It’s a challenge many homeschoolers will face, what happens when you have a new baby? It’s important to be realistic; even the most carefully crafted routine will fly out the window when a baby arrives. But you can successfully homeschool with a new baby. For starters, plan for flexibility before the due date. You might shorten your summer break or work through the summer. You could also take less time off around holidays or do a few six day school weeks.

Most families need at least a month (or more) before they can start a homeschooling routine again. Plan for a longer break than you think you’ll need; if you feel up to starting earlier you’ll be ahead of the game. Some families are ready for more structure after just a couple of weeks. Sibling adjustment may be easier if a routine is kept.

If you suspect your children will get antsy during the baby break, stock a few supplies that will keep them quietly occupied when you need to rest. A box of clay and modeling tools, easy craft kits, and a new book for each child will go a long way. If you feel guilty during the time off (and you shouldn’t!) try reading aloud while you nurse the baby, watching educational videos together, or popping in an audio book.

When you start homeschooling again, ease into it. Don’t start your regular routine right away, especially if you use a structured schedule. Set a time limit on your teaching (perhaps an hour to start with). You can focus on major subjects only or rotate through your subjects, perhaps doing math one day and history the next. You might only get to math three days a week this way, but in the long run it won’t matter. Gradually add more teaching time when you’re ready.

While you’re working with your older children, hold the baby in a baby carrier. You won’t have to listen for the baby monitor or check in on him this way. Let your older children hold the baby while you read aloud or work with another sibling. Consider flipping your schedule around. Who says you have to homeschool M-F mornings? Do afternoons or even the weekend if that’s easier. Switch to a math or grammar program that kids can do independently, at least for a few weeks. Put off messy projects for days when you have more energy (or help).

Explain to your older children that you’ll need extra help with chores (this might be a good time to increase allowances). Assign a child to help you prepare and clean up each meal. Any child over the age of five can sweep a floor, load the washing machine, put away his own clothes, straighten his bed, set the table, or feed the pets.

Remember having a newborn in the house is in itself an educational activity! Spend a lot of time just observing the baby. Ask your kids what they notice and point out new developments. Check out books about babies from the library. Have kids keep a chart of baby’s milestones. Get out the old photo albums and see who the baby looks like. Teach older kids how to burp, change, and soothe a crying baby. This is real life education and more important than anything else you’re teaching. Most of all, try to relax and enjoy this time. You’ll hear it again and again, but time really does fly and babies grow up fast. There will always be time for math.