As a homeschool mom, nothing puts a damper on my day like a homeschool meltdown. You know what I talking about: tears, tantrums, frustrations. Those moments when you feel like you have to drag your child to their desk kicking and screaming.
We’ve had our share of meltdowns in our home, and I’m sure no homeschool family is immune to them. Over our many homeschooling years, I’ve discovered a few tips and tricks for surviving homeschool meltdowns:
- Prayer and scripture. We start our homeschool day with individual devotion and prayer time. I resist the urge to rush through my morning, and I take a few minutes to read a Bible study or devotion and pray with each child. This sets the tone for the rest of the day. I also give each child a chance to talk to me about anything that may be bothering them or struggles they may have. This gives them the opportunity to get their worries off their chest and clear their mind. If a meltdown occurs over math or writing during the day, I try my best not to lose my temper or my mind. It’s easy to get frustrated because busy moms don’t have time for meltdowns. But I have to remember that I will have a lot worse to deal with if we don’t stop and discuss it. Instead, I sit down with my child and we turn to The Lord for help with school work and our attitudes.
- Discover the learning style. Use this link to determine what type of learner your child is: HSLDA Learning Style. Nothing causes a meltdown faster than trying to teach your child in a style for which they have not been wired. God created each of us with unique learning styles. The beauty of homeschooling is tailoring your child’s education to their individual needs to help them meet their incredible potential.
- Discover their interests. Try to put a spin on lessons by incorporating things that interest your child. My son loves Legos. We have used Legos in every subject including reading. Get creative!
- Follow a flexible schedule. Some of my children are more prone to meltdowns than others. Their temperament is also such that they crave consistency, a routine. Consistency helps them know what to expect and minimizes their apprehension. A schedule also helps our school day flow better. If I didn’t follow a schedule when my children were younger, they would get distracted, run off to play, and get into trouble. Having a schedule in place helped me transition from one subject to another without the children running amok because I was not prepared. I was also sure not to schedule too much of the same type of work or learning at one time. We did seat work early while their minds were still fresh. I learned about how long they could sit, and then would schedule hands-on-activities between subjects that required them to sit.
- Switch it up. Although our schedule is consistent, it is flexible. There are times when we need a break from the mundane. Don’t be afraid to schedule a reading day, a documentary movie day, or a field trip day. Plan a fun day of snacks, games, and activities that reinforce what they are learning. You can even schedule some of these activities during every school day.
- Schedule regular breaks. Be sure to schedule breaks. Children need time to refresh their bodies, minds and spirits. Allow them the opportunity to rest. It also gives them something to look forward to and it is a good motivational tool!
- Praise your child. Let your child know how rewarding it is to work hard and do your best. Show your appreciation for all they do. Remind them of how much they can accomplish with God and you by their side. They will be motivated to keep up the good work!
I pray these tips will help you as much as they have helped us over the years. May your meltdowns be few and your success be great!