After my husband and I made the decision to homeschool we had a whole lot of questions that lurked in the back of our minds regarding the ins and outs of the whole shebang. We thought we had it all figured out but then we got a dose of reality. Unfortunately we had to step back and start where most parents start from which is square one. My intention of asking a few of my fellow homeschooling moms some very popular homeschool questions is to hopefully make it possible for you to at least start at square two. I am very fortunate to have found a great homeschool group for my family and from several questions asked I’ve incorporated the answers that I received into this article.
There were many reasons given for homeschooling but most answers had to do with moral and religious reasons. The flexibility that homeschooling offers and the fact that consistency helps maintain balance were also driving factors. Many homeschooling families choose to homeschool so that each child’s curriculum is tailored to their individualism. The need to keep the family close together and to instill a good learning environment were also very important.
When choosing a homeschool method there is really a lot of thought and consideration that goes into the decision. The best thing to do is determine the learning style of your child and the goal you have as a family and then go from there. There are a plethora of books and blogs out there regarding choosing curricula or you can attend a homeschool convention. With some time spent researching you will find what works. While some families prefer the Classical approach because they prefer the emphasis on Literature, Latin, and History, with a Biblical study, others rely on using traditional textbooks or Unit Studies. One thing’s for certain, when choosing a curriculum for younger students make sure it’s fun, engaging, and considers a lot of reading. The older ones need to be taught at a similar level as their peers. High school students are on their journey to preparing for college so this is really a critical time in making sure they are equipped with the knowledge they need for either college or just life skills in general. Just don’t obsess over the choice because it’s just as one mom put it, “The beauty of home school is that if something doesn’t work, try something different.”- Rose W.
Some people feel that a person needs to be a licensed professional teacher or have a teaching background in order to homeschool. Since this is a very touchy subject for some, due to the fact that there is a stigma to teaching that you have to be skilled in the art of education, most homeschooling educators will tell you differently. Teachers in general are used to teaching multiple students a particular curriculum all at the same time without regard to the students’ needs and the time they may need to comprehend what is being taught. Most home educators are people in the child’s life that care about the individual needs of that child. As long as the person is competent, has the desire and passion, and is genuinely concerned about the welfare of the the child, then anyone can homeschool. Plus you will find that there are so many outside resources to help like online classes, co-ops, and support groups. If it ends up that there is a subject that you just can’t teach, then reach out to one of these many resources for help.
There really is no typical day for homeschoolers. That’s what’s so fantastic. Everyone can make whatever schedule fits their lifestyle. Families may have a strict schedule that only allows for play time after all schoolwork is done. Others incorporate play time within their schooling day by breaking up the subjects with free play, art activities, exercise, sports, projects, and socialization. The need to break up subjects is especially good for people who have multiple children they are homeschooling at different levels. By breaking up the day the educator can work with the different students at different times. Whatever your day will look like, it must be of utmost concern that the child is educated. Too many extra curricular activities can take away from time to do studies. School must be a priority.
Socialization? Of course homeschoolers have heard of it. A public school building is not the only place a person of any age is socialized. Co-ops afford the opportunity for students to learn in a group setting. Let’s not forget park days and field trips. How about we throw in a little bit of sports or music. Then there’s Church which is always a great place to be with others. So while this question is something I get asked all the time, please know that my children, and those of my fellow homeschooling families, are not on lock down.
My oldest daughter has severe nut allergies. She goes into anephylaxis so all of her caretakers always carry an epi-pen. I really don’t trust many people with her and her diet for this reason. I’ve been very heartbroken time and again of the bullying that goes on in the school system. Children with allergies are ostrisized and in some cases are made to eat in a separate area from other students. Some children even develop eating disorders while in school due to bullying in some way or another or they develop low self esteem. I feel that by providing my children with their daily meals, they have a better chance at making better food choices in the future without having to worry about what someone else thinks of them. While homeschooling, you have a closer watch on what you’re children are eating. You can provide better breakfasts, lunches, snacks, and if they’re still hungry, dinner.
All of us homeschoolers talk about the beauty of homeschooling. What does this beauty look like? Let’s first point out the one-on-one instruction which enables the child the ablility to learn at their own pace. Not everyone learns at the same time. While one child may be strong in one subject that same child may be weak in another. The educator can just simply breeze over what the student has mastered and spend more time working on their weakness. Next point is that while most children go to school and sit at a desk for hours upon end, the homeschooled child only sits until their work for the day is complete. Depending on the grade level this can be anywhere from an hour to four or more. Just depends on your child. The good news is that they don’t have to sit there any longer than they have to waiting for the kid next to them to “get it”, which gives the family the freedom to do whatever else their heart desires.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the thought of homeschooling more than one child, relax. Even though all children at home will require a certain amount of attention, be cool in knowing that they’ll all make due somehow. If they’re younger give them age appropriate activities to do while homeschooling older siblings. If all of your children are of school age, then just rotate around them while overseeing all their studies. As the student gets older you will find that they become more independent and require less attention. You may still need to help them to comprehend new material, but it won’t be like babysitting a toddler. Trust me when I say that everyone ends up finding their place in whole scheme of things.
Now we get to my favorite part. Traveling while homeschooling. Just think of how exciting it would be to teach your child about the Coliseum and then buy a few tickets for entry to check it out. You can do this with any location. Even if you just want to travel to your nearest State park, you can while learning the history behind how that park was formed, what year, and why. Make everywhere you go a learning experience. Plus you get to keep the souvenirs. You can incorporate subjects like math, science, and history. With the convenience of electronics these days, you can take your work on the road. There is online schooling and apps out the wazoo. You don’t even have to buy books anymore if you don’t have room because you can download most books to your handy hardware. The World is your oyster, so take advantage. As one mom advises though, always give yourself enough time for detours like extra bathroom breaks and eye catching must sees.
Whatever your reason for homeschooling, just make sure you breathe and pray for patience. Whether this is a long term plan or to just get you through a moving situation, dedicate yourself to your child and let them know that this is for their best interest. If they’re not cooperating any given day, give them a little space. I’m not suggesting go weeks without schooling if they are already behind, but let them have the day to gather their thoughts and get back on track the next day. Maybe they just need a play break or some social time. Good news, parents, that you can school year round if you need to. Take as much time as your child needs to learn the material being mindful of all their necessities. Be flexible and don’t be afraid to ask for help. With such large homeschooling communities in the United States and Worldwide, excluding some Countries, you’re not alone.
“As the parent you care more about your child’s education than anyone so trust yourself. You know your child better than anyone.”- Lexi with Lextin Academy of Classical Education
“There’s no right or wrong way to do this. You can do it for weeks, years, morning, or afternoon. You can school with a computer or with a stick in the dirt. The best thing you can do for yourself and your kids is find like minded families to share this adventure with.”-Sarah P.
“Enjoy the process and be engaged.”- Sandy G.
“Enjoy your child/children-the education will come.”- Rose W.
Thank you to the moms mentioned that helped me to provide you with the best possible answers to the most popular questions asked.