Homeschooling as a Single Parent

Homeschooling your little one rather than going the “preschool near me” route can be a daunting task, especially as a single parent. And while there will inevitably be challenges, it is important to remember that you are not alone. Not only are there plenty of single parents out there doing the same, but you have the opportunity to build a support system around you and your little one so you both succeed!

Tips for Homeschooling as a Single Parent

Ask for Help and Support

• There are many families that have turned to homeschooling, especially post-2020. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, even from your local “preschool near me”. With the influx of online curriculum and educational platforms at our fingertips, we have access to so much support – both as a homeschool teacher and as a parent. Especially on the days when we feel like giving up, our support systems are there to build us up and remind us to keep going.

Set Realistic Expectations

• When you have homeschooling, work, family, friends, activities, all on the same plate, (as many single parents do,) it’s important to set realistic expectations. Through all of this, you have to take care of yourself, too. There is no prize for being the best homeschool teacher ever, so be kind, gentle, and patient with yourself, especially if you are doing this for the very first time. Sometimes the dishes are going to get left in the sink, the errands aren’t all going to get accomplished, and that is okay. Set your priorities for schooling, and as long as your little one is learning, you’re doing an incredible job!

Create Short-Term and Long-Term Goals

• The act of setting goals can be helpful in reaching them. Short-term goals can be something you want to accomplish within the week or month. Long-term goals can be what you want to accomplish within the school year and beyond. Goals help us unmuddle the overwhelm of everything we want to get done. Writing down your homeschooling goals for you and your little one can help you see what you want right in front of you.

Lean in to Budget-Friendly Homeschooling

• As mentioned before, there are so many educational platforms and curriculum online, as well as people who have years of experience homeschooling – use their knowledge, tools, and ways to save on materials! As you build your community, you may find families near your local preschool near me that would like to homeschool together. Creating a learning pod can help cut costs, as well as socialize your little one with other children who are also homeschooling.

Embrace the Team of it All

• You and your little one are in this together. You are taking charge of their education and your little one is always going to remember how their parent was also their teacher. There’s a special bond there, and when your little one learns something new, accomplishes a new skill, or breaks through a challenge, you are right there with them. Embrace the family learning together!

Playgarden online is here to help with all your online homeschooling needs, from videos and DIY activities, to enrichment classes and an in-person preschool near me for New York City locals!