What are the Advantages And Disadvantages of homeschooling? Looking at the both side some type helps to see a balanced picture and here it is a balance view of pros and cons of homeschooling.
People new to the idea and concept of homeschooling often have a thousand of questions to raise. Here is some helpful information to guide you in weighing things out:
Some homeschooling advantages:
1. Allow quality time, providing individualized attention and instruction. Homeschooling parents can better understand their children; observe how kids progress, what areas they find difficult and help them out.
2. Children learn in their own pace. At homeschool, children can advance at any time, not waiting on others or if the kid is a slow learner or having difficulties in a certain subject area, she/he can remain to focus on that area without pressure that others are already moving on.
3. Parents pattern their teaching style and curriculum in accordance with the child’s learning style, allowing him/her to successfully understand the subject matter, thus better results are achieved.
4. No peer pressure. At a homeschool, age classification is not a factor, therefore children not only associate with children their same age level, but with children of different ages and adults as well, so they can decide on their own without the influence of peers.
5. “Hands on learning”. Activities which are outside the context of books are very much essential to the child’s learning process. Trips to the park, the museum, the zoo, going fishing with mom and dad can be a great time to spend an afternoon educating your child.
Some homeschooling disadvantages:
1. For the homeschool parent, much time and effort is required for preparation of teaching materials, lessons and managing the child’s opportunities in order to cultivate friendships and expand on the child’s interests.
2. Parents who homeschool do not have enough time to spend for themselves when kids are constantly at home. This frequent time of being together can be at times suffocating and, therefore, can not work in certain families.
3. Homeschooled children do not have a lot of opportunities to bond and develop friendships with peers. For many families, this really is not a problem and is supplemented by taking the kids out to play in the park, attend lessons in ballet, jazz, etc. However it takes a lot of effort on the part of parents to insure that their kids have these opportunities.
Whether to homeschool or not, it all depends on you, as a parent, on how much are you willing to give your child. On top of all the learning materials, the field trips, home schooling entails a lot of love, patience and encouragement.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Guide: Teacher's Guide to Homeschooling
Guide: Teacher's Guide to Effectively Administer Homeschooling
Homeschooling is a rapidly spreading alternative form of education. It practically requires nothing too stringent that even parents without a high school diploma can handle it. However, there is still the need to optimize the quality of learning. Given below are some guidelines which parents must consider before administering homeschooling.
Planning for Homeschool
Planning is essential for homeschooling to make the flow of things smoother. Plan first the location. An extra room around the house can be perfect; however, if none is available, the dining room or the living room will do fine. Just try to be sensitive to the things which can act as a distraction to the children.
Having troubles where to put all your instructional materials? Try using durable plastic bins as storage for the books, supplies, equipment and other stuff as well.
The beginning of the school year in homeschool may be quite rough in terms of the schedule. Observe which time of the day do both the pupils and the teacher work most productively, then try to create a schedule which can optimize the energy of the teacher and the attention and eagerness of the children. Also include in the schedule the amount of time allotted for each subject.
Looking Up Resources and Instructional Materials
One does not need to put too much strain on the family budget just to afford materials for homeschool instruction. There are websites which one can check out or nearby curriculum fairs which sell used books that can be used for instruction.
For science subjects which require hands-on laboratory experiments, choose only those which are deemed very necessary. One can find on the net a wealth of experiments which can be done at home using only household finds or cheap and easily available stuff.
If no curriculum is being followed, try to schedule enough topics and projects to last the whole school year. It is also important to strategically plan the sequence of the lessons. One can get tips online on which lessons to include plus the scope and the proper sequencing of lessons.
Finding the Right Curriculum
There is a wide roster of curriculum which can adapt to the needs and capabilities of the kids and the specifications of the parents. If the parents are trying to adapt one for their child, it is important to determine by which means the child learns best, by first-hand experience, listening, reading or the like.
Homeschooling is supposed to be a great educational experience for both parents and children. They should not be burdened much by the costs demanded by the program. It is for the parents to be resourceful and creative to maximize the resources and the learning of their children.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
Homeschooling is a rapidly spreading alternative form of education. It practically requires nothing too stringent that even parents without a high school diploma can handle it. However, there is still the need to optimize the quality of learning. Given below are some guidelines which parents must consider before administering homeschooling.
Planning for Homeschool
Planning is essential for homeschooling to make the flow of things smoother. Plan first the location. An extra room around the house can be perfect; however, if none is available, the dining room or the living room will do fine. Just try to be sensitive to the things which can act as a distraction to the children.
Having troubles where to put all your instructional materials? Try using durable plastic bins as storage for the books, supplies, equipment and other stuff as well.
The beginning of the school year in homeschool may be quite rough in terms of the schedule. Observe which time of the day do both the pupils and the teacher work most productively, then try to create a schedule which can optimize the energy of the teacher and the attention and eagerness of the children. Also include in the schedule the amount of time allotted for each subject.
Looking Up Resources and Instructional Materials
One does not need to put too much strain on the family budget just to afford materials for homeschool instruction. There are websites which one can check out or nearby curriculum fairs which sell used books that can be used for instruction.
For science subjects which require hands-on laboratory experiments, choose only those which are deemed very necessary. One can find on the net a wealth of experiments which can be done at home using only household finds or cheap and easily available stuff.
If no curriculum is being followed, try to schedule enough topics and projects to last the whole school year. It is also important to strategically plan the sequence of the lessons. One can get tips online on which lessons to include plus the scope and the proper sequencing of lessons.
Finding the Right Curriculum
There is a wide roster of curriculum which can adapt to the needs and capabilities of the kids and the specifications of the parents. If the parents are trying to adapt one for their child, it is important to determine by which means the child learns best, by first-hand experience, listening, reading or the like.
Homeschooling is supposed to be a great educational experience for both parents and children. They should not be burdened much by the costs demanded by the program. It is for the parents to be resourceful and creative to maximize the resources and the learning of their children.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Homeschooling Myths
There are lot of myths about homeschooling already that people must have before homeschooling. Homey Enough? : Know if your home is conducive enough for homeschooling and shatters these myths.
Homeschooling is one great option when it comes to educating your kids. It is actually beneficial in some parts, and if pulled off, remarkably, it can even educate a child more than a regular school can.
The thing is, the house or environment must be conducive enough for homeschooling to take place. How can a parent be sure that his house is adaptable enough for homeschooling? Here are some tips and reminders:
1. Parents must have teaching credentials.
This is probably the most important aspect to contribute to the conduciveness of a home. When none of the parents has any idea on how to "properly" teach, then that is already a major pitfall.
2. The house must have its own "study room".
The study room must of course be different from what is normally coined as "classroom", else how would it be any different from regular schooling? Make sure the room is spacious and comfy enough that it allows maximum absorption of knowledge. Keep the unnecessary toys away. Of course, should you need any educational toys for a certain lesson, then make sure they are all at an arm's length.
3. Make sure the house is packed with books.
Of course, your house is the "school", therefore you must have this room that could pass up as the library where your kids would amass a lot of added information.
4. Playground, anyone?
Yes, a playground would be nice, if only to keep the boredom at bay. Set your own break time where the kids could joyfully play with the seesaws, slides and swings.
5. Safety comes first.
Your kid, being homeschooled, will naturally spend all of the time in your house. This means your house must have all the safety measures to prevent any unfortunate accident.
6. Let the kids "breathe".
And with that, I mean never build a stifling atmosphere. Let your kids be. Never be too strict. Not because you are already the parent and the teacher should you impose on them. Allow them to play. Let them explore. Make your house the ideal school that it has to be.
A parent should always remember that the conduciveness of a home largely depends on the family that resides in it. If your family is naturally a loving bunch, then it already follows that it is conducive enough for things such as homeschooling. If not, then better send your kid off to a regular school.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
Homeschooling is one great option when it comes to educating your kids. It is actually beneficial in some parts, and if pulled off, remarkably, it can even educate a child more than a regular school can.
The thing is, the house or environment must be conducive enough for homeschooling to take place. How can a parent be sure that his house is adaptable enough for homeschooling? Here are some tips and reminders:
1. Parents must have teaching credentials.
This is probably the most important aspect to contribute to the conduciveness of a home. When none of the parents has any idea on how to "properly" teach, then that is already a major pitfall.
2. The house must have its own "study room".
The study room must of course be different from what is normally coined as "classroom", else how would it be any different from regular schooling? Make sure the room is spacious and comfy enough that it allows maximum absorption of knowledge. Keep the unnecessary toys away. Of course, should you need any educational toys for a certain lesson, then make sure they are all at an arm's length.
3. Make sure the house is packed with books.
Of course, your house is the "school", therefore you must have this room that could pass up as the library where your kids would amass a lot of added information.
4. Playground, anyone?
Yes, a playground would be nice, if only to keep the boredom at bay. Set your own break time where the kids could joyfully play with the seesaws, slides and swings.
5. Safety comes first.
Your kid, being homeschooled, will naturally spend all of the time in your house. This means your house must have all the safety measures to prevent any unfortunate accident.
6. Let the kids "breathe".
And with that, I mean never build a stifling atmosphere. Let your kids be. Never be too strict. Not because you are already the parent and the teacher should you impose on them. Allow them to play. Let them explore. Make your house the ideal school that it has to be.
A parent should always remember that the conduciveness of a home largely depends on the family that resides in it. If your family is naturally a loving bunch, then it already follows that it is conducive enough for things such as homeschooling. If not, then better send your kid off to a regular school.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
Friday, July 15, 2011
Can you Be a Homeschool Teacher?
As an adult I took up engineering degree, and not teaching degree, so I often thought how can I teach a child without teaching credentials? If you ever thought like I did, fret not. As a parent, we make a best teacher as we know our child the best. Think about when your child was infant till preschool age, where you might have taught her how to tell colors, shapes, recognize people and their emotions. Child has learned how to talk, walk and chew just watching you.
The teacher is the key to the success of homeschooling. In most
cases, the teacher is a parent or a close relative. In some cases,
parents may divide the subjects between them. Rarely, if both
parents are busy, they may hire a homeschool teacher. Whatever the
case, children need time with their parents. Parents, as a rule,
make very good teachers.
Teaching does not involve a clinical presentation of facts.
Learning has to be integrated lovingly into daily life for it to
interest the child. That is where parents come in. Grandparents
also make great teachers, especially since they have an abundance
of patience.
If you feel anxious about your skill or knowledge, relax. There
are countless homeschooling resources that are aimed at helping
you. Professional curriculum packages, support groups, online help
desks, virtual schools and library resources are all available.
When you start out, you may want to make use of the commercial
curriculum packages. Readymade software also allows you to record
and log important achievements.
Local support groups are an excellent source of help, ideas and
material. This is where you get to meet experienced homeschoolers,
who will be more than happy to offer their insight and advice.
Once you settle into the homeschooling routine, you will find
yourself tailoring the curriculum to suit your own needs.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
The teacher is the key to the success of homeschooling. In most
cases, the teacher is a parent or a close relative. In some cases,
parents may divide the subjects between them. Rarely, if both
parents are busy, they may hire a homeschool teacher. Whatever the
case, children need time with their parents. Parents, as a rule,
make very good teachers.
Teaching does not involve a clinical presentation of facts.
Learning has to be integrated lovingly into daily life for it to
interest the child. That is where parents come in. Grandparents
also make great teachers, especially since they have an abundance
of patience.
If you feel anxious about your skill or knowledge, relax. There
are countless homeschooling resources that are aimed at helping
you. Professional curriculum packages, support groups, online help
desks, virtual schools and library resources are all available.
When you start out, you may want to make use of the commercial
curriculum packages. Readymade software also allows you to record
and log important achievements.
Local support groups are an excellent source of help, ideas and
material. This is where you get to meet experienced homeschoolers,
who will be more than happy to offer their insight and advice.
Once you settle into the homeschooling routine, you will find
yourself tailoring the curriculum to suit your own needs.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
How You Can Get Started with Home Schooling Your Child
Many parents who think about homeschooling as an option, always ask or think about how to get started. The same question bothered me when I first started teaching my kids and since then I know thing or two about it which I want to share here.
Education is a very important aspect in a human being’s existence. He needs education to nurture his craft, hone his talents, and provide him with all the possible answers to all of the wonders in this world.
Parents know this fact, that’s why they would always want the best for their children. In this manner, when the concept of home schooling was introduced into the society, they have been astonished with the fact that there are still other ways in educating their children.
At first, opting for home schooling is such an overwhelming matter. Most parents thought that it is impossible to teach a child through home schooling method.
On its basic concept, home schooling refers to the alternative way of educating children. It differs from the usual type of schooling because the learning process is done at home and the teachers are usually the parents themselves. They only use a particular type of teaching method that can be obtained in different institutions that provide home schooling programs.
Home schooling had provided many advantages and benefits to both parents and children. That’s why many parents have opted for home schooling in providing their child the indispensable education that their children need.
However, some parents find home schooling a daunting task. So, for parents who find home schooling a bit of an overwhelming task, here is a list of some tips on how to get you started in home schooling your child:
1. Arrive at a decision
The problem that most parents encounter when opting for home schooling is the fact that they find it hard to finally decide whether to home school their child or not. This is because deciding on this kind of thing is relatively important especially because the future of the child is dependent on it.
However, the choice should be based on the capacity of the parents to conform to the requirements in home schooling their child. They should be able to wholly participate with whatever items that were entailed in the program in order to provide the best education for their children.
2. Keep in mind that home schooling is a process
Since home schooling is a process, parents who want to home school their children should take things one at a time. For instance, if they have a pre-school child, they should focus more on what pre-school students should learn. They should not delve more on how to teach higher levels of education that are fit for students in higher levels.
3. Know your state laws regarding home schooling
In the United States, each state has its own laws regarding home schooling. Hence, it is best to know what your state asserts about home schooling so that you can provide the best education for your children in conformity with the law.
4. Look for a “support group”
Home schooling should not be the sole responsibility of the parents. That is why it is important for the parents to find a local “support group” wherein they can mingle with other homeschoolers who can provide them with additional pointers regarding the process.
Each member in the “support group” can help each other regarding the best technique in teaching their children.
5. Do your homework
Nothing can get you started on the right track than doing your homework first. In this way, you will be able to know the important details you need to be familiar with in order to provide the best education for your children.
Knowing what you have to do will give you the best guidance in home schooling.
6. Identify your child’s learning manner
It is best to assess your child’s learning manner first before you choose on a particular home schooling method. Conforming to your child’s learning manner will provide the best way on how to home school your child.
There are many choices available when teaching your child through a home school program. Though it is still best to always pattern the program that you will choose on your child’s learning style.
7. Organize the things needed in home schooling
Just like a typical school, home schooling your children would also need different materials and a proper place where they can easily and comfortable learn new things each day.
Hence, it’s best to organize the place first by providing them with an adequate space for their learning. Most children would respond to the process easily if they were comfortable with the place where their classes are held.
8. Have a budget for home schooling
Some parents tend to over indulge with the materials needed in home schooling. It does not necessarily mean that because you have lowered your expenses because you have opted to home school, as compared to sending your children into a typical public or private school, you can spend more.
It is still a must that you have to set a budget for home schooling. There are many books and other materials that can be found on the Internet which are definitely priced cheaper.
Indeed, home schooling is not just a process but also a lifestyle. It’s something that parents should be best acquainted with in order to give their children with the best education they need.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
Education is a very important aspect in a human being’s existence. He needs education to nurture his craft, hone his talents, and provide him with all the possible answers to all of the wonders in this world.
Parents know this fact, that’s why they would always want the best for their children. In this manner, when the concept of home schooling was introduced into the society, they have been astonished with the fact that there are still other ways in educating their children.
At first, opting for home schooling is such an overwhelming matter. Most parents thought that it is impossible to teach a child through home schooling method.
On its basic concept, home schooling refers to the alternative way of educating children. It differs from the usual type of schooling because the learning process is done at home and the teachers are usually the parents themselves. They only use a particular type of teaching method that can be obtained in different institutions that provide home schooling programs.
Home schooling had provided many advantages and benefits to both parents and children. That’s why many parents have opted for home schooling in providing their child the indispensable education that their children need.
However, some parents find home schooling a daunting task. So, for parents who find home schooling a bit of an overwhelming task, here is a list of some tips on how to get you started in home schooling your child:
1. Arrive at a decision
The problem that most parents encounter when opting for home schooling is the fact that they find it hard to finally decide whether to home school their child or not. This is because deciding on this kind of thing is relatively important especially because the future of the child is dependent on it.
However, the choice should be based on the capacity of the parents to conform to the requirements in home schooling their child. They should be able to wholly participate with whatever items that were entailed in the program in order to provide the best education for their children.
2. Keep in mind that home schooling is a process
Since home schooling is a process, parents who want to home school their children should take things one at a time. For instance, if they have a pre-school child, they should focus more on what pre-school students should learn. They should not delve more on how to teach higher levels of education that are fit for students in higher levels.
3. Know your state laws regarding home schooling
In the United States, each state has its own laws regarding home schooling. Hence, it is best to know what your state asserts about home schooling so that you can provide the best education for your children in conformity with the law.
4. Look for a “support group”
Home schooling should not be the sole responsibility of the parents. That is why it is important for the parents to find a local “support group” wherein they can mingle with other homeschoolers who can provide them with additional pointers regarding the process.
Each member in the “support group” can help each other regarding the best technique in teaching their children.
5. Do your homework
Nothing can get you started on the right track than doing your homework first. In this way, you will be able to know the important details you need to be familiar with in order to provide the best education for your children.
Knowing what you have to do will give you the best guidance in home schooling.
6. Identify your child’s learning manner
It is best to assess your child’s learning manner first before you choose on a particular home schooling method. Conforming to your child’s learning manner will provide the best way on how to home school your child.
There are many choices available when teaching your child through a home school program. Though it is still best to always pattern the program that you will choose on your child’s learning style.
7. Organize the things needed in home schooling
Just like a typical school, home schooling your children would also need different materials and a proper place where they can easily and comfortable learn new things each day.
Hence, it’s best to organize the place first by providing them with an adequate space for their learning. Most children would respond to the process easily if they were comfortable with the place where their classes are held.
8. Have a budget for home schooling
Some parents tend to over indulge with the materials needed in home schooling. It does not necessarily mean that because you have lowered your expenses because you have opted to home school, as compared to sending your children into a typical public or private school, you can spend more.
It is still a must that you have to set a budget for home schooling. There are many books and other materials that can be found on the Internet which are definitely priced cheaper.
Indeed, home schooling is not just a process but also a lifestyle. It’s something that parents should be best acquainted with in order to give their children with the best education they need.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Online Homeschooling
There are so many ways to learn and educate your child in school or at home. One of the growing trend is to teach and learn through online classes. There are online streaming videos that teach kids and teens about various subjects, you can do math online, you can do memory, puzzles, write an essay and learn music online as well. There are quite many vendors and classes available for those who are interested. Some can be free to fee based. You can learn from DVD educational learning, language learning through online education and teach your children various topics from the world.
If Johnny is fascinated by the blinking cursor and struggles to
master the movements of the mouse, you may want to look into some
of the recent developments in homeschooling techniques. Gone are
the days when parents had to buy material from vendors and then
pass it on to their children with explanations. Today, you get the
full course details, material and test papers online.
Children love to sit with the computer. In addition to making them
feel like an adult, the computer also makes use of the visual and
sound medium to make learning fun and easy. Streaming video and
audio show various scientific processes in great detail. The
colorful pictures and the various techniques used help to
effectively bind the data to the child's memory.
Many online resources have a fun testing center that aims to
measure the knowledge and skill level of your child. Complicated
math and science problems are dealt with deftly and elegantly.
A visit to an e-library can also be fun, especially when there
is an audio clip that reads out the passage to you.
E-learning has just begun to revolutionize the world of studies.
If harnessed properly, a child can assimilate an astonishing
amount of information from that great resource sitting right there
at your table - your P.C.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
If Johnny is fascinated by the blinking cursor and struggles to
master the movements of the mouse, you may want to look into some
of the recent developments in homeschooling techniques. Gone are
the days when parents had to buy material from vendors and then
pass it on to their children with explanations. Today, you get the
full course details, material and test papers online.
Children love to sit with the computer. In addition to making them
feel like an adult, the computer also makes use of the visual and
sound medium to make learning fun and easy. Streaming video and
audio show various scientific processes in great detail. The
colorful pictures and the various techniques used help to
effectively bind the data to the child's memory.
Many online resources have a fun testing center that aims to
measure the knowledge and skill level of your child. Complicated
math and science problems are dealt with deftly and elegantly.
A visit to an e-library can also be fun, especially when there
is an audio clip that reads out the passage to you.
E-learning has just begun to revolutionize the world of studies.
If harnessed properly, a child can assimilate an astonishing
amount of information from that great resource sitting right there
at your table - your P.C.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Types Of Homeschooling Methods
For many people, homeschooling may call to mind the picture of two
or three children sitting at a table and writing feverishly in
their workbooks, while mom or dad stands nearby. This is the not
entirely true. Given below are some of the most influential
and popular homeschooling methods.
The Charlotte Mason method:
Charlotte Mason is known as the founder of the homeschooling
movement. A homeschooler herself, she was passionate in her zeal
to lay out the foundations for an effective a complete
homeschooling program that is fun and educational at the same
time. This method focuses on all the core subjects with emphasis
placed on classical literature, poetry, fine arts, classical music
and craft. Mason used a variety of books from classical
literature, which she called 'Living Books'. Since this method
encourages a passionate awareness of literature, the child is read
to daily from the 'Living Books'. After this, the child is asked
to narrate what she has heard. This process begins at the age of
six, and by ten the child is expected to write her narrations in
her book. Mason also advocated the use of 'Nature Diaries'. After
each short and interesting lesson, the child is asked to go to
Nature and draw observations from Nature. Thus the child also
gains a sense of respect for her environment. Mason believed that
development of good character and behavior was essential to the
complete development of the child's personality.
The Eclectic Homeschooling:
This is a mixture of various homeschooling techniques. Here, the
innovative parents trust their own judgment and pick out the
topics that make the best curriculum for their child. Such parents
continuously look out for the best products that will meet the
needs of their homeschoolers. Most Eclectic homeschooling
curriculums are improvised. This means that the basic curriculum
is ready-made. The parents then make changes in the curriculum to
accommodate the individual needs and interests of their children.
The child's gifts, temperament, learning style and interests
dictate the curriculum. Eclectic programs include visits to the
museum, libraries and factories.
Unschooling:
A Boston public educator name John Holt laid the beginnings of the
unschooling method. He believed that children learned best when
they are free to learn at their own pace and when they are guided
by their own interests. His message was to 'unschool' the child.
This method is a hands-on approach to learning, where the parent
takes definite cues from the children. There is no definite
curriculum, schedules or materials. This method is the most
unstructured of the various homeschooling techniques.
The Montessori Method:
This method began in Italy, when it was observed that children
have acute sensitive periods, during which they undergo periods of
intense concentration. During such phases, a child will repeat an
activity till he gains a measure of self-satisfaction. The
Montessori method depends on a prepared environment to facilitate
learning. All the materials used in this method are designed to
satisfy the inner desire for spiritual development of the child.
The materials used progress from simple to complex, and are rather
expensive.
These are just a few of the methods of homeschooling. Whatever the
method, the underlying factor is flexibility and a keen interest
in the desires of the child. The secret is to use the child's
desire for knowledge to further his education.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
or three children sitting at a table and writing feverishly in
their workbooks, while mom or dad stands nearby. This is the not
entirely true. Given below are some of the most influential
and popular homeschooling methods.
The Charlotte Mason method:
Charlotte Mason is known as the founder of the homeschooling
movement. A homeschooler herself, she was passionate in her zeal
to lay out the foundations for an effective a complete
homeschooling program that is fun and educational at the same
time. This method focuses on all the core subjects with emphasis
placed on classical literature, poetry, fine arts, classical music
and craft. Mason used a variety of books from classical
literature, which she called 'Living Books'. Since this method
encourages a passionate awareness of literature, the child is read
to daily from the 'Living Books'. After this, the child is asked
to narrate what she has heard. This process begins at the age of
six, and by ten the child is expected to write her narrations in
her book. Mason also advocated the use of 'Nature Diaries'. After
each short and interesting lesson, the child is asked to go to
Nature and draw observations from Nature. Thus the child also
gains a sense of respect for her environment. Mason believed that
development of good character and behavior was essential to the
complete development of the child's personality.
The Eclectic Homeschooling:
This is a mixture of various homeschooling techniques. Here, the
innovative parents trust their own judgment and pick out the
topics that make the best curriculum for their child. Such parents
continuously look out for the best products that will meet the
needs of their homeschoolers. Most Eclectic homeschooling
curriculums are improvised. This means that the basic curriculum
is ready-made. The parents then make changes in the curriculum to
accommodate the individual needs and interests of their children.
The child's gifts, temperament, learning style and interests
dictate the curriculum. Eclectic programs include visits to the
museum, libraries and factories.
Unschooling:
A Boston public educator name John Holt laid the beginnings of the
unschooling method. He believed that children learned best when
they are free to learn at their own pace and when they are guided
by their own interests. His message was to 'unschool' the child.
This method is a hands-on approach to learning, where the parent
takes definite cues from the children. There is no definite
curriculum, schedules or materials. This method is the most
unstructured of the various homeschooling techniques.
The Montessori Method:
This method began in Italy, when it was observed that children
have acute sensitive periods, during which they undergo periods of
intense concentration. During such phases, a child will repeat an
activity till he gains a measure of self-satisfaction. The
Montessori method depends on a prepared environment to facilitate
learning. All the materials used in this method are designed to
satisfy the inner desire for spiritual development of the child.
The materials used progress from simple to complex, and are rather
expensive.
These are just a few of the methods of homeschooling. Whatever the
method, the underlying factor is flexibility and a keen interest
in the desires of the child. The secret is to use the child's
desire for knowledge to further his education.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
Managing Homeschooling hours
How many, how often and when? These are some oft-repeated
questions when it comes to homeschooling hours. Flexibility is of
course one of the key underlying principles behind homeschooling.
This flexibility applies not only to the curriculum but also to
the number of hours. It is only natural that parents, especially
if they have just started out on homeschooling should feel that
their children should be at their books all the time when regular
school-goers are at school. This is not only fallacious but can
also be damaging and counter-productive.
One of the most ignored but glaring drawbacks of the public
schooling system is the sheer waste of time and energy that it
causes. Many periods are simply wasted away and the child
effectively derives only 1-3 hours of study everyday. Then, there
are days when the studies become too intensive and other days when
it's only games and no work at all. There is a lot of 'invisible
wastage' involved here.
Early on in your homeschooling practice, work out a schedule. It
is advisable to stick to the same hours everyday. A routine makes
it easier to learn and gives structure to the learning experience.
It also tells the students that parents are strict about their
learning. A routine also allows your child to free his mind from
other activities and concentrate on studies. He knows that a
particular time is strictly set aside for learning.
The actual number of hours that you need depends on the curriculum
you have chosen and the learning style that suits your child. If
you are dealing with a subject that seems to be more complex, you
may need to sit with the child for a longer period. Using various
techniques, it may be necessary to demonstrate what you are trying
to teach. For instance, a lesson in Algebra may take more time
than a lesson in English.
Homeschooling does not refer to the practice of sitting in front
of the books and learning the printed matter. Field trips,
watching documentaries, visiting factories and libraries also make
up an important slice of the homeschooling process. It makes sense
to intersperse these activities so that learning becomes fun.
You may want to finish off the few hours of textbook learning
in the morning and dedicate the afternoons to these kinds
of activities.
Given the fact that too many public school hours are wasted in
meaningless activities ranging from talking to extra-curricular
activities, do not allow public school hours to dictate the time
you should spend teaching your child at home. Remember that at
home, he is getting a high-quality one-to-one time that is highly
productive. About 1-3 hours of study is enough in the primary
level. It is of course true that the more number of hours you put
in, the more learning takes place. This is also the reason why
homeschooling children are much smarter and more balanced than
regular school going children.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
questions when it comes to homeschooling hours. Flexibility is of
course one of the key underlying principles behind homeschooling.
This flexibility applies not only to the curriculum but also to
the number of hours. It is only natural that parents, especially
if they have just started out on homeschooling should feel that
their children should be at their books all the time when regular
school-goers are at school. This is not only fallacious but can
also be damaging and counter-productive.
One of the most ignored but glaring drawbacks of the public
schooling system is the sheer waste of time and energy that it
causes. Many periods are simply wasted away and the child
effectively derives only 1-3 hours of study everyday. Then, there
are days when the studies become too intensive and other days when
it's only games and no work at all. There is a lot of 'invisible
wastage' involved here.
Early on in your homeschooling practice, work out a schedule. It
is advisable to stick to the same hours everyday. A routine makes
it easier to learn and gives structure to the learning experience.
It also tells the students that parents are strict about their
learning. A routine also allows your child to free his mind from
other activities and concentrate on studies. He knows that a
particular time is strictly set aside for learning.
The actual number of hours that you need depends on the curriculum
you have chosen and the learning style that suits your child. If
you are dealing with a subject that seems to be more complex, you
may need to sit with the child for a longer period. Using various
techniques, it may be necessary to demonstrate what you are trying
to teach. For instance, a lesson in Algebra may take more time
than a lesson in English.
Homeschooling does not refer to the practice of sitting in front
of the books and learning the printed matter. Field trips,
watching documentaries, visiting factories and libraries also make
up an important slice of the homeschooling process. It makes sense
to intersperse these activities so that learning becomes fun.
You may want to finish off the few hours of textbook learning
in the morning and dedicate the afternoons to these kinds
of activities.
Given the fact that too many public school hours are wasted in
meaningless activities ranging from talking to extra-curricular
activities, do not allow public school hours to dictate the time
you should spend teaching your child at home. Remember that at
home, he is getting a high-quality one-to-one time that is highly
productive. About 1-3 hours of study is enough in the primary
level. It is of course true that the more number of hours you put
in, the more learning takes place. This is also the reason why
homeschooling children are much smarter and more balanced than
regular school going children.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
Friday, July 1, 2011
Will My Homeschooler Will and Issue Getting Into College?
Homeschooling and college issue is often been asked by people. Will my homeschooler have any problem or issue getting in to college? Many people wrongly assume just because the child is homeschooled, he or she will be left out compare to their school going counter part. Fear not, there are many homeschooler get in to college successfully and many college actually seek out homeschooler to join them.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
As children grow out of their little pants and are ready to begin
their teens, many parents wonder if they should continue with the
homeschooling program. They fear that colleges may not give equal
opportunities to a child educated at home.
Many fears of this kind were put to rest when 2 homeschooled boys
got admission into Harvard. Harvard does not require a high school
diploma for gaining admission to their degree program. Many
colleges are more interested in the knowledge and behavior of the
homeschooled children rather than their high school diplomas. In
fact, other things being similar many colleges prefer
homeschoolers because of the diversity and richness they bring to
their college life.
Admission requirements may vary. While some colleges require the
child to appear for the SAT, others may need a general equivalency
diploma. And some may not care for any tests at all. The criterion
may vary depending on the college that you wish to apply to. But,
college courses really do not require any high school background
or special training.
It is common to come across parents who frantically try to shift
out their homeschool children to high schools because they fear
unavailability of college admissions. But college admissions are
open to all educated individuals, regardless of whether they are
educated at home or at a public school.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
As children grow out of their little pants and are ready to begin
their teens, many parents wonder if they should continue with the
homeschooling program. They fear that colleges may not give equal
opportunities to a child educated at home.
Many fears of this kind were put to rest when 2 homeschooled boys
got admission into Harvard. Harvard does not require a high school
diploma for gaining admission to their degree program. Many
colleges are more interested in the knowledge and behavior of the
homeschooled children rather than their high school diplomas. In
fact, other things being similar many colleges prefer
homeschoolers because of the diversity and richness they bring to
their college life.
Admission requirements may vary. While some colleges require the
child to appear for the SAT, others may need a general equivalency
diploma. And some may not care for any tests at all. The criterion
may vary depending on the college that you wish to apply to. But,
college courses really do not require any high school background
or special training.
It is common to come across parents who frantically try to shift
out their homeschool children to high schools because they fear
unavailability of college admissions. But college admissions are
open to all educated individuals, regardless of whether they are
educated at home or at a public school.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
How to avoid Burnout When Homeschooling
When you are home with kids and teaching them, there bound to be burn out at some point of time. Homeschool burnout does not have be difficult to deal with, if we take some precaution to avoid it and make homeschooling more fun and enjoyable for you and your child.
When a parent takes on the responsibility of educating his or her
child, homeschool burnout is one of the more common issues they
have to deal with. There are many reasons that lead to this
burnout: an illness, a new baby, added responsibility, change in
routine etc.
The symptoms of burnout vary from lack of patience to overeating
and crying without any apparent reasons. Surprisingly, a burnout
need not be such a bad thing. It is a wake-up call - an indicator
that things are not going well and that you need to reschedule.
Reversing or avoiding a burnout is possible if you get fair
warning.
Firstly, lower your expectations. Do not be a perfectionist. Take
the good days with the bad. Next, when something does not seem to
work, look for alternative methods. Flexibility is a key
factor. If tension starts mounting, take a break. When necessary,
change the style of teaching. For instance, small children love to
take on their spellings when they quiz an adult.
Avoid overkill. Do not pack too many activities for the sake of
socializing your child. A worn out mom means a grouchy kid and
that means no happiness. Get support from your spouse or a
neighbor or a support group. Don't try to achieve everything by
yourself. Homeschooling means 'happy schooling' - don't forget
that.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
When a parent takes on the responsibility of educating his or her
child, homeschool burnout is one of the more common issues they
have to deal with. There are many reasons that lead to this
burnout: an illness, a new baby, added responsibility, change in
routine etc.
The symptoms of burnout vary from lack of patience to overeating
and crying without any apparent reasons. Surprisingly, a burnout
need not be such a bad thing. It is a wake-up call - an indicator
that things are not going well and that you need to reschedule.
Reversing or avoiding a burnout is possible if you get fair
warning.
Firstly, lower your expectations. Do not be a perfectionist. Take
the good days with the bad. Next, when something does not seem to
work, look for alternative methods. Flexibility is a key
factor. If tension starts mounting, take a break. When necessary,
change the style of teaching. For instance, small children love to
take on their spellings when they quiz an adult.
Avoid overkill. Do not pack too many activities for the sake of
socializing your child. A worn out mom means a grouchy kid and
that means no happiness. Get support from your spouse or a
neighbor or a support group. Don't try to achieve everything by
yourself. Homeschooling means 'happy schooling' - don't forget
that.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Possible Public School Disadvantages
Many people think of homeschooling often because of possible disadvantages of public schooling system.
When we consign our children to public schools, we feel satisfied
that they are receiving 'quality education. But, are we really
getting our money's worth? More importantly, are the children
gaining anything from this kind of a learning procedure?
Socialization is hailed as one of the greatest advantage of
schools. This is the place where the child picks up the rudiments
of social skills that help him survive. But in truth, a regular
school-going child can interact only with his peers. He may bully
younger children or fear older ones. He does not know how to
behave with an adult. This is because in the school environment
he interacts only with his peers. A homeschooling environment
brings in a more natural social environment.
A regular school going child cannot read literature. He cannot
keep silent or think in depth about any one thing. The artificial
'busy'ness imposed upon him by the school disallows quiet
contemplation. Rowdy and destructive behavior, as seen among
peers, is more noticeable in school-goers.
There is little long-standing knowledge among regular school goers
because most things are learnt for the exam. There is no
correlation of facts with life. The child may know a lot, but
understands very little. This is where the homeschoolers beat the
regular school goers. Ultimately, homeschoolers emerge more adept
at facing the outside world.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
What are you reasons for thinking about homeschooling?
When we consign our children to public schools, we feel satisfied
that they are receiving 'quality education. But, are we really
getting our money's worth? More importantly, are the children
gaining anything from this kind of a learning procedure?
Socialization is hailed as one of the greatest advantage of
schools. This is the place where the child picks up the rudiments
of social skills that help him survive. But in truth, a regular
school-going child can interact only with his peers. He may bully
younger children or fear older ones. He does not know how to
behave with an adult. This is because in the school environment
he interacts only with his peers. A homeschooling environment
brings in a more natural social environment.
A regular school going child cannot read literature. He cannot
keep silent or think in depth about any one thing. The artificial
'busy'ness imposed upon him by the school disallows quiet
contemplation. Rowdy and destructive behavior, as seen among
peers, is more noticeable in school-goers.
There is little long-standing knowledge among regular school goers
because most things are learnt for the exam. There is no
correlation of facts with life. The child may know a lot, but
understands very little. This is where the homeschoolers beat the
regular school goers. Ultimately, homeschoolers emerge more adept
at facing the outside world.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
What are you reasons for thinking about homeschooling?
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Field Trip Ideas For Homeschoolers
One of the best we can learn is from going to museums, field trips and actually seeing and doing how things works. Regular public schools also have field trips to educate the children. When you are homeschooling, you can customized and cater the field trip according to your child's interests. You can check out various museum and other ideas at homeschooling site.
Homeschool - Field trips
If you are going over a particular subject with the family and
feel that a field trip would be beneficial, then that's what you
should do - go for a trip. If you are attached to a support group,
you can plan to include other children too.
Here are some guidelines that will help you plan:
1) Collect the rates
2) Allowed ages
3) Special highlights
4) Size of the group
5) Timings
6) Eating facilities
Inform your support group of all these details well in advance so
that the necessary circulars may be sent out. On the appointed
day, arrange to meet with other parents and children in a
particular place. Plan the mode of travel and reach the place at
least 10 minutes in advance.
The field trip is not just fun. So, let your kids bring their
writing material. Allow them time to stare and admire. Do not
hurry them along. Collect data beforehand so that you can clear
doubts. Get help from a guide, if necessary. And most importantly,
have fun and enjoy the time you spend with your children.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
Homeschool - Field trips
If you are going over a particular subject with the family and
feel that a field trip would be beneficial, then that's what you
should do - go for a trip. If you are attached to a support group,
you can plan to include other children too.
Here are some guidelines that will help you plan:
1) Collect the rates
2) Allowed ages
3) Special highlights
4) Size of the group
5) Timings
6) Eating facilities
Inform your support group of all these details well in advance so
that the necessary circulars may be sent out. On the appointed
day, arrange to meet with other parents and children in a
particular place. Plan the mode of travel and reach the place at
least 10 minutes in advance.
The field trip is not just fun. So, let your kids bring their
writing material. Allow them time to stare and admire. Do not
hurry them along. Collect data beforehand so that you can clear
doubts. Get help from a guide, if necessary. And most importantly,
have fun and enjoy the time you spend with your children.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
How to Finance Your Homeschooling?
Financing homeschooling is one of the huge thing to consider when we started homeschooling and you might be wondering the same thing. Public school are free (sort of, we all pay taxes for it, even those of us who homeschool) and private school are just too darn expensive for many people. Here are some suggestions for how to finance your homeschooling supply, text books and field trip.
When people talk about teaching their children from home in the
absence of any definite or structured curriculum, it is perhaps
natural to think that homeschooling is cheap. But this is far from
the truth. Although homeschooling does not stick to any particular
text, this is perhaps more of a bane than a boon, when it comes to
finance.
When you need to make sure that your children receives
state-of-the-art education so that they can compete with regular
school goers, expenses will naturally mount. The actual cost of
educating a child at home is surprisingly high. Up-to-date
textbooks, course materials, a library, computing equipment,
lighting, specially designed furniture all cost money. In this
case, the cost may be slightly lesser when it comes to
homeschooling the second child. Add to this any additional tuition
cost for tutors who come to teach subjects that cannot be handled
by parents, like higher-level math or science. The total cost can
be a bit mind boggling.
If you take another important factor into consideration,
homeschooling costs may effective triple. The need for having one
of the parents tied to the house and fully dedicated to providing
education deprives the family of a second earning member. The
average homeschooling teacher is usually a lady with a college
degree. This means that she can easily bring home a pay of $35,000
or more. It is also interesting to note that most families that
have more than 2 children do not opt for homeschooling at all.
But, there are those who have been successful in carrying out
homeschooling at low rates. This is dependent on the size of the
family, the support group, the type of materials used and the
availability of the material. When successive children can reuse
the materials, cost goes down. Much of the course material can be
got from vendors of homeschooling materials. A membership in a
public library, theatre, concerts, ballets and other cultural
events also help in cutting costs. Sometimes, it is even possible
to barter expertise. For instance, the mother of an 8-year old
gives dancing classes, and her daughter receives drawing classes
for free. Support groups allow you to divide the cost of field
trips, science projects and fairs.
Whatever the cost, advocates of homeschooling say that the
benefits far outweigh these considerations. When you are able to
decide what knowledge your child receives and when he or she
should be taught and to what extent, it gives you a lot of freedom
and a lot of power. Both the children as well as the parents
benefit from this mutually enriching experience.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
When people talk about teaching their children from home in the
absence of any definite or structured curriculum, it is perhaps
natural to think that homeschooling is cheap. But this is far from
the truth. Although homeschooling does not stick to any particular
text, this is perhaps more of a bane than a boon, when it comes to
finance.
When you need to make sure that your children receives
state-of-the-art education so that they can compete with regular
school goers, expenses will naturally mount. The actual cost of
educating a child at home is surprisingly high. Up-to-date
textbooks, course materials, a library, computing equipment,
lighting, specially designed furniture all cost money. In this
case, the cost may be slightly lesser when it comes to
homeschooling the second child. Add to this any additional tuition
cost for tutors who come to teach subjects that cannot be handled
by parents, like higher-level math or science. The total cost can
be a bit mind boggling.
If you take another important factor into consideration,
homeschooling costs may effective triple. The need for having one
of the parents tied to the house and fully dedicated to providing
education deprives the family of a second earning member. The
average homeschooling teacher is usually a lady with a college
degree. This means that she can easily bring home a pay of $35,000
or more. It is also interesting to note that most families that
have more than 2 children do not opt for homeschooling at all.
But, there are those who have been successful in carrying out
homeschooling at low rates. This is dependent on the size of the
family, the support group, the type of materials used and the
availability of the material. When successive children can reuse
the materials, cost goes down. Much of the course material can be
got from vendors of homeschooling materials. A membership in a
public library, theatre, concerts, ballets and other cultural
events also help in cutting costs. Sometimes, it is even possible
to barter expertise. For instance, the mother of an 8-year old
gives dancing classes, and her daughter receives drawing classes
for free. Support groups allow you to divide the cost of field
trips, science projects and fairs.
Whatever the cost, advocates of homeschooling say that the
benefits far outweigh these considerations. When you are able to
decide what knowledge your child receives and when he or she
should be taught and to what extent, it gives you a lot of freedom
and a lot of power. Both the children as well as the parents
benefit from this mutually enriching experience.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
How to Grade Your Homeschooling Child
Homeschool and Grade your Child is one of the thing that many new homeschooling parents worry about and to make sure they are doing it right way that public school does it. If you ever wonder about here some ideas to help you with it.
How great must a parent feel spending time with her child at home, see her grow, discover and explore the world! Be all the way with her during her learning and explorations.
In America, homeschooling has been gaining popularity due to several reasons given by parents or they have seen the applicability to their child’s unique situation. But, laws pertaining to this new alternative approach to education vary from state to state and there are different interpretations to it by school districts.
Homeschooling does not mean bringing school to home because it will defeat the purpose of homeschooling which is to enjoy learning and have more time to socialize outside rather than spend the day at school and at night they bury themselves in their homework.
Often, this choice of educational approach is decided by the family due to certain unique situations like special children in the family. Others just simply want to be a hands-on parent to his or her kids’ learning and explorations.
In engaging to homeschooling, there are certain things you need to sacrifice like your time and finances. It will be taxing and would take too much of your time as a mother. No more pilates or yoga class for the moms or even office outside the home. For the breadwinners, it will be financially constraining because homeschooling is very expensive.
But try to weigh the benefits from the disadvantage of homeschooling your child:
• The curriculum programs offered most often are very open and flexible.
• The best teacher you can give your children: you.
• Parents are active partners in the children’s learning activities
• Parents as role models being reinforced as they work closely together with their kids, and,
• How learning can be fun!
If you as a family are really decided on homeschooling your child, you have to go through the process of reviewing the options available for you considering you have a special case, check out your child’s learning styles so you have to spend time with him and be flexible.
How about grades? Grading you child’s performance is very important especially if the state inspects you. Grades of your homeschooled child should be filed neatly and be well-organized.
Grades should be your concrete measure about your child’s performance. It will tell you much about what your child or how much he has mastered though this might be overwhelming work especially paperwork to be checked. Also, you cannot give scores to an effort like grades do. They put numbers to almost anything.
If your family is ready, has studied all other options and all are positive, then you can experience that learning is fun!
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
How great must a parent feel spending time with her child at home, see her grow, discover and explore the world! Be all the way with her during her learning and explorations.
In America, homeschooling has been gaining popularity due to several reasons given by parents or they have seen the applicability to their child’s unique situation. But, laws pertaining to this new alternative approach to education vary from state to state and there are different interpretations to it by school districts.
Homeschooling does not mean bringing school to home because it will defeat the purpose of homeschooling which is to enjoy learning and have more time to socialize outside rather than spend the day at school and at night they bury themselves in their homework.
Often, this choice of educational approach is decided by the family due to certain unique situations like special children in the family. Others just simply want to be a hands-on parent to his or her kids’ learning and explorations.
In engaging to homeschooling, there are certain things you need to sacrifice like your time and finances. It will be taxing and would take too much of your time as a mother. No more pilates or yoga class for the moms or even office outside the home. For the breadwinners, it will be financially constraining because homeschooling is very expensive.
But try to weigh the benefits from the disadvantage of homeschooling your child:
• The curriculum programs offered most often are very open and flexible.
• The best teacher you can give your children: you.
• Parents are active partners in the children’s learning activities
• Parents as role models being reinforced as they work closely together with their kids, and,
• How learning can be fun!
If you as a family are really decided on homeschooling your child, you have to go through the process of reviewing the options available for you considering you have a special case, check out your child’s learning styles so you have to spend time with him and be flexible.
How about grades? Grading you child’s performance is very important especially if the state inspects you. Grades of your homeschooled child should be filed neatly and be well-organized.
Grades should be your concrete measure about your child’s performance. It will tell you much about what your child or how much he has mastered though this might be overwhelming work especially paperwork to be checked. Also, you cannot give scores to an effort like grades do. They put numbers to almost anything.
If your family is ready, has studied all other options and all are positive, then you can experience that learning is fun!
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
Learning About Homeschooling
I always get asked about homeschooling as people in generally do not know too much details about it. Here some details to learn what is homeschooling?
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
The term 'homeschooling' basically refers to the process in which
one or more children of not more than 2 families are instructed by
parents or legal guardians, or a member of either household. The
laws that define homeschooling vary from State to State. The legal
requirements for establishing a homeschool also vary with the
State.
For most children, the actual process of learning begins much
before school. Many children already know their alphabets, the
names of animals, colors and other more complicated stuff before
they reach school. This is mostly due to the hard work of a member
of the family who has taken the time to teach the child.
Homeschooling is just a natural progression from here. Instead of
sending their children to a public school, parents make their own
curriculum and teach their children in ways that best suit the
child. This is homeschooling, in its most simplistic form.
Before you decide to go in for homeschooling, there are certain
important matters for consideration. First off, meet with parents
of other homeschoolers. Find out the pros and cons of
homeschooling. Then ask yourself why you would want to adopt this
method. This is a very important aspect, as the success of the
program depends on the clarity and sincerity of your purpose.
Next, it is time to consider the expenses of homeschooling. It may
cost anywhere between a few hundred dollars to a few thousand
every year. More importantly, you are also effectively shutting
out any job opportunity for one of the parents. It is only obvious
that one parent will have to stay at home full time to manage the
homeschool. A home-based business however is a great alternative.
Are you qualified to take on homeschooling for your children?
Teaching is a continuation of your own learning process. With the
advent of the internet, information is aplenty. There are various
books and resources for those interested in homeschooling. Go
through the various methods of homeschooling and choose one that
is most suited to you. It helps if you know what kind of learning
style your child has. Also, find out what your child feels about
homeschooling before you start.
Every state has its own laws regarding homeschooling. For
instance, in North Carolina, you must first file a 'Notice of
Intent' to start a home school. In this you have to mention if the
school is a 'Private church' school or a 'qualified non-public
school'. The persons providing the education are required to have
at least a high school diploma. You have to maintain an annual
record of the child's attendance and disease immunization. Every
year, the child is required to undergo a standardized test. Each
student attending the eleventh grade has to take a nationally
standardized test. These are the requirements in North Carolina,
but it is enough to give you a good idea of what homeschooling
entails.
Homeschooling may seem like a lot of fun and freedom from the
outside. However, things are seldom as simple as they seem.
Homeschooling is a lot of added responsibility and hard work. But,
if successful, it will forge a strong bond of love and respect
between parent and child, while providing your child with the best
form of education he needs.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
The term 'homeschooling' basically refers to the process in which
one or more children of not more than 2 families are instructed by
parents or legal guardians, or a member of either household. The
laws that define homeschooling vary from State to State. The legal
requirements for establishing a homeschool also vary with the
State.
For most children, the actual process of learning begins much
before school. Many children already know their alphabets, the
names of animals, colors and other more complicated stuff before
they reach school. This is mostly due to the hard work of a member
of the family who has taken the time to teach the child.
Homeschooling is just a natural progression from here. Instead of
sending their children to a public school, parents make their own
curriculum and teach their children in ways that best suit the
child. This is homeschooling, in its most simplistic form.
Before you decide to go in for homeschooling, there are certain
important matters for consideration. First off, meet with parents
of other homeschoolers. Find out the pros and cons of
homeschooling. Then ask yourself why you would want to adopt this
method. This is a very important aspect, as the success of the
program depends on the clarity and sincerity of your purpose.
Next, it is time to consider the expenses of homeschooling. It may
cost anywhere between a few hundred dollars to a few thousand
every year. More importantly, you are also effectively shutting
out any job opportunity for one of the parents. It is only obvious
that one parent will have to stay at home full time to manage the
homeschool. A home-based business however is a great alternative.
Are you qualified to take on homeschooling for your children?
Teaching is a continuation of your own learning process. With the
advent of the internet, information is aplenty. There are various
books and resources for those interested in homeschooling. Go
through the various methods of homeschooling and choose one that
is most suited to you. It helps if you know what kind of learning
style your child has. Also, find out what your child feels about
homeschooling before you start.
Every state has its own laws regarding homeschooling. For
instance, in North Carolina, you must first file a 'Notice of
Intent' to start a home school. In this you have to mention if the
school is a 'Private church' school or a 'qualified non-public
school'. The persons providing the education are required to have
at least a high school diploma. You have to maintain an annual
record of the child's attendance and disease immunization. Every
year, the child is required to undergo a standardized test. Each
student attending the eleventh grade has to take a nationally
standardized test. These are the requirements in North Carolina,
but it is enough to give you a good idea of what homeschooling
entails.
Homeschooling may seem like a lot of fun and freedom from the
outside. However, things are seldom as simple as they seem.
Homeschooling is a lot of added responsibility and hard work. But,
if successful, it will forge a strong bond of love and respect
between parent and child, while providing your child with the best
form of education he needs.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
If you are new to homeschooling, curious about homeschooling or veteran homeschooler who wants to try out a new ways to teach at home, there are plenty of books out there. I have read them all (okay, most) and I am sharing the top and best of best homeschooling books for you here so you do not have to waste your precious time reading duds.
This 240 page book shares Unschooling, a homeschooling method based on the belief that kids learn best when allowed to pursue their natural curiosities and interests, is practiced by 10 to 15 percent of the estimated 1.5 million homeschoolers in the United States. There is no curriculum or master plan for allowing children to decide when, what, and how they will learn, but veteran homeschooler Mary Griffith comes as close as you can get in this slim manual. Written in a conversational, salon-style manner, The Unschooling Handbook is liberally peppered with anecdotes and practical advice from unschoolers, identified by their first names and home states. The book also includes resources such as one teenager's sample "transcript," a typical weekly log of a third-grader's activities, and helpful lists of magazines, online mailing lists, Web sites, and catalogs. Griffith, a board member of the Homeschool Association of California (and the author of The Homeschooling Handbook), names Margaret Mead and Thomas Edison as two examples of those who have profited from unschooled childhoods, and further claims that research validates support for this controversial form of education. The "evidence" she cites, however, is predominantly theoretical writings from noted educators about the benefits of child-centered learning. The handbook suffers from a mild case of the Lake Wobegone syndrome--every unschooled children is seen as an above-average self-starter on the verge of genius--yet despite this overly rosy approach, the book is a well-organized guide for homeschoolers and other families contemplating the "un" life.
Here what back book Jackets says
"Overwhelmed?
Wonder how others do it all?
Not sure you're cut out for homeschooling?
It's time to break a myth: Homeschooling families aren't perfect. In fact, real-life families like yours can be--and are--successful homeschoolers! That's the life message of Sonya Haskins, who is dedicated to helping everyday families meet the challenges of home education and enjoy its countless benefits.
In this practical, encouraging guide, Haskins shares tried and true ideas for how to:
Discover a realistic vision of homeschooling for your family
Help your child get excited about learning
Find a routine that fits your goals and lifestyle
Nurture a biblical worldview in your child's heart and mind
And much more
Whether you are already homeschooling or just considering it, this book offers the support, answers, and flexible strategies to help you succeed. Great resources for many homeschooling parents.
This comprehensive collection of tried-and-true—and generally inexpensive—ideas provides the best-of-the-best homeschooling activities that can be done anywhere, anytime, and by anyone. As a homeschooling parent, we are always looking for new and creative ways to teach our child the basics. Look no longer! Inside this innovative helper, you'll find kid-tested and parent-approved techniques for learning math, science, writing, history, manners, and more that you can easily adapt to your family's homeschooling needs. And even if you don't homeschool, you'll find this book a great teaching tool outside the classroom. You'll discover fun and educational activities for kids ages 3 to 12, including how to:
·Create maps based on favorite stories, such as Treasure Island or The Wizard of Oz
·Make letters out of French fries as an alphabet learning aid
·Explore architecture by building igloos, castles, and bridges with sugar cubes and icing
·Review spelling words by writing them on the sidewalk with chalk
·And many more!
This was so useful when we started homeschooling and I use it even now for reference once in awhile. Here one reader said in her own words. "This book was so amazing I am lending it out to people who aren't even thinking of homeschooling... it was just so wonderful to read! I was about to start homeschooling my oldest and didn't have any idea where to start. Lisa Dobson addressed each of my fears and questions... and I don't even know her! This book is so down to earth that it will put anyone at ease, and the advice she and the many many other homeschoolers give is so practical. I started using the information immediately. There are two wonderful features I would like to detail for you: first of all, she takes nine different styles of homeschooling, explains them thoroughly, and then takes you through "A week in the life" with a family using each. As a new homeschooler, this helped me immensely by helping me eliminate those philosophies which I know would not work for our family, but find some philosophies that I will research further. The second feature are the abundance of "What I Wish I had Known the First Year" highlights throughout the book. You will not regret this purchase! "
This 320 pages book is must for every homeschooler.The key to successful home education, homeschool veterans will tell you, is determining your educational philosophy and marrying it to your child’s learning style. Then you can make an informed decision in choosing the right educational curriculum for the child. This is the formula for success. In 100 Top Picks for Homeschool Curriculum, homeschool guru Cathy Duffy can help you accomplish these critical tasks. Cathy will give you her top choices from every subject area, approaching everything through a Christian worldview perspective. This book is a critical volume for the homeschooling community.
What are you favorite reference books for homeschooling?
Read Homeschooling reference books at Homeschool world site
1. The Unschooling Handbook : How to Use the Whole World As Your Child's Classroom
This 240 page book shares Unschooling, a homeschooling method based on the belief that kids learn best when allowed to pursue their natural curiosities and interests, is practiced by 10 to 15 percent of the estimated 1.5 million homeschoolers in the United States. There is no curriculum or master plan for allowing children to decide when, what, and how they will learn, but veteran homeschooler Mary Griffith comes as close as you can get in this slim manual. Written in a conversational, salon-style manner, The Unschooling Handbook is liberally peppered with anecdotes and practical advice from unschoolers, identified by their first names and home states. The book also includes resources such as one teenager's sample "transcript," a typical weekly log of a third-grader's activities, and helpful lists of magazines, online mailing lists, Web sites, and catalogs. Griffith, a board member of the Homeschool Association of California (and the author of The Homeschooling Handbook), names Margaret Mead and Thomas Edison as two examples of those who have profited from unschooled childhoods, and further claims that research validates support for this controversial form of education. The "evidence" she cites, however, is predominantly theoretical writings from noted educators about the benefits of child-centered learning. The handbook suffers from a mild case of the Lake Wobegone syndrome--every unschooled children is seen as an above-average self-starter on the verge of genius--yet despite this overly rosy approach, the book is a well-organized guide for homeschoolers and other families contemplating the "un" life.
2. Homeschooling for the Rest of Us: How Your One-of-a-Kind Family Can Make Homeschooling and Real Life Work
Here what back book Jackets says
"Overwhelmed?
Wonder how others do it all?
Not sure you're cut out for homeschooling?
It's time to break a myth: Homeschooling families aren't perfect. In fact, real-life families like yours can be--and are--successful homeschoolers! That's the life message of Sonya Haskins, who is dedicated to helping everyday families meet the challenges of home education and enjoy its countless benefits.
In this practical, encouraging guide, Haskins shares tried and true ideas for how to:
Discover a realistic vision of homeschooling for your family
Help your child get excited about learning
Find a routine that fits your goals and lifestyle
Nurture a biblical worldview in your child's heart and mind
And much more
Whether you are already homeschooling or just considering it, this book offers the support, answers, and flexible strategies to help you succeed. Great resources for many homeschooling parents.
3. The Ultimate Book of Homeschooling Ideas: 500+ Fun and Creative Learning Activities for Kids Ages 3-12
This comprehensive collection of tried-and-true—and generally inexpensive—ideas provides the best-of-the-best homeschooling activities that can be done anywhere, anytime, and by anyone. As a homeschooling parent, we are always looking for new and creative ways to teach our child the basics. Look no longer! Inside this innovative helper, you'll find kid-tested and parent-approved techniques for learning math, science, writing, history, manners, and more that you can easily adapt to your family's homeschooling needs. And even if you don't homeschool, you'll find this book a great teaching tool outside the classroom. You'll discover fun and educational activities for kids ages 3 to 12, including how to:
·Create maps based on favorite stories, such as Treasure Island or The Wizard of Oz
·Make letters out of French fries as an alphabet learning aid
·Explore architecture by building igloos, castles, and bridges with sugar cubes and icing
·Review spelling words by writing them on the sidewalk with chalk
·And many more!
4. The First Year of Homeschooling Your Child: Your Complete Guide to Getting Off to the Right Start
This was so useful when we started homeschooling and I use it even now for reference once in awhile. Here one reader said in her own words. "This book was so amazing I am lending it out to people who aren't even thinking of homeschooling... it was just so wonderful to read! I was about to start homeschooling my oldest and didn't have any idea where to start. Lisa Dobson addressed each of my fears and questions... and I don't even know her! This book is so down to earth that it will put anyone at ease, and the advice she and the many many other homeschoolers give is so practical. I started using the information immediately. There are two wonderful features I would like to detail for you: first of all, she takes nine different styles of homeschooling, explains them thoroughly, and then takes you through "A week in the life" with a family using each. As a new homeschooler, this helped me immensely by helping me eliminate those philosophies which I know would not work for our family, but find some philosophies that I will research further. The second feature are the abundance of "What I Wish I had Known the First Year" highlights throughout the book. You will not regret this purchase! "
5. 100 Top Picks for Homeschool Curriculum: Choosing the Right Curriculum and Approach for Your Child's Learning Style
This 320 pages book is must for every homeschooler.The key to successful home education, homeschool veterans will tell you, is determining your educational philosophy and marrying it to your child’s learning style. Then you can make an informed decision in choosing the right educational curriculum for the child. This is the formula for success. In 100 Top Picks for Homeschool Curriculum, homeschool guru Cathy Duffy can help you accomplish these critical tasks. Cathy will give you her top choices from every subject area, approaching everything through a Christian worldview perspective. This book is a critical volume for the homeschooling community.
What are you favorite reference books for homeschooling?
Read Homeschooling reference books at Homeschool world site
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Common Homeschooling Misconception: Socialization
For many parents who are not homeschooling or interested in homeschooling always have a big misconception about socialization if you are homeschooling. While I have talked about it in my previous posts called frequently asked questions but I wanted to write about more in detailed here as it is one of most asked question about homeschooling.
Well first there is difference between social life and socialization, according to Mrs. D,
Socialization is knowing how to act appropriately in various situations and is best taught by adults who care about the child.
Socialization is not the same as having a social life. Remember this when you hear the dreaded "S" word from others. Your homeschooled kids will have as many friends and activities as they want and you allow (and likely more time than their PS peers to enjoy them).
They will be socialized by their parents and other caring people who will help them learn appropriate behavior in different situations- at home, in public, in informal and formal activities. They will have many opportunities to learn and practice social skills as they will be interacting with the real world on a regular basis.
I think Mrs. D is right about it. But you know what? Many people have the misconception that homeschoolers are isolated at home all day, with little or no contact with the outside world. What is your experience? Has your family struggled in this area? What social activities do your children participate in? Do appropriate social skills come naturally to your children or do you have to work at it?
That is not true, I have 2 young kids and they are out in sport classes, field trip, playing in park, taking a hands on experience classes to make volcano, dinosaur fossils or planting new flowers with other mixed age kids. Here are a few ways that homeschooler kids and parents can keep social life active!
Homeschooled students can have a very busy and abundant social life. For some, this happens naturally, others have to work a little harder to arrange activities for their children. Here are a few of the many activities homeschooled children participate in:
Sometimes, problem with homeschooling is that parents and kids can have "too much" socialization AKA too many activities to deal with. Many parents actually have to actually make an effort do studying or alone time to make sure kids and teens get plenty of rest and down time as well.
As you can tell, socialization is overrated in public school, now with some public school are cutting recess time to 15-30 minutes so they can cover more teaching, kids have less and less time to interact with peers at the school. It is activities such as sports, field trip that makes good opportunity to make new friendship when you spend quality time together.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
Well first there is difference between social life and socialization, according to Mrs. D,
Socialization is knowing how to act appropriately in various situations and is best taught by adults who care about the child.
Socialization is not the same as having a social life. Remember this when you hear the dreaded "S" word from others. Your homeschooled kids will have as many friends and activities as they want and you allow (and likely more time than their PS peers to enjoy them).
They will be socialized by their parents and other caring people who will help them learn appropriate behavior in different situations- at home, in public, in informal and formal activities. They will have many opportunities to learn and practice social skills as they will be interacting with the real world on a regular basis.
I think Mrs. D is right about it. But you know what? Many people have the misconception that homeschoolers are isolated at home all day, with little or no contact with the outside world. What is your experience? Has your family struggled in this area? What social activities do your children participate in? Do appropriate social skills come naturally to your children or do you have to work at it?
That is not true, I have 2 young kids and they are out in sport classes, field trip, playing in park, taking a hands on experience classes to make volcano, dinosaur fossils or planting new flowers with other mixed age kids. Here are a few ways that homeschooler kids and parents can keep social life active!
Homeschooled students can have a very busy and abundant social life. For some, this happens naturally, others have to work a little harder to arrange activities for their children. Here are a few of the many activities homeschooled children participate in:
- Other homeschoolers: Many homeschool families participate in homeschool group activities such as field trips, park days, coop classes.
- Sports programs: Students can participate in city sports, homeschool sports programs, and some public schools open up their sports programs to homeschooled students.
- Youth Groups: Many homeschool students join clubs and programs like 4-H, scouts, youth groups, etc.
- Friends: Play dates are often arranged with friends.
- Volunteer Work: Some homeschooling families volunteer at nursing homes, feeding the hungry and other community opportunities.
Sometimes, problem with homeschooling is that parents and kids can have "too much" socialization AKA too many activities to deal with. Many parents actually have to actually make an effort do studying or alone time to make sure kids and teens get plenty of rest and down time as well.
As you can tell, socialization is overrated in public school, now with some public school are cutting recess time to 15-30 minutes so they can cover more teaching, kids have less and less time to interact with peers at the school. It is activities such as sports, field trip that makes good opportunity to make new friendship when you spend quality time together.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Here are some Homeschooling Videos for Further Learning about Homeschooler and its issues:
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
Sample Videos of Children's Learning
ABC Phonics Song
Counting 1 to 10
Dry Ice Science Project
Addition and Substraction Rap
How to Tell Time (Analog and Digital)
Getting Started To Homeschooling
Once you have decided to start homeschooling, you will need step by step guide to get you started off in right foot. Here are some simple steps for your homeschooling guidance that may help you get started in Homeschooling.
1. Making a Decision:
Choosing to do homeschooling is not for everyone and requires planning. Once you have read up information here, decide if that is something you and your child is ready to take on. Decision to homeschool is not easiest and it does not have to be all or nothing. You can decide to homeschool one year at the time, but give it your best shot if you decide to go for it.
2. Start off on right way:
Starting off right will make you new adventure in homeschooling much smoother as with any new thing you start. Here are some simple steps to get it organized and plan for it.
3. Legal issues:
Homeschooling is legal in 50 states of US and Canada and other countries but rules are little different everywhere. Find out Local Homeschooling Legal Laws and follow it to stay legal and proper.
4. Find Support:
Once you decide on homeschooling, find support from your child, spouse, friends and relatives as you need. The most important support are from your kids and spouse as they will be facing it daily. In addition to this, you may want to find local homschool support group of other like minded homeschooling families to meet for park days, play dates or field trips together. When you are starting out, this support is very crucial and helpful.
5. Learning Style:
Find out what is your child's learning style is, some kids learn better verbally, while some do better by visual approach by seeing things and there are others who learn best by actually trying it out. You may find that your child may fall in to 2 or more categories of learning style and that is okay too. This will help you as a teacher to teach best way for your child.
Find more about different learning style: Here
6. Decide if de-schooling is needed:
If you are starting to homeschool at preschool level and your child never has been to public school, this step is not needed. De-schooling is process for many kids who have gone to public school and whatever reason now trying out to homeschool. Many times kids are taken out of school because of bullying, emotional issues and problems with learning has happened in regular school, these students will need time to get rid of unplesant feelings, routine and schedule of schooling for while in order to get back to learning again.
You can find out more about deschooling here: Click here.
7. You can start School in Midyear:
Let us suppose, your child in public school is having some issues with school and does not want to go, can you start homeschooling mid year? of course, you can. Just like you can change school in mid year, if you move to different city or state, you can do that staying in same place with homeschooling. You do not need to wait for school year to end to make uncomfortable situation continue with your child. You need to find right legal homeschool ways to ask for school to transfer his record to your new homeschool entity, just follow the process that is legal in your area to make sure you do not any hassle from school administration.
8. Choose Curriculum:
There are many homeschooling educational companies that sell curriculums for homeschooling parents. There are several ways to choose a curriculum that is right for your child's age and his or her skill level. Most of them do not have to cost lot of money and even those do cost money have better return over the years so do not skimp on certain things and save on other issues.
9. Keep it fun:
Some families have class setting just like public school, and they do all worksheets and follow course work, other families are more hands on and unschooler where kids lead learning happens. Whatever your teaching style is, make sure to focus on fun of learning and not to make it like displined rigid environment with unbreakble rules. Learning happens when kid's mind are open and eager, so make it fun and interesting for them.
If your child is having fun learning about butterflies, even though class time might be over, continue talking to him or her that is best time learning can happen. Homeschooling is all about flexibility and focusing on child.
10. Take time to Live and fun:
Switch off the teacher mode once school is over and be mom or dad. That is one of the hardest thing for some homeschooling parent to do, as they are constantly seeing an oppurtunity to teach or show something cool to a child.While learning can happen in every ordinary things we do in life, sometimes just be mom or dad and let kid have time to play and imagine. Limit Television and Un-necessary Internet time.
Whatever you do, have fun to in order to engage and teach and strenthen the bond between you and your kids.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
Getting Started in Homeschooling
1. Making a Decision:
Choosing to do homeschooling is not for everyone and requires planning. Once you have read up information here, decide if that is something you and your child is ready to take on. Decision to homeschool is not easiest and it does not have to be all or nothing. You can decide to homeschool one year at the time, but give it your best shot if you decide to go for it.
2. Start off on right way:
Starting off right will make you new adventure in homeschooling much smoother as with any new thing you start. Here are some simple steps to get it organized and plan for it.
- Get your mentally ready as a family
- Set up area for homeschooling in home
- Set up a time table and organization so you will stay focus on schooling
- Decide what type of schooling you will be doing such as setting up school your self, using public school or charter's school's homeschool or independent study program.
- Have school supply list ready and buy record keeping planners and oranizers
- Keep all kids vaccines, birth certificates in school file cabinet just like local school. You may never need to show it anyone, but have it ready just in case.
- Find a local support group for you and your child.
3. Legal issues:
Homeschooling is legal in 50 states of US and Canada and other countries but rules are little different everywhere. Find out Local Homeschooling Legal Laws and follow it to stay legal and proper.
4. Find Support:
Once you decide on homeschooling, find support from your child, spouse, friends and relatives as you need. The most important support are from your kids and spouse as they will be facing it daily. In addition to this, you may want to find local homschool support group of other like minded homeschooling families to meet for park days, play dates or field trips together. When you are starting out, this support is very crucial and helpful.
5. Learning Style:
Find out what is your child's learning style is, some kids learn better verbally, while some do better by visual approach by seeing things and there are others who learn best by actually trying it out. You may find that your child may fall in to 2 or more categories of learning style and that is okay too. This will help you as a teacher to teach best way for your child.
- Visual Learner
- Auditary or Voice learner
- Tele Kinestic Learner
Find more about different learning style: Here
6. Decide if de-schooling is needed:
If you are starting to homeschool at preschool level and your child never has been to public school, this step is not needed. De-schooling is process for many kids who have gone to public school and whatever reason now trying out to homeschool. Many times kids are taken out of school because of bullying, emotional issues and problems with learning has happened in regular school, these students will need time to get rid of unplesant feelings, routine and schedule of schooling for while in order to get back to learning again.
You can find out more about deschooling here: Click here.
7. You can start School in Midyear:
Let us suppose, your child in public school is having some issues with school and does not want to go, can you start homeschooling mid year? of course, you can. Just like you can change school in mid year, if you move to different city or state, you can do that staying in same place with homeschooling. You do not need to wait for school year to end to make uncomfortable situation continue with your child. You need to find right legal homeschool ways to ask for school to transfer his record to your new homeschool entity, just follow the process that is legal in your area to make sure you do not any hassle from school administration.
8. Choose Curriculum:
There are many homeschooling educational companies that sell curriculums for homeschooling parents. There are several ways to choose a curriculum that is right for your child's age and his or her skill level. Most of them do not have to cost lot of money and even those do cost money have better return over the years so do not skimp on certain things and save on other issues.
- Use public library, PBS and Internet to supplement education
- For preschool and KG levels not much curriculum is needed, basic phonics program, reading to them, colors and shapes will do.
- You can check out some curriculum at library before buying it online as there are many online companies selling homeschooling curriculum in various levels.
- You can choose online or video based educational series
- Your child can take classes by independent vendor teaching program on subject you know little about.
- Some basic things you can teach your child, such as reading, cooking, simple math, algebra, science projects and more.
- You can choose to buy grade level curriculum which will cover all required subjects to learn or you can buy different subjects from different vendors, eclectic learning works for many homeschooler. For example, a kindergartener can read 2nd grade level language arts program and 1st grade level math program and KG level social studies, you can do that in homeschooling.
9. Keep it fun:
Some families have class setting just like public school, and they do all worksheets and follow course work, other families are more hands on and unschooler where kids lead learning happens. Whatever your teaching style is, make sure to focus on fun of learning and not to make it like displined rigid environment with unbreakble rules. Learning happens when kid's mind are open and eager, so make it fun and interesting for them.
If your child is having fun learning about butterflies, even though class time might be over, continue talking to him or her that is best time learning can happen. Homeschooling is all about flexibility and focusing on child.
10. Take time to Live and fun:
Switch off the teacher mode once school is over and be mom or dad. That is one of the hardest thing for some homeschooling parent to do, as they are constantly seeing an oppurtunity to teach or show something cool to a child.While learning can happen in every ordinary things we do in life, sometimes just be mom or dad and let kid have time to play and imagine. Limit Television and Un-necessary Internet time.
Whatever you do, have fun to in order to engage and teach and strenthen the bond between you and your kids.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
Homeschooling FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
If you are new to homeschooling or have questions before you get started, please check here. We have tried to answer most frequently asked questions here.
Homeschooling is where usually one parent takes responsibility of their child education. It is one of the most flexible and easy to adapt education system as it adapts to child's skill and pace they can learn. That means learning classes from private vendors, community colleges, co-op schools, and at home. Everything we do in daily life can be learning experience, so education continues even after school hours.
Some people consider that only poor people, lazy people do homeschooling and kids do not learn much at home. This is hardly the truth. There are many rich and famous people have done homeschooling in past and current time. Please check out famous homeschooler articles for current actors, musicians and other famous people who are homeschooling their kids right now.
Other popular myth is only Christians do homeschooling. While there are many Christian who do homeschooling, many homeschooler are various religion or not religious at all. Some are doctors, engineers, teachers, some are from constructions, janitors and so on. Homeschooler like you and me, normal human being who wants to be charge of their child's education.
Homeschooling is legal in 50 states of USA, Canada. Some other countries in Asia and Europe have varied legality for homeschoolers, some are more friendly then others. Every state and country have their laws, some are very basic to just let your current school district know about, some school also offer homeschool or independent study program that parent can do home. We are in process of putting data up for each 50 states and other countries, so watch this space.
One of the major concern for new homeschooling family is lack of social aspect that traditional school may bring. It is also keeps from potential people from trying out homeschooling. However, homeschoolers get plenty social time with other children and adults when they have field trip, park days and classes being taken at vendor's or at co-op. Sometimes, there are also sports, scouts and other social aspects that any other traditional school going kids do plus more. Kids can be part of soccer team, pen pal, art camps, piano and other music gathering along with educational part of school that will be sure to give plenty of social time to talk, learn and play together.
Many homeschooler kids do well with kids their own age along with adult conversation as they are part of mixed ages social gathering just like in real life.
Why would anyone want to homeschool when there are free public school available? Many parents or kids choose to homeschool for following reasons;
Homeschooling is not easy way out, it requires proper planning and discipline to doing school work while living daily life of chores and other necessary things. Here are some of the things to consider when choosing to homeschool.
Homeschooling can cost little to thousands of dollars per semester, it depends on how you teach and what resources you can use. Homeschooling does not have to be expensive though. There are free resources available to all tax payers regardless they choose public school or private, you can use them; They are public library for learning materials, educational videos, reading, phonics programs, free museum days, pbs children and educational shows, internet, you tube sites.
There are some costs for taking classes, buying boxed curriculum, paid field trip, sports, piano/music classes, art classes and so on. Some of the expense people have to do it, even for free public school. You can minimize the expenses by buying used curriculum, buying what you need and reusing them with other children and selling them once you are done to keep cost at reasonable budget.
This is one of the major concerned for any new potential homeschooler and it is valid question. To answer it in short term: Yes, your child will be able to go to good college or even IVY league college even if he or she is homeschooled. Matter of fact, some of the best college actually seek out homeschooler kids to recruit fot their college. According to stats, homeschooler kids tend to have higher ACT scores compared to traditional school counter parts, which helps. Universities like Stanford and Purdue have homeschoolers kids in engineering, sport scholarship as well. So, there are good chance for your homeschooler for admission in college and university to be admitted.
While it is true, homeshcooling done in smaller group class or at home, many homeschooler do not have practice raising hand to ask question or stand in lines, in most cases homeschoolers fit in very well in society as well or sometimes better compared to other kids. How so you ask? Well, if you see in traditional school class, kids are approximately same age, (plus or minus 6 months), so kids in school do not get much practice to converse with other ages of kids or adults. How many time you work as an adult in office where you see people same age as you? Hardly never, so when you actually homeschool, one tends to be around, younger kids to older adults, just like in real life situation at life and in office, kids tend to be better prepared to handle world in most cases.
Traditional school has other issues such as bullying, guns and violence which is much less when one is homeschooling or one parent is there to intervene right away; At school, there are good teachers who look after kid's benefit but typical high 20-40 students to 1 teacher ratio does not make it easy for them to watch all of them.
Homeschooling has its roots in America and it is legal in all 50 states and Canada, other countries have followed the suit and many countries have small to big homeschooling community. You may want to search on net for your local area homeschooling program to be sure to find support community. You may want to look at look in our resource area as we are in process of updating and adding details that can be helpful to homeshcooler no matter where they live.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
1. What is Homeschooling?
Homeschooling is where usually one parent takes responsibility of their child education. It is one of the most flexible and easy to adapt education system as it adapts to child's skill and pace they can learn. That means learning classes from private vendors, community colleges, co-op schools, and at home. Everything we do in daily life can be learning experience, so education continues even after school hours.
2. What is not homeschooling?Myths about Homeschooling:
Some people consider that only poor people, lazy people do homeschooling and kids do not learn much at home. This is hardly the truth. There are many rich and famous people have done homeschooling in past and current time. Please check out famous homeschooler articles for current actors, musicians and other famous people who are homeschooling their kids right now.
Other popular myth is only Christians do homeschooling. While there are many Christian who do homeschooling, many homeschooler are various religion or not religious at all. Some are doctors, engineers, teachers, some are from constructions, janitors and so on. Homeschooler like you and me, normal human being who wants to be charge of their child's education.
3. Come on, it is not legal is it?
Homeschooling is legal in 50 states of USA, Canada. Some other countries in Asia and Europe have varied legality for homeschoolers, some are more friendly then others. Every state and country have their laws, some are very basic to just let your current school district know about, some school also offer homeschool or independent study program that parent can do home. We are in process of putting data up for each 50 states and other countries, so watch this space.
4. What about Socialization? Will not child be lonely?
One of the major concern for new homeschooling family is lack of social aspect that traditional school may bring. It is also keeps from potential people from trying out homeschooling. However, homeschoolers get plenty social time with other children and adults when they have field trip, park days and classes being taken at vendor's or at co-op. Sometimes, there are also sports, scouts and other social aspects that any other traditional school going kids do plus more. Kids can be part of soccer team, pen pal, art camps, piano and other music gathering along with educational part of school that will be sure to give plenty of social time to talk, learn and play together.
Many homeschooler kids do well with kids their own age along with adult conversation as they are part of mixed ages social gathering just like in real life.
5. Why people choose to homeschool?
Why would anyone want to homeschool when there are free public school available? Many parents or kids choose to homeschool for following reasons;
- Your child can learn things he or she is interested at his or her pace.
- If your child is gifted and ahead of learning, he or she might get bored learning things he or she already knows.
- If your child is behind in learning, he or she might be confused and feels frustrated as he or she may not understand concept being taught.
- If you child has a special need, traditional school teacher or kids may not be able to give right kind of attention he or she may need.
- Special need kids or gifted classes can be expensive, tough to find for some parents.
- If you child needs a special attention in some subject, traditional schooling may not be able to provide with large student to teacher ratio.
- With homeschooling, kids get to learn things they are interested while keeping up with what is required by law to study basic skills.
- Some parents like homeschooling as it strengthen the family bond between them and siblings.
- Learning can be part of real world for example, learning colors and shapes while doing grocery fruit shopping for early learning, learning math while paying money to cashier and so on.
- Flexibility to choose subjects and time. For example, if you child loves animals, he or she can spend 2 hours on animal science while visiting a petting zoo or watching birds, you are not bound by bell of class to stop when child is interested in more learning.
6. What to watch out for in Homeschooling?
Homeschooling is not easy way out, it requires proper planning and discipline to doing school work while living daily life of chores and other necessary things. Here are some of the things to consider when choosing to homeschool.
- One parent might have to give up income to stay home to teach kids. Loss of income can be huge deal for many families.
- If you are single parent, you can still do homeschooling while working part time or making other adjustment but it can be tough.
- Loss of private time; If you have small kids you will know this already, parents do not get much personal time to do things they enjoy. If you homeschool that means your kids and you will be mostly together, unless they are in some private class, so lack of time is something to think about.
- Sometimes, parents may not think they can teach their kids or have enough knowledge. That can bring issues to teaching.
- There is not much information and acceptance about homeschooling in world, specially some areas so one may feel isolated, and criticized about their choices. There are legal entity that supports homeschooling parents such as HSLDA.
- Convincing your spouse, friend or loved ones might be tough for some parent who wish to try homeschooling.
- You will still have to do all required learning by your state and you will have to keep records like school for your own record.
- House chores such as cooking, cleaning and doing other necessary things will have be planned with school class activities.
7. How much homeschooling costs?
Homeschooling can cost little to thousands of dollars per semester, it depends on how you teach and what resources you can use. Homeschooling does not have to be expensive though. There are free resources available to all tax payers regardless they choose public school or private, you can use them; They are public library for learning materials, educational videos, reading, phonics programs, free museum days, pbs children and educational shows, internet, you tube sites.
There are some costs for taking classes, buying boxed curriculum, paid field trip, sports, piano/music classes, art classes and so on. Some of the expense people have to do it, even for free public school. You can minimize the expenses by buying used curriculum, buying what you need and reusing them with other children and selling them once you are done to keep cost at reasonable budget.
8. If my Child is homeschooled, can he be qualified for good college later on?
This is one of the major concerned for any new potential homeschooler and it is valid question. To answer it in short term: Yes, your child will be able to go to good college or even IVY league college even if he or she is homeschooled. Matter of fact, some of the best college actually seek out homeschooler kids to recruit fot their college. According to stats, homeschooler kids tend to have higher ACT scores compared to traditional school counter parts, which helps. Universities like Stanford and Purdue have homeschoolers kids in engineering, sport scholarship as well. So, there are good chance for your homeschooler for admission in college and university to be admitted.
9. If my child is homeschooled, will he or she be able to fit in normal society?
While it is true, homeshcooling done in smaller group class or at home, many homeschooler do not have practice raising hand to ask question or stand in lines, in most cases homeschoolers fit in very well in society as well or sometimes better compared to other kids. How so you ask? Well, if you see in traditional school class, kids are approximately same age, (plus or minus 6 months), so kids in school do not get much practice to converse with other ages of kids or adults. How many time you work as an adult in office where you see people same age as you? Hardly never, so when you actually homeschool, one tends to be around, younger kids to older adults, just like in real life situation at life and in office, kids tend to be better prepared to handle world in most cases.
Traditional school has other issues such as bullying, guns and violence which is much less when one is homeschooling or one parent is there to intervene right away; At school, there are good teachers who look after kid's benefit but typical high 20-40 students to 1 teacher ratio does not make it easy for them to watch all of them.
10. What if I am out of US and Canada, can I still homeschool?
Homeschooling has its roots in America and it is legal in all 50 states and Canada, other countries have followed the suit and many countries have small to big homeschooling community. You may want to search on net for your local area homeschooling program to be sure to find support community. You may want to look at look in our resource area as we are in process of updating and adding details that can be helpful to homeshcooler no matter where they live.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Famous Homeschoolers
Here are some of the famous Homeschoolers You May know of:
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.Famous Homeschool Parents
- Will Smith - singer, actor
- · Michael Card - singer, songwriter
- · Mike Farris - lawyer and co-founder of Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA)
- · Robert Frost - Pulitzer Prize-winning poet
- · Christopher Klicka - attorney and Senior Counsel of Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA)
- · Len Munsil - attorney and President of The Center for Arizona Policy (CAP)
- · Paul Overstreet - musician, songwriter
- · Kelly Preston - actress, wife of John Travolta
- · Mike Smith - lawyer and co-founder of Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA)
- · John Travolta - actor, pilot
- · Lisa Whelchel - former actress, "The Facts of Life", now a pastor's wife and author
- · Darrell Waltrip - NASCAR Racer
Performing Artists
- · Louis Armstrong - king of jazz
- · Charlie Chaplin - actor
- · Whoopi Goldberg - actress
- · Hanson - sibling singing group
- · Jennifer Love Hewitt - actress
- · Yehudi Menuhin - child prodigy violinist
- · Moffatts - Canadian version of Hanson
- · Frankie Muniz - child actor
- · LeAnne Rimes - teen-prodigy country music singer
- · Barlow Girl - Alyssa, Rebecca, and Lauren Contemporary Christian Music
- · Jonas Brothers - Kevin, Joe, and Nick Performers
- · Jacob Clemente - Broadway Actor
Scientists
- · George Washington Carver
- · Pierre Curie
- · Albert Einstein
- · Michael Faraday - electrochemist
- · Oliver Heaviside - physicist and electromagnetism researcher
- · T.H. Huxley
- · Blaise Pascal
- · Booker T. Washington
- · Erik Demaine - Popular Science Magazine
Inventors
- · Alexander Graham Bell - invented the telephone
- · John Moses Browning - firearms inventor and designer
- · Peter Cooper - invented skyscraper, built first U.S. commercial locomotive
- · Thomas Edison - invented the stock ticker, mimeograph, phonograph, and perfected the electric light bulb
- · Benjamin Franklin - invented the lightning rod
- · Elias Howe - invented sewing machine
- · William Lear - airplane creator
- · Cyrus McCormick - invented grain reaper
- · Guglielmo Marconi - developed radio
- · Eli Whitney - invented the cotton gin
- · Sir Frank Whittle - invented turbo jet engine
- · Orville and Wilbur Wright - built the first successful airplane
Famous Writers
- · Hans Christian Anderson
- · Margaret Atwood
- · Pearl S. Buck
- · William F. Buckley, Jr.
- · Willa Cather
- · Agatha Christie
- · Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain)
- · Charles Dickens
- · Robert Frost - Pulitzer Prize-winning poet
- · Charlotte Perkins Gilman
- · Alex Haley
- · Brett Harte
- · L. Ron Hubbard
- · C.S. Lewis
- · Amy Lowell
- · Gabriela Mistral
- · Sean O'Casey
- · Christopher Paolini - author of #1 NY Times bestseller, Eragon
- · Isabel Paterson
- · Beatrix Potter - author of the beloved Peter Rabbit Tales
- · Carl Sandburg
- · George Bernard Shaw
- · Mattie J. T. Stepanek - 11-year-old author of Heartsongs
- · Mercy Warren
- · Phillis Wheatley
- · Walt Whitman
- · Laura Ingalls Wilder
Business Entrepreneurs
- · Andrew Carnegie - wealthy steel industrialist
- · Amadeo Giannini - Bank of America’s founder
- · Horace Greeley - New York Tribune founder
- · Soichiro Honda - creator of the Honda automobile company
- · Peter Kindersley - book illustrator and publisher
- · Ray Kroc - founder of McDonald's fast food restaurant chain
- · Jimmy Lai - newspaper publisher; founder of Giordano International
- · Dr. Orison Swett Marden - founder, Success magazine
- · Adolph Ochs - New York Times founder
- · Joseph Pulitzer - newspaper publisher; established Pulitzer Prize
- · Colonel Harland Sanders - started Kentucky Fried Chicken
- · Dave Thomas - founder of the Wendy’s restaurant chain
- · Mariah Witcher - founder of Mariahs Famous Cookies
- · Daniel Mills - founder of Salem Ridge Press
Famous Homeschooler Video
Ten Tips Before you Start to Homeschool: Is Homeschooling is Right ForYou?
Choosing to homeschool or not is very often difficult for many. It is very personal choice and individual decision that only you can only make. To help you make the right choice, you may want to go through these top ten things to see if that right for you and your family.
Homeschooling is legal in USA and in many other countries. Find out your local legal laws, join homeschooling group, talk to others who might be homeschooling to gather an idea before you start. Even if your child is going to regular or private school, extra teaching and learning from parents always helps child excel more.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
Is Homeschooling Right choice for you and your child?
- Make sure you know the Time Commitment: Homeschooling sure takes up lot of time, it is not simple as sending off kids to school. Kids will need to do reading, science projects, field trips, lessons you need to prepare while doing house related tasks. While there are no typical school day schedule for many homeschooler, day can be filled with many things to do. So, make sure you have right set of mind when you get in to it.
- Planning is required: As homeschooling parents and kids will be spending lot of time together, doing many school and house related work, planning is required. Without plan and organization, life can be chaos and lot of things will be left undone and it will create resentment for homeschooling.
- One Income household: Homeschooling can be expensive or relatively inexpensive, however, usually one of the parent usually need to stay home to teach kids, so there is a loss of income. It could be tough on some families to move from two income household to one income household.
- Socialization with Other Kids : Many of us think that homeschooling means no socialization time with other kids, it is not so true. Kids can participate in homeschool field trip, sport outing, girls scout and boys scout activities and much more. The beauty of homeschooling is being able to have more control of the social contacts your child makes. Homeschool Coop classes are can be good for socialization for kids and parents alike.
- Household Planning: Housework, cooking and laundry still have to be done, but it probably won't get done first thing in the morning or it needs to be planned and organized in order for it to be done. If a stickler for a spotless house, you might be in for a surprise or shock. Sometimes housework can be part of daily chores between learning.
- Both parents Says Yes : It is important that both parents agree to try homeschooling otherwise it can be complicated further with daily issues and resentments. It is very difficult to homeschool if one parent is against it. If your spouse is against it at this time, try doing more research and talking to more people until both of you come to an agreement.
- Your Child's Readiness: A willing student to homeschool idea is always helpful. Ultimately, the decision is the parents to make, but if your child is dead against it, you might have a hard time of it, unless you both come to a compromise to try it for a short time to see if there might be doable.
- One Step at Time: If you think once you made a decision, it isn't a lifetime commitment - most families take one year at a time. Take one day at the time to see how it works for you and your child and tweak and modify as you go along to fit your learning and life style.
- No need for Intimidatation: Homeschooling teaching is not hard, if you can read and write, you should be able to teach your children. The curriculum and teacher materials will help through the planning and teaching. Get help from others if you get stuck or hire tutors for the difficult subjects. In most private schools, teacher follow teacher guideline to teach and you can do the same.
- Why Do You want to Homeschool?: Many people homeschool or use private schooling based on their instict or personal choice. You may also want to think about why you thought about homeschooling in first place. It might be helpful to hear why other families chose homeschooling. It may give you reinforcement needed to get started or choose another path.
Homeschooling is legal in USA and in many other countries. Find out your local legal laws, join homeschooling group, talk to others who might be homeschooling to gather an idea before you start. Even if your child is going to regular or private school, extra teaching and learning from parents always helps child excel more.
You can check out homeschooling tips and how to start homeschooling and homeschooling curriculum ideas.
Homeschool Resource Books to Help:
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