Don’t know where to start? Looking for a fresh perspective? Let our guide walk you through the world of homeschooling — step by step!
Step 1: A Few Basics
As with anything new and exciting, the inclination is to jump in with both feet. Before heading down the fast track to burnout, learn a few things from those who have “been there, done that.” By educating yourself, you’ll begin your homeschool journey on the path to success!
Step 2: A New Framework
Most of us have deeply rooted concepts of learning and education, based primarily on our own educational experiences. But rather than automatically replicating that system at home, we have an opportunity to begin at the beginning: redefining education. We have an opportunity to start over, sowing new seeds whose vines will grow into a hearty framework with strong, healthy roots, and blossoming flowers!
Step 3: A Learning Environment
With a bit of imagination, your home can be transformed into a wonderful learning environment. Most importantly, it can be a place where children are free to experiment, discover, and learn in a nurturing atmosphere.
Step 4: Develop Your Approach
Sure, it might initially be easier to grab a package of material and go; but how do you know it will take you where you are headed — unless you know where you are headed? Developing your own approach to educating your children at home does require an investment of time and a willingness to learn. But the long-term benefits for parents, children, and home-life are definitely worth the investment!
- The Traditional Approach
- The Charlotte Mason Approach
- The Classical Approach
- The Delight-Directed Approach
- The Research Approach
- The Unit Study Approach
Step 5: A Road Map
After setting goals for each child, these milestones and the order in which they are approached will become your personalized learning road map.
Step 6: Managing Materials
With such a variety of homeschooling materials to choose from, how do you know what will work for you? Find materials to meet your needs.
Step 7: Smart Scheduling
A schedule guides us in our efforts to meet our goals when things run as smooth as a well-oiled engine…and when the train runs off the track! Creating a workable schedule takes planning, perseverance, and flexibility; but it doesn’t have to be complicated.
Step 8: Evaluating Progress
Evaluating progress always starts by identifying a child’s needs and laying out a road map to reach specific targets. With the child as the focus instead of performance, assessment can occur in an atmosphere of love and acceptance.
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