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We are a group of Christian homeschooling families in the Stateline area of Southern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois. We offer support, provide information and share stories of homeschool life. Field trips, moms’ nights and volunteer opportunities are just a few of the activities planned each month. Come join us as we embark on this adventure called homeschooling!

 

Suddenly Homeschooling? Here Are Some Resources to Help

For many parents of school-age children, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has forced them to become part or even full-time educators of their children, all while navigating remote work. This has put a lot of extra stress on families during an already stressful time. Though this situation has been difficult for parents and children alike, there is a possible silver lining: parents are becoming more aware of resources they can use to supplement their children’s educations while the pandemic carries on, and even after it ends. Today, Stateline Area Christian Homeschoolers will go over some of them.

Parents should check out educational websites

In the digital era, there are numerous educational resources available online for both parents and children, and many of them are affordable or even free.

  • Thanks to the Washington Homeschool Organization, you can tap into a range of resources to help you navigate homeschooling. 
  • Parents can find high-quality and accessible online classes in a range of topics through sites like Khan Academy, National Geographic Kids, and Big Universe.
  • If you need additional reading material or books for your kids, look for great eBooks or audiobooks on websites like Epic or Magic Keys – or, for older readers, Project Gutenberg.
  • Parents of high school-age kids can also help them learn how to do academic research with an emphasis on understanding which sources are peer-reviewed and can be trusted to provide accurate information.

Educational services parents may want to invest in

Parents may sometimes feel their kids need something more customized or one-on-one, for their best chance at academic success.

  • Look for freelance tutoring services in different subjects who are offering their services online. But make sure they are well-reviewed and have the proper credentials.
  • Depending on the public health requirements for your area, you may be able to arrange for your child to meet with a tutor in person, just confirm all safety protocols are in place – both for COVID-19 safety and other parental safety concerns.
  • If you are supplementing the education of kids with special needs, consider resources specifically designed to help them and you.

Other ways parents can assist their children with education

There are many ways you can help your kids’ educational activities be easier, more enjoyable, and less stressful during this time and in general.

  • Make sure your child has access to good, reliable technology so they can enjoy their online educational options.
  • On days when you have to spend more time focusing on work, offer educational screen time or put together a hobby box that can keep their imagination engaged. 
  • Similarly, be sure your home internet access is reliable enough to allow your child to access educational resources as well as digital socialization opportunities.
  • Set your child up with their own school room or study nook. Keep in mind that adding a multipurpose activity room may also increase your home’s value.
  • Try getting involved with different homeschooling groups, regionally and nationally, so you can get support and advice on education and problem-solving.

Many parents have already found that leaning on additional resources can make it easier for them to assist their children with education. If you are a parent thinking about homeschooling and need more information about available resources, contact the Stateline Area Christian Homeschoolers.

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