Whether you’ve considered homeschooling in the past and discarded the idea, or you are new to the concept, it’s definitely something worth thinking about. As homeschooling becomes more popular, the amount of tools available increase too. Then you can learn how to do the job the right way.
Go beyond textbooks. Kids have to read everything they can get their hands on. Be certain your kids are up on the latest news. This can yield some very good discussions. The skills they learn will stay with them throughout their lives.
It may be a concern of yours about who your child interacts with socially; however, it is a necessary part of learning. Set up play dates for your child with neighborhood families. Take children to the local park and allow them to play with kids who are there. Allow your children to join various organizations, clubs and teams.
One on one time is integral when you are teaching young children. Keep an area dedicated to arts and crafts. Enlist the older children to teach younger kids. This way, all the kids will learn something, and the older ones will feel more grown-up and responsible.
Even when the lessons are not art related, be sure to feature art in your classwork. You children can draw pictures about the subjects they are learning, or create a textural representation using fabric and paste. From poetry to dance, anything can be used. Your child will end up retaining a lot more information by learning by doing.
A list of good and bad things about both homeschool and public school should be made. Refer to this list when you are planning their education. Use it as a checklist of things you need to do or avoid. Put your checklist and objectives prominently displayed and refer to it as needed.
Public Schools
Public schools are underfunded and overcrowded! Home schooled children have many advantages over children who attend public schools. To gauge progress, compare your child’s performance to others in public schools by using standardized tests. If you see regression, you may want to consider a personal tutor.
Learn when to give in. If a method is not working, look for an alternative instead of insisting. Look for a different technique that better fits your child. There are many resources you can use, including apps, movies and online tutors. Trying to force them to learn a subject in a way which does not work for them will most likely only leave them and you feeling frustrated.
Find ways for your child to socialize. Since the learning environment isn’t a traditional one, you might have to think outside of the box. Join with other homeschooling families for a fieldtrip. Have your child play sports with a local recreation department team. Girl and Boy Scouts are a great way to socialize kids and provide them with a great learning experience.
Look into different styles of learning. Your child may benefit from a customized teaching plan. Remember that it is best to avoid getting caught up in specialized teaching methods. Try combining different methods that appeal to your child for a personalized curriculum that helps them succeed.
Write your philosophy down. You may already be aware of your reasons for wanting to homeschool but actually writing it out will make things clear for you and your spouse. List out your goals so that you are prepared when others ask you why you have chosen to homeschool. This can make things a little easier.
Homeschools are successful when the parents take their time to plan them out. You will find that there are benefits not only for your children, but for you as well! You now know some of those benefits and what it takes to be successful. The benefits are yours to enjoy.