Managing time is difficult for some and easy for others. There never seems to be enough time to accomplish our goals, to meet the demands of family, for homeschool and outside activities. Since there are only so many hours in a day, it is important to establish priorities in our daily lives. These priorities must allow time for study, exercise, sleep, meals, and interaction with family and friends. There is a great deal of truth in the adage, “all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” Achieving a workable balance in managing time requires organization and thought.
The first step in managing time is looking at the hours spent in various activities to determine where improvements could be made. There may be too much time being wasted on unimportant things. Definite hours for homeschool should be scheduled using calendars, day planners, or the computer- away from any distractions, such as TV or phones. Priorities should be assigned first to the larger tasks, such as research, in homeschool.
Managing time in accordance with different energy levels, whether morning or evening, should be considered, as well. Much more can be accomplished when you're able to concentrate on homeschooling while feeling energetic and mentally alert. The support of family and the comfortable familiarity of home are definite advantages to homeschooling.
Managing time for household chores and family interaction should be prioritized along with homeschool. Is it more urgent that you read that last chapter or join the family for supper? Can the yard work wait another day, or should it be done before it rains? The time spent watching a favorite television program is probably not a high priority, since the VCR can be set to record it for later. Washing the car may seem like a high priority, but if it interferes with the homeschool schedule you need to follow, it can probably wait a day or two.
Managing time for other priorities, such as exercise, medical appointments, and outdoor activities is important, as well. Necessary breaks, a walk or movie with friends, will boost energy and add variety to the homeschool routine. Since many factors may affect your priorities during homeschool, it is advisable to remain somewhat flexible and allow for unexpected events
Keep in mind, first things first and remember that priorities are not always set in stone; managing time will come easily for everyone.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mimi Rothschild is a homeschooling parent, author, children's rights advocate, and Founder and C.E.O. of Learning by Grace, Inc. She and her husband of almost 3 decades reside with their 8 children in suburban Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Rothschild co-founded Learning By Grace, Inc. because "our current system of education has broken its promise..." Learning By Grace, Inc. delivers Internet-based multimedia education to PreK-12 children in the United States and throughout the world.
Rothschild has authored a number of books about education published by McGraw Hill and others. Her Daily Education News Blog contains feature stories on alternatives in education.