In the face of current world events, homeschooling has become a consideration for many families. Whether you find yourself contemplating this educational journey or you're a seasoned homeschooler, this blog post aims to provide insights and guidance, drawing from my 22 years of homeschooling experience.
Homeschooling is not merely an educational choice; it's a lifestyle. Just as every day of parenting is unique, homeschooling brings with it a 24/7 commitment. It involves facing challenges, celebrating achievements, and, most importantly, fostering a deep connection with your children.
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As a homeschool mom, you may encounter moments of doubt, questioning if you're doing the parenting thing right. Homeschooling brings these feelings to the surface often because the two are intertwined.
Homeschooling afforded me the precious gift of time – 18 years to nurture and shape my children. By embracing this lifestyle, I could impart not only academic knowledge but also essential life skills and values. Homeschooling is an investment in the developing the complete child.
Homeschooling provides a unique opportunity to intertwine faith and education. As a homeschool mom, my journey involved constant reliance on God for wisdom, strength, and guidance. It was through this lifestyle that I grew