Drill Sergeant or Teacher?

Source

Do you feel more like a drill sergeant than a teacher?  Do you feel you are teaching the same information over and over, but your student doesn't seem to "get it"?  Teaching doesn't need to be difficult, and learning should be embraced with enthusiasm.  If your student seems to be shutting down or have that vacant look, then you need to take a step back.

It can be one of the most frustrating issues for a homeschooling mom.  Wanting to pull your hair out because your student doesn't seem to be picking up the information to, what seems like to you, the simplest things.  Remembering that their minds work differently is the key to these situations.  It is not a matter of your needing more patience.  You have an abundance of that or you never would have chosen to homeschool.  What you need to do is meet your students where they are.

Here are some ideas that may help you get your student over that hurdle to understanding.

• Children have more than one learning style.  Try a different method of teaching the same thing.  If worksheets and exercises are not working, use manipulative's or have them draw a picture.
• Let them create their own power point presentation.  Let them be the teacher.  Having the opportunity to instruct you will give them a sense of ownership to their education.
• A shallow pan with whip cream, pudding, or peanut butter is a good way to peak their interest in any subject.  They can use their fingers or celery and carrot sticks to work math problems, spelling, or writing sentences.  A little treat while learning is always a plus for most students.
• Put the subject on hold for a few days.  There is nothing wrong with setting it aside to focus on other areas of interest.  When you do get back to it you and your student may have a fresh perspective to tackle the challenge.
• Get outside for some much needed play and fun.  Have you ever noticed how animated students get after they have had some physical exercise?  Their little endorphins are just buzzing.  Some children need to get rid of that pent up energy to focus on a more difficult project.
• Relax!  We all need to be reminded of this once in a while.  If we become too demanding then we are the problem.  Wanting your student to "get it" is a noble mission, but not if you are putting the road blocks up for their learning.

When faced with challenging circumstances we all get anxious.  It is your ability to face them with maturity and strength that is your best tool to helping your student reach their potential.