In the world of homeschooling, the term “de-schooling” holds significant importance. When children transition away from traditional classrooms, they require time to adjust. Shifting from a structured, five-day-a-week school schedule to a more relaxed environment—where pajamas are the norm and schoolwork can happen at any time—is a monumental shift. Kids thrive on routine, which makes this adjustment crucial. They need a break. They need time. They need to de-school.
Consider the daily patterns your children adhered to at school. They were accustomed to bells signaling the start and end of classes. Specific times were dedicated to snacks, bathroom breaks, lunchtime, and even free periods. Any deviation from this routine, such as a surprise assembly or a fun movie day, was often celebrated as a special treat. Now, you’re asking them to embrace a pajama day every day. They can wake up whenever they like, decide when to eat, and choose what subjects to tackle first. The rigid structure of school has disappeared, and suddenly they are left with fewer guidelines and more freedom.
This change can be bewildering. Your children no longer have the social interactions that come from a bus ride, lunchtime with friends, or collaborative activities in class. They are now primarily surrounded by family and perhaps a few siblings. This substantial shift means they need time to process their new reality. According to experts at The Homeschool Parent, de-schooling involves a period of adjustment, allowing kids to transition from the strict rules of formal education to the more flexible routines of home life.
During this time, it’s essential to allow your children to unwind. Consider giving them a break similar to a holiday vacation. Let them play freely and rediscover the joys of being children, especially in the context of the current world situation. They may only have their siblings or a few family members for companionship and limited outdoor activities. As they learn to navigate this new reality, you can gradually introduce schoolwork, allowing them to adjust without feeling overwhelmed.
As you start reintroducing academic subjects, expect some resistance. Children may express frustration if they feel their new learning methods differ from what they experienced in school. This is completely normal, as many children have experienced disruptions in their education during recent challenges. It’s essential to remember that no child will return perfectly on grade level, especially given the varied circumstances during remote learning. So, don’t panic!
Additionally, kids might struggle with the newfound freedom and express boredom. Their days were once filled with structure, and now they have the liberty to choose their activities. If you take the time to de-school and slowly introduce academic content, you can help alleviate boredom and foster a smoother transition.
We also need to consider the emotional aspects of this shift. Children are navigating a world filled with uncertainty and fear. They may grieve the loss of friendships, the ability to participate in activities, and even the simple joys of school life. Recognizing and honoring this emotional journey is vital. Grant them a couple of weeks to adjust, then ease into academic topics gradually. Use this de-schooling phase as an opportunity to connect and bond with your children. If they want to cuddle on the couch, let them. Prioritize their emotional needs.
As a personal example, my partner and I chose to allow our kids to enjoy their time outside and play on the trampoline while we integrate light reading and math into their day. This is how we embrace learning in our home.
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In summary, de-schooling is a necessary step for children transitioning from traditional schooling to homeschooling. It offers them the time and space to adjust emotionally and mentally. By allowing for this break and gradually introducing academic subjects, you can foster a smoother transition and create a nurturing environment for learning at home.
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