Homeschooling Children of Different Ages

Homeschooling children at different ages and grade levels simultaneously can be a challenge, even more so if you have an infant or a toddler running around. But there are things you can do to keep the chaos at a minimum. The key to having the day go smoothly and efficiently is to be organized and prepared. There's a good chance that if you're disorganized, your children will be, too. You'll want to make sure you know what your children will be studying that day, and if you have toddlers, have activities set aside for them to minimize distractions. Consistency plays a role as well. Children are usually receptive to routines. Here are a few tips to help you keep your homeschool day productive.

Work with your oldest child first.

Since younger children require more one-on-one instruction, try going over assignments with your older child first. Then, while your oldest is working independently, you can sit with your youngest.

Teach your children the same lesson.

Similar content in core subjects is taught at every grade level, each year building on the last. Discuss concepts together as a group, and then let your children work independently at their own level.

Let your children teach each other.

Toddler needing attention? Have to take a phone call? It happens. And when it does, let your children teach each other. They can exchange spelling lists, quiz each other on things they are currently studying, take turns holding up flash cards, and play educational games together.