Homeschooling with a baby and toddler is a beautiful yet demanding adventure. Balancing lesson plans, diaper changes, toddler tantrums, and nap schedules can feel overwhelming and ultimately impossible. But with realistic expectations, practical strategies, and a sprinkle of creativity, you can create a homeschool environment where everyone thrives.

Based on my own experience of homeschooling my, at the time, 5 year old with his 3 and 1.5 year old brothers tagging along I am sharing this comprehensive guide. Now with 2 years under my belt of homeschooling with little ones I have found multiple strategies that work and know the challenges that homeschooling moms face. You’ll find actionable ideas, and encouragement to make your homeschool journey fulfilling and less stressful.

Why Homeschooling with a Baby and Toddler Feels Overwhelming

Homeschooling with a baby is a unique challenge. Babies require constant attention—feedings every few hours, diaper changes, and unpredictable naps. Add a toddler who’s exploring the world with boundless energy and a knack for mischief, and you’ve got a recipe for chaos. If you’re also teaching older children subjects like math, reading, writing, history, you name it – it’s easy to feel stretched to your limits.

Flexibility and grace are key when you homeschool with a baby. Babies and toddlers aren’t always predictable, even if you have them on a schedule, and older kids may need guidance at unexpected moments. By setting realistic goals and embracing adaptable strategies, you can create a rhythm that works for your family. Let’s dive into how to set expectations and practical ideas to make this season manageable and joyful.

Setting Realistic Expectations Homeschooling with a Baby

1. Embrace a Flexible Schedule

When homeschooling with a baby, rigid schedules are often a source of stress. Babies and toddlers have their own rhythms—feedings, naps, and playtimes that even with a consistent schedule sometimes ebb and flow. Instead of fighting these changes, build a flexible framework for your day. Here’s an example of a day for homeschooling with a baby:

• Morning Block (8:00–10:00 AM): Focus on core subjects like reading or math when the baby is likely napping or content and the toddler is engaged in a quiet activity.
• Midday Block (10:00 AM–12:00 PM): Shift to hands-on activities or independent work for older kids while you attend to the baby or toddler.
• Afternoon Block (1:00–3:00 PM): Incorporate lighter activities like read-alouds, art, or outdoor play that include everyone.

This loose structure allows you to pivot based on your little ones’ needs while ensuring learning occurs.

2. Lower the Bar (Just a Little)

You don’t need to recreate your normal homeschool routine when homeschooling with a baby, this time will go by all too soon. Instead, prioritize core subjects like reading, writing, and math. Save complex projects, science experiments, or extracurriculars for when your baby is older or your routine stabilizes. For example, if you planned a detailed history lesson but the baby is fussy, swap it for a short story about a historical figure that older kids can read about independently. Progress, not perfection, is the goal. 

3. Involve Older Siblings

Older children can be invaluable allies when homeschooling with a baby and toddler. Encourage them to take on small roles, like reading a picture book to either the baby or toddler or helping the toddler with a puzzle. These tasks lighten your load and teach responsibility. For instance, my 7-year-old will read to my youngest while I work with my 5 year old on his math activity for the day.

4. Accept and Plan for Interruptions

Babies cry, toddlers spill juice, both poop their pants at the most inopportune times, and both need attention at the worst possible moments. Instead of resisting these interruptions, build them into your homeschool plan. Keep lessons short—10-15 minutes for younger kids—and have backup activities like coloring pages or independent activities ready for older kids when you need to step away. Accepting that interruptions are part of the process and prioritizing subjects reduces stress and keeps the day flowing.

Read this Next: Creating the Priority Schedule

Homeschooling with a Baby: Simple Ideas

Here are practical strategies to make homeschooling with a baby seamless, engaging, and fun for your older children while accommodating your youngest.

Create a Baby-Friendly Homeschool Space

A well-organized homeschool area can make all the difference. Set up a space that’s safe and functional for everyone:

• Baby Station: Place a playmat, bouncer, or high chair nearby with soft toys or a rattle to keep the baby entertained for short periods. Additionally, keep their diaper changing supplies and location nearby. If we were in the middle of a science experiment, I didn’t have to leave the room to change a diaper.
• Kid Zone: Set up a table for toddlers with easy access to supplies like markers, paper, and books.
• Portable Supplies: Use a caddy or basket to organize homeschool materials so you can move them to wherever the baby is happiest—whether it’s the living room, kitchen, or even outdoors.

