Did you just roll your eyes when you read the title of this article? I get it. One-on-one time can be incredibly tricky to pull off, but today I’d like to share a few super-simple ideas.
Because let me tell you- a few minutes of dedicated one-on-one time can change the entire homeschool atmosphere. Those precious moments boost connection, increase cooperation, and make memories.
So, let’s get started…
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How to Boost Connection and Cooperation with One-on-One Time
One-on-One time is easier said than done but with a little planning, it can happen!
I’m going to be perfectly honest here, you guys. I don’t always pull off the one-on-one time that I am sharing here. Life can get crazy and sometimes those things that we know are important end up cast by the wayside because of dentist appointments or a broken dishwasher.
When we get out of our one-on-one groove, things start to fall apart. It happens slowly at first, but eventually, I feel as if we are a train off-track.
And then I realize that I’ve forgotten to focus on what is most important in our homeschool: connection.
When everyone is feeling connected, life is good. (Or, at the very least, less chaotic!)
Individual read-alouds can make one-on-one time easy-peasy…
A few years ago, I had one of those ah-ha parenting moments. It occurred to me that I could have each kiddo pick a picture book each morning and leave it on the kitchen counter.
And then, at some point during the day, I take that book and the kid who chose it and snuggle up to read.
Alone.
We adore read alouds; they are the easiest part of our homeschool routine. Plus, reading aloud is a great way to build connection and grow relationships… and that is important when it comes to your children!
Here is what I loved about starting this one-on-one reading routine:
1. The kids didn’t expect it and were super-excited off the bat (well, except the oldest who was all “I’m too old for these picture books, blah blah”… but he quickly found one and delivered it without comment).
2. It’s interesting to see what each kid chooses. When no one is there to judge or complain that we’ve read it too many times, or suggest an alternative there was a new freedom.
3. How often do we get to have one-on-one time? I mean, really. It’s hard! These read alouds were special, even if they only lasted 15 minutes. (And who doesn’t have 15 minutes??)
…Or, stay up a little later for some one-on-one gaming
This only works if you have children who can stay up a little bit later without falling apart the next day. (If you aren’t there yet, do not fret. Eventually, it happens- I promise!)
We started this tradition recently and it has been a huge hit for all involved.
Here’s how it works- Each child gets to stay up an hour later one night each week to play a game of his or her choice.
(And because each child loves this time so much, they have been super respective of their siblings’ time with me and we have had minimal interruptions.)
What’s great about this one-on-one tradition is the conversations we have. It’s amazing what will come out when a child is actively engaged in an activity. We have had fantastic discussions!
Another idea: start a one-on-one book club
Wouldn’t it be great to create your own family book club?
Wondering if this would be a good fit for your family?
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