Do you know everything you need to know to be a good parent? Do you have all the answers when it comes life?  I bet you know one thing. You know how to use resources to help you find the answers.

There are resources available to you to find if your child's schooling is on target. I have made a CHECKLIST of topics that you might want to look at and on that same page suggest two books that provide details of what might be covered in each grade. Both are excellent resources.

              One very important reason for why we decided to homeschool was that I wanted the boys to LOVE TO LEARN. Keeping that goal in mind, my husband and I select their learning activities WITH them and follow their interests. They boys and I know that there are some subjects which they need to cover even when they are not interested in the topic, but in such cases, I try to find a way to make the information relevant to what they ARE interested in.
This is not possible by plopping a book in front of them and telling them to read the chapter and answer the questions at the end of the chapter. My involvement and enthusiasm is key to helping them collect and remember information.

I also have taught them that they can learn anything if they go to the library, find a book on the subject, and read. My older boys are confident learners as a result and we are thrilled with what enthusiastic learners (most of the time!) they are.

                  Homeschooling is NOT school at home.  Of those who school at home (I'm taking an experience based, educated guess) 75% give up.  READ about how to homeschool. Try different methods. Don't be afraid. If your child is reading quality literature an hour a day, completing a math assignment each day and writing each day with correct grammar and punctuation, you are on the right road.   Relax and figure how your child learns and READ about homeschooling methods.

The methods that seem to work best with us is to take a literature approach to science and social studies mixed with hands-on activities. We use unit studies as a basis. We use manipulative based math books and we only watch PBS. My children read at least an hour a day and we use our garden as an ongoing lab for studying microbes, ecosystems, chemistry, genetics, basic math, geometry and algebra. My children love to read and we make sure they have many FINE historical works to read. Their historical knowledge rivals mine in many areas and I was at one time certified to teach history.
If one method feels like a millstone around your neck, scrap it and try again. Your child will benefit from seeing you research and try methods. Share with your child what your goals and ideas are. The sharing further enhances your child's educational development.

HOME