This setup minimizes chaos and lets you teach while keeping an eye on the baby. When I was homeschooling with a baby, we primarily worked at the dining table or coffee table. Both areas allowed me to keep an eye on all the kids and work on lessons. During this time I was also homeschooling with a toddler and he was everywhere! Eventually we were able to set up a homeschool room where my youngest could play while his brothers had lessons.

Inspiration: Are You Ready for a Homeschool Room?

Use Nap Time Strategically

Nap time is your golden hour for homeschooling with a baby. Use this quiet time for subjects that require more focus, like math or writing, or for one-on-one instruction with older kids. To make the most of nap time:

• Keep a quiet activity, like silent reading, puzzles, or a workbook, ready for older kids if you need to settle the baby first.
• Plan lessons that can be paused if the baby wakes early, such as short worksheets or online quizzes.
• Use a baby monitor to keep an ear on the baby while working with older kids in another room.

Leverage Audio and Visual Resources

When your hands are full with a baby, technology can be a lifesaver. Use audio and visual resources to supplement lessons and keep older kids engaged:

• Audiobooks: Play a story like Charlotte’s Web or a history podcast while you nurse or rock the baby.
• Educational Shows: Choose programs like Wild Kratts for science lessons that align with your curriculum or other educational YouTube channels.
• Learning Apps: Apps like Khan Academy Kids, Duolingo Kids, or ABCmouse offer interactive lessons that older kids can do independently, giving you time to focus on the baby.

These tools provide structure and engagement while you manage caregiving tasks.

Homeschooling with a Toddler: Strategies and Quiet Toy Ideas

Toddlers bring a whirlwind of energy, curiosity, and occasional chaos to the homeschool environment. When homeschooling with a baby and toddler, keeping the toddler engaged is crucial for maintaining a peaceful learning space. Here’s how to manage toddlers effectively, with a focus on quiet activities to keep them occupied while you teach.

Strategies for Homeschooling with a Toddler

• Involve Them in Learning: Toddlers love to mimic older siblings. Give them their own schoolwork, like scribbling on paper, stacking blocks, or playing with a toy laptop to feel included. For example, while older kids write sentences, give the toddler a crayon and paper to write on too.
• Set Up a Toddler Station: Create a dedicated space near your homeschool area with toddler-safe activities. Use a child’s table or a corner of the room with a rug and a rotating selection of toys to keep things fresh.
• Use Short Bursts of Attention: Toddlers thrive on brief, focused interactions. Spend 5-10 minutes playing a matching game or reading a book with them, then guide them to an independent activity while you teach older kids.
• Sync with Baby’s Schedule: When the baby naps, engage the toddler in a quiet activity like a puzzle or busy book to maximize your teaching time. If the toddler naps too, use this overlap for focused lessons with older kids.
• Create Predictable Routines: Toddlers feel secure with consistency. Establish a pattern, like starting with a song or a quick game, to signal the start of school time.
• Utilize the Crib: Don’t be afraid to place your toddler in their crib or a pack n’ play in their room. With cloth books or large Duplo Blocks that they can entertain themselves with. My middle kiddo handled this well and would allow us to read quietly and without interruptions for up to 15 minutes. My eldest, I know, would never have allowed this and would have screamed being away from everyone. Gauge how your child’s individual personality does and don’t hesitate to give them time to settle in. 

Quiet Toy Ideas to Keep Toddlers Busy

Quiet toys are essential for keeping toddlers entertained without disrupting lessons. There are many resources that will help when you’re homeschooling with a toddler. Here are some favorites that promote independent play and skill development:

• Busy Books: These interactive fabric or felt books are a toddler’s dream. They feature activities like zipping, buttoning, lacing, matching shapes, or sorting colors. Choose themes like animals, vehicles, or daily routines to spark interest. For example, a busy book with a “farm” page might have a barn door to open or animals to match.
• Magnetic Tiles: Brands like Magna-Tiles or PicassoTiles allow toddlers to build towers, houses, or abstract shapes quietly, fostering creativity and fine motor skills.
• Reusable Sticker Books: Books with vinyl stickers and scenes (like a zoo or city) let toddlers create and rearrange stories quietly. Brands like Melissa & Doug offer durable options.
• Magic Painting Book by Usborne is a fun and engaging activity that reveals color from the black line work as water is applied. Various themes are available to suit your child’s interest.
• Lacing Cards: Large, colorful cards with holes and thick strings help toddlers practice fine motor skills and focus quietly.
• Wooden Puzzles: Choose puzzles with large pieces and simple designs, like animals or shapes, for independent play.
• Stacking Cups or Blocks: Lightweight, soft blocks or nesting cups are perfect for quiet building and exploration.
• Off-Limits Manipulative: Toddlers love to get into everything. Don’t exclude a safe, non-choking hazard manipulative. I love giving my youngest our balance scale and letting them play with it and counting bears during his older brother’s lessons. Normally this is off-limits to him which makes it more appealing.

Tip: Store these toys in a special school time box and rotate them weekly to keep them exciting. Introduce one or two at a time to avoid overwhelming the toddler. And keep them off-limits outside of school time.

Spend Time with Toddlers First

Although toys are great to keep your toddler entertained during lesson time, giving them your attention to kickstart the day is one of the best ways to have success when homeschooling with a toddler. If your toddler is given attention before your school day begins their cup will be filled. This will allow you to devote attention to your older children while the toddler entertains themselves. The following are ideas for you to make the time with your toddler educational and you can include older siblings too.

• Art: Give toddlers washable crayons, finger paints, or playdough while older kids work on drawings or crafts. For example, while older kids paint with watercolors, your younger child can use the Usborne Magic Painting Book.
• Music: Play a song like Wheels on the Bus and let everyone clap, dance, or shake a maraca, with the baby bouncing along in a carrier.
• Story Time: Read aloud books like Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? that captivate toddlers and babies with bright pictures while engaging older kids with discussion questions.
• Counting Games: Have toddlers count toys or snacks alongside older kids practicing math. For instance, count Cheerios together during snack time.
• Nature Exploration: During a nature walk, let toddlers collect leaves or sticks (with supervision) while older kids identify plants or insects.

These activities keep toddlers engaged, reduce disruptions, and create a sense of family learning. If you have an older toddler, consider beginning homeschool lessons with them. These lessons can also be educational for older siblings. Especially if you use our preschool homeschool curriculum.

Free Preschool Homeschool Curriculum: Letter of the Week

More Simple Ideas for Homeschooling with a Baby and Toddler

5. Keep Lessons Short and Sweet

Young children and toddlers have short attention spans, homeschooling with a baby requires working within those limits. Break lessons into 10-15 minute chunks with breaks for play, snacks, or cuddles. For example, do a quick phonics lesson, then let kids play with blocks while you change a diaper. Short lessons keep everyone focused and reduce frustration.

6. Make Learning Play-Based

Play is a powerful learning tool, especially when juggling a baby and toddler. Incorporate low-prep, high-impact activities:

• Math Games: Use blocks, toys, or snacks to teach counting, addition, or patterns. For example, use connect cubes to create patterns.
• Literacy Fun: Create a letter scavenger hunt around the house, asking kids to find objects starting with a specific letter. Toddlers can point to familiar objects.
• Science Exploration: Go on a nature walk with the baby in a carrier and let older kids and toddlers collect leaves, rocks, or pinecones to study. Discuss colors, textures, or shapes to engage everyone.

These activities are inclusive and require minimal setup, making them ideal for busy days. As for nature walks, they can become something more with the collected items once home while baby naps.

Check out the following the posts for inspiration:

Pinecone Bird Feeders

Leaf Stamping

Flower Bookmarks

7. Build a Support Network

Sometimes, homeschooling with a baby and toddler can feel isolating, so connect with other homeschooling parents. Join local homeschool co-ops, online forums, or social media groups to share tips and resources. Some co-ops offer childcare or playgroups, giving you a break to focus on teaching or bonding with your baby. These resources can usually be found by asking at your local library or on Facebook groups.

8. Use Everyday Moments as Learning Opportunities

Life with a baby and toddler is full of teachable moments. Turn daily routines into lessons:

• Cooking: Measure ingredients with older kids while the toddler stirs or sorts utensils.
• Chores: Teach responsibility by having kids fold laundry or sort socks, with the toddler matching colors. And this may possibly give you time back!
• Shopping: Practice math by counting items in the grocery cart or comparing prices, while the toddler practices recognizing colors and shapes.

These moments weave learning into your day naturally, reducing the pressure to do school.

Sample Daily Schedule for Homeschooling with a Baby and Toddler

Here’s a flexible sample schedule to balance everyone’s needs:

• 8:00 AM: Breakfast and morning routine (feed baby, dress kids, spend a few minutes with toddler).
• 9:00 AM: Morning learning block (math or reading while baby plays and toddler uses a busy book or magnetic tiles).
• 10:00 AM: Snack and playtime (outdoor play or sensory bin for toddler, baby in bouncer).
• 11:00 AM: Midday learning block (writing or history with toddler and baby involved using coloring pages).
• 12:00 PM: Lunch and baby’s nap (independent work for older kids, quiet puzzle or sticker book for toddler).
• 1:00 PM: Quiet time or read-aloud (everyone snuggles with a book, toddler with a felt board).
• 2:00 PM: Science or art (nature walk or water coloring).
• 3:00 PM: Wrap-up (make dinner together and weave learning in).

Adjust this schedule to fit your family’s rhythm, allowing for interruptions and flexibility. Most importantly, maximize on nap times.

Tools and Resources for Homeschooling with a Baby and Toddler

Invest in these tools to streamline homeschooling with a baby and toddler:

• Baby Carrier: A sling or wrap keeps the baby close while you teach or play with the toddler.
• Activity Centers: Use a baby gym for the baby and quiet toys like busy books or lacing cards for the toddler.
• Homeschool Planner: A simple digital or paper planner helps track lessons and stay organized.
• Pre-Made Curriculums: Programs like The Good and the Beautiful, Abeka, or Memoria Press offer structured lessons that save prep time.

Find Your Best Resource Here: All In One Homeschool Curriculum vs. Curating

• Storage Solutions: Use a cube storage organizer or plastic drawers to organize toddler toys and homeschool supplies, making them easy to access and rotate.

Overcoming Common Challenges When Homeschooling with a Baby and Toddler

Challenge 1: Unpredictable Schedules

Babies and toddlers don’t always nap or eat on cue. Have a “Plan B” activity for older kids (like coloring, workbooks, or an educational app) and a quiet toy like a sticker book or felt board for the toddler when you need to handle the baby.

Challenge 2: Guilt Over Less Structured Days

It’s normal to feel like you’re not doing enough. Remind yourself that young children learn through play, exploration, and everyday interactions. A day spent reading, singing, or sorting laundry is still rich with learning opportunities.

Challenge 3: Sibling Jealousy

Older kids and toddlers may feel neglected when the baby demands attention. Combat this by giving each child special one-on-one time, even if it’s just 10 minutes of reading, playing, or cuddling. For example, read a favorite book to the toddler while the baby naps, or help an older child with a puzzle while the toddler plays nearby.

Challenge 4: Toddler Disruptions

Toddlers can derail lessons with sudden outbursts or demands. Redirect their energy with quick activities, like a 5-minute dance break or a task like “find three red things.” Having a stash of quiet toys ready can also prevent meltdowns.

Mindset Shifts for Success

To thrive while homeschooling with a baby and toddler, embrace these mindset shifts:

• Focus on Connection: Use this time to foster a love of learning and family bonding. Learning is about building relationships, not just checking academic boxes. 
• Celebrate Small Wins: Did you read a book, count toys, or go on a nature walk? That’s progress worth celebrating.
• Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to lean on your partner, family, friends, or homeschool community for support, whether it’s watching the kids for an hour or sharing curriculum ideas.
• Embrace the Season: This phase of frequent interruptions and short lessons won’t last forever. Your children are learning resilience and adaptability alongside you. The season will change all too soon, so enjoy this time with all your children over being stressed about lessons (or lack thereof).

Encouragement for the Journey

When homeschooling with a baby and toddler, it is a unique season, filled with challenges but also immense rewards. Your baby will grow, your toddler will become more independent, and your routines will find a natural flow. In the meantime, give yourself grace. You’re not just teaching academic skills—you’re modeling love, patience, and perseverance for your children.

By setting realistic expectations, using tools like busy books and school time only toys, and weaving learning into everyday moments, you can create a homeschool environment where everyone thrives. From reading stories to exploring nature to sneaking in math during nap time, every moment is an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect as a family.

Ready to embark on the journey of homeschooling with a baby and toddler? Share your favorite tips, quiet toy ideas, or questions in the comments below, and let’s support each other in making learning fun, flexible, and stress-free!