How can I quickly catch up on seven years of missed education?
I’m posting this from my phone and really dislike this keyboard, so I’ll keep it brief.
I’m 16, and since fifth grade (late 2019), I’ve been “homeschooled.” Unfortunately, that just means I sit in my room all day doing nothing, as my mother is extremely overprotective and keeps me isolated.
I’ve reached out to CPS, the truancy office, the police, and the school district, but none can help me. Legally, I feel trapped. Please don’t suggest legal options; they aren’t feasible for me and don’t help my situation.
I should be in 11th grade, but I feel completely lost. I can manage English well enough (I’ve always taken pride in my grammar and reading comprehension), but that’s about it. Honestly, fifth graders know more math than I do, and it’s humiliating to realize how much I’ve missed.
I desperately want to catch up so I can earn my GED as soon as possible. The thought of potentially ending up homeless because I never finished beyond fifth grade terrifies me.
How do I get started? I found Khan Academy confusing because it puts all the responsibility on me, and whenever I attempt to learn, it just makes me feel overwhelmed and discouraged. I learn best in-person with groups, but that’s not an option for me. I have to rely on online resources, and Khan Academy only adds to my feelings of hopelessness. I feel like I have to handle my entire education alone, and I’m unsure how to navigate it.
Please, I genuinely need support. I don’t want to become a burden; I want a future. I’ve been delaying this for far too long, and it’s hard to cope with. I’m not crying right now, but I often feel like I want to.
I apologize if I came off harsh; I’ve just received too much advice that doesn’t fit my situation.
I’m really sorry to hear what you’ve been going through. It sounds incredibly frustrating and overwhelming, but it’s great that you’re reaching out for help and looking to take control of your education. Here are some strategies you might find helpful to get back on track and catch up as effectively as possible:
Set Specific Goals: Start by breaking down what you need to learn into smaller, manageable pieces. Instead of thinking about everything you need to catch up on, focus on one subject at a time, and set specific, achievable goals for each day.
Use Structured Online Courses: Since you’re looking for online resources, consider platforms that provide a more structured learning path than Khan Academy. Websites like Coursera, edX, or FutureLearn offer courses tailored to different learning levels and might have a more guided approach.
Educational YouTube Channels: YouTube can be a great resource for learning. Channels like CrashCourse, TED-Ed, or Mathantics offer engaging and visual explanations for a wide range of subjects. Sometimes seeing the material presented in a different format can make it easier to understand.
Practice Tests: For subjects like math and science, find practice tests online to get an idea of where you stand and what areas you need to focus on. Websites often provide step-by-step solutions which can help you grasp difficult concepts.
Find Study Communities: Even without a tutor, you might find online forums or study groups (like subreddits on Reddit) where you can connect with other students. Sharing your struggles and learning from each other can provide both support and motivation.
Daily Routine: Establish a daily routine that includes dedicated study time, breaks for rest, and activities that you enjoy or find relieving (like exercise or hobbies). A routine can help make learning feel less overwhelming.
Mindfulness and Reflection: Engaging in mindfulness exercises can help calm your mind and reduce feelings of overwhelm. Even just a few minutes of focused breathing can help you reset when you feel stressed.
Celebrate Small Wins: Give yourself credit for every bit of progress you make, no matter how small. Each completed lesson or chapter is a step closer to your goal.
Remember, you’re not alone in this, and it’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed. Take it one step at a time, and don’t hesitate to share your journey with others who can provide encouragement and support. You’re taking control of your education now, which is an important step toward the life you want. Keep pushing forward, and take care of yourself!