Some Practical Advice for New Homeschoolers
To the new Homeschooler it may seem quite overwhelming at first. There are so many questions going through your head. Where do I get curriculum, what curriculum should I use, can I really do this, and of course what about socialization? Let me put your mind at ease. It is not as difficult as it looks.
Relax and have fun. you are doing this to enjoy your children and learn together. Think about this - in school one teacher spends 6-7 hours with 20 children. This is equivalent to one on one tutoring for 1-2 hours a day. Your children will learn a lot better in a relaxed atmosphere.
One of the first things you should think about is talking to people you know who already homeschool. They can give you a world of advice. If you don't know any homeschoolers then try to find a homeschool support group in your area. You may find listings from the state homeschool web site on our resource page. Many churches also have support groups in them. Check around.
Next you should find out about the homeschooling laws in your state. Different states require different things.
Choosing Curriculum
Trying to choose which curriculum to use may seem like a monumental task, but it doesn't have to be. This is a great time to get input from other homeschoolers. There are a few things to consider when choosing curriculum. You might choose to use one of the major homeschool curriculum suppliers and buy complete curriculums all at once. Or you might choose the unit study approach that teaches all subjects from one central theme, such as learning about the solar system and teaching math, English, history, etc. while teaching that theme. Choose whatever works best for you and your children. And don't worry, you can always modify it for your family.
When you choose a type of curriculum, try to find one that fits your child's learning style. On our Resource Page there is a link to help you discover your child's learning style.
There are Five basic curriculum types: Textbooks Workbooks Unit Studies - learning all disciplines while studying one area Eclectic - mix & match Unschooling - unstructured learning through living
We invite you to come by our store in Watauga, Texas, where experienced homeschool mom's are available to sit and help you in this area.
What About Socialization?
Forget about it! The whole point is to carefully choose their social interaction. Socialization does indeed affect your children. Choose wisely those influences you want in their lives. The truth is, your children will get plenty of socialization from the neighborhood kids, church groups, and other outside activities. Concentrate on your family learning together and having fun!
Areas of Learning:
Here is a general list of areas of learning that you want to incorporate into your homeschool. Many of these things can be taught not only through materials but just in daily life. Homeschooling is a learning lifestyle not just an activity. Learn to incorporate learning into your daily life while you're walking, driving in the car, making dinner. Use reports, letters, and games to enhance learning.
Math - (adding in the grocery store, measuring making meals, etc.)
Social Studies - (our government, map skills, geography [vacations], where do I live, other cultures)
Science - (learning about plants, animals, how things work and why)
Bible - (character studies, bible reading, devotions)
History - (where did I come from, countries, cities, creation, their Maker)
Arts - (drawing, painting, music, dance, drama)
English - (writing, grammar, spelling, speaking, penmanship, reading)
Social Skills - (interacting with adults, manners, unselfishness
Physical Education - (play, sports, games)
Make life a learning experience! And don't forget that cleaning time is learning time also. Make it part of your school day. It teaches your children discipline, organization, home economics, and character.
Would you like to know what your child needs to learn in each grade? World Book Encyclopedia has a great online listing for each grade level. Visit their Typical Course of Study page and choose your grade level.
Find And Use Resources. There are several Homeschool Conventions held around the State. They always have speakers talking on a variety of interesting and helpful topics. Check with your local homeschool group as to when the next convention is.
Visit the State Homeschool web page. They offer information about state laws and support groups for your state, a list of useful web sites, commonly asked questions and much more.
Use online resources such as ours. You can research any topic and find great information online.
Involve your husband. Let him add his knowledge on evenings and weekends.
Use your local library. Become a regular.
Special classes are available at rec. centers, YMCA's, local colleges, and homeschool groups.
Curriculum sales are a great way to find excellent materials as well as find out what people think of them. You can usually find out about sales in your area from local homeschool groups.
Above all, you've got to have fun. There will be times when you will feel frustrated and under stress, but don't worry. Be adaptable. Remember, homeschooling should be learning at home, not taking school into your home. Relax and enjoy, and if you have questions we might be able to answer, please e-mail us.
Vital Links for all new Homeschoolers: