Homeschooling when you have a toddler walking around the home can be a huge challenge. Toddlers spend a lot of time running around, and playing. In fact it is the best way for them to learn. The problem is that they are often a distraction to the rest of the kids that you have in the home that are trying to get their work done. Below you will find some tips on how you can help your older children to concentrate on their work while keeping your toddler busy.
Work during nap time
All toddlers should have a specific time that they take a nap. During nap time this is often the best time to put the rest of your children to work getting as much school work done as possible. Toddlers usually sleep for about two hours some longer, and some less. This will give you some quiet time to work with your children, and make sure that the work gets done. Your toddler may put up a bit of a fight if they are not used to nap time, but eventually they will get used to the schedule. When your toddler wakes up have a snack all ready for them. This way you can continue working with the other kids, while the toddler eats the snack.
Set up a separate play area
Having a separate play area for your toddler away from the school area will help to get the work done. Some parents use the toddler play areas to give their little ones their own play section. Put plenty of toys in this area for them to play with. They may not like being confined to a certain area, but it will help to get all of the necessary school work done, while still keeping your toddler content.
Give them someone to play with
Depending on how many children you have you may be able to allow one to play with the toddler while you work with another one. Rotating with your children will help you to give you each of them a little one on one time with mom, and with their siblings. Even setting up play dates during this time will prove to be beneficial. Having another parent come over with their child and keeping them occupied will help you to focus on school work.
Set up independent work schedules
You can easily set up an independent work schedule for each child. If you have children who are old enough to follow their own schedule and check off the work as they are done, it will be easier to focus on the toddler, and just supervise the rest of the work getting done.
Independent play
One important thing that they will learn is how to play independently. This is a very important skill for children to put their imaginations to good use. Allowing your child some time on their own to be creative, will certainly help them when it is time for school.