Distance learning case studies: a home-schooler parent's perspective

We spoke to Allan, a parent who has home-schooled his two children since they started school.

What’s the main thing you've learnt home-schooling your children?

Patience. You don't need to be a genius to home-school. 
 

For you, what is the best thing about home-schooling?

All the schooling is tailored to each child, based on their individual needs – even down to how they prefer to learn at different times of the day.
 

And what do you think your children have gained from the experience?

I think they're definitely closer to us as parents as we spend so much quality time with them.
 

How do you monitor that your children are working when they should be? 

The main thing is sitting down and reviewing their work and going through it with them to make sure they’ve understood everything.
 

Do you recommend children work together or separately to avoid distracting one another?

It depends on the subject, the child, and also how they’re feeling that day. Sometimes working together works, sometimes it doesn't. As a parent, you’ll be able to judge what's best at the time.
 

What are your three main pieces of advice to parents who feel daunted by the prospect of home-schooling their children for the next couple of months?

• Think realistically about what being with your children 24/7 entails. It takes patience and this might not come overnight.
   
• A routine takes time, so don't beat yourself up if it doesn't just "fall into place" straightaway.
   
• No one knows your child like you do. What works for one family, might not work for others. Tailor your schooling for your child.