WITH schools across the country remaining open during the COVID-19 outbreak, more and more parents are choosing to pull their children out of classes.
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But many are at a loss at how to provide a formal education for their children.
Home Education Network assistant coordinator Kirsty James said the message was simple - don't try to recreate a classroom.
"That is fraught with difficulties," Mrs James said. "I understand people are trying to work from home as well.
"Setting up a classroom is not going to be practical or desirable. It's generally counterproductive if you try to impose a rigid schedule.
"The important thing is to focus on learning rather than teaching."
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Many schools in the Bendigo region are preparing plans for parents who choose to take their children out of class. Those schools are also preparing for potential closures.
Mrs James said it was important for parents to speak to schools to find out what plans were in place.
Parents should also consider different learning activities for their children, she said, including board games, audiobooks, and online resources.
"People shouldn't feel too daunted," Mrs James said. "It is different and obviously it is understandable that people feel nervous.
"There will be support available from schools and the home education communities."
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Mrs James said parents didn't need a teaching background to provide a sufficient education for their child.
"All parents taught their kids how to talk, how to walk, and how to interact with other people," she said.
"Even though they haven't educated them during school years, they were the primary teacher before that.
"The main thing is to be kind to yourself and others. It is an unprecedented situation. Things won't necessarily go to plan. Try not to worry. Try to trust your kid's innate ability to learn.
"Focus on creating positive family experiences and sharing things with your child."
Mrs James said parents who have taken their child out of school because of COVID-19 could find more support at Homeschoolers Supporting Families During School Shutdowns.
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Tara Cosoleto
Journalist covering courts and general news at the Bendigo Advertiser.
Journalist covering courts and general news at the Bendigo Advertiser.
