Homeschooling has never been for the faint-hearted

Homeschooling has never been for the faint-hearted – that’s why we’re so grateful for teachers.

But times have changed, and although parents never could have predicted (nor in their wildest dreams or scariest nightmares imagined) that a pandemic would sweep the globe and force them to turn their living rooms into classrooms – it is the new normal.

Most children are now learning from home to prevent and contain the coronavirus.

Alice Freeman and her husband Jack are two of the many parents in the district who are currently juggling work, home and teacher life.

The Freemans are homeschooling their children – daughter Grace who is in year 3 and Harry who is in kindergarten.

Both students would normally attend St Francis Xavier’s School.

“It has given me a new appreciation for teachers and what they do.

“But, they also don’t have a toddler running around the classroom,” said Alice who is also a mum of two-year-old Eloise.

“It is tricky, it’s been a juggle but the school has been great.

“They’ve given us work in the areas of English and Maths so we don’t have to teach every subject.

“We have worksheets and a rough timetable, it’s probably about two to three hours of work a day.”

Alice said that at this stage, both her children think it’s just an ‘extended holiday’.

“Harry’s in kindergarten so he’s only been at school for six weeks – he thinks it’s great being back at home. “

Alice said managing Grace’s schoolwork is naturally a little easier because she’s older but teaching a kindy kid does have its challenges.

“I am a little concerned about them getting behind with their education, and losing momentum.

“But the teachers have been incredibly supportive and always happy to help out when needed.

“It’s been a big change in our household but I understand why it’s so important to keep them at home.

“When the time comes they will really be looking forward to getting back to their friends and proper teachers.”