I hear so many fellow school-at-home parents talk about the difficulties they have getting their children to actually do the school work. Often times, these conversations include suggestions of taking away privileges or other punishment. While I agree that consequences for bad behavior are important, I think in some cases it is important to look at the root of the problem.
Most children, even well into middle school, simply get bored with school work. Let's face it, even most of us adults get bored sitting at a desk all day...no matter how much work there is to do. So we check our email, Twitter, or Facebook, or we talk to a nearby co-worker for a minute. Children also need a way to liven up their day. However, most parents don't allow their children to "play around" during class time (and rightly so).
Take a cue from the old adage, "If you love what you do, then it's not work." Children love to play. Here are some simple ideas to help make their work feel like play.
- Use technology. The internet is chock full of games and videos that make learning exciting and fun. Check out some of the sites available in my list of educational websites.
- Play games. Whether you buy educational board games, or make up your own educational games, children are sure to have some fun playing games for school.
- Watch tv. Yes, I said it...watch tv. As much as every parent hates to admit it, at some point most all of us have used the tv to entertain our kids and keep them busy. Don't feel guilty about it, just make the tv work for you. There are actually some very educational shows that are enjoyable, too. So, set your DVR and plop those youngsters in front of the boob tube for some learning!
- Create special spaces. Every house is different. You don't have to have that beautifully organized, large space created with all new top-of-the-line products that you've pinned on Pinterest. Kids love spaces because they are private, comfortable, and their own. Give each child his or her own space and it will be special.
- Get hands-on. There are so many ways to really get into a lesson. Have your children create a project that suites their interests and ability level that demonstrates what they are learning. Don't tell your kids, but this is also a great way to make what they are learning really stick with them, too!
- Get out of your seat. I've noticed that when my children sit in one spot for too long they loose focus and become unproductive. They get wiggly and tend to start wandering around the house. They get even less done then. Designate different places around the room or house for a couple of subjects. (See #4.) You can even get creative with the seating at your work space. Use an exercise ball or bean bag at the desk instead of a chair. Lie on the floor for a workbook page. Try standing at the desk instead of sitting. This allows your child the opportunity to wiggle a little while working. Check out some of the ideas from the resourceful teachers at Izzyshare.com.
- Get out of the house. Go outside or take a field trip. This doesn't have to be expensive; any park, or library will do just fine. It doesn't even have to be for the whole day. The point is to change the scenery. Search for landmarks and points of interest in your area to find places you can explore together.
I hope some of these ideas help you break out of that old routine and get creative with your school day. Keeping each day fresh will do wonders to stave off boredom and melt-downs. What do you do to make learning fun in your house?
Karissa
