is to explore a country that your child is interested in. Check out this month's article Let's Visit Japan for some ideas.

It's perfectly normal to have doubts after you have made the decision to homeschool. Relax. The doubts will pass and be replaced with confidence, a happy healthier child, and warm memories.

Good Luck & Happy Homeschooling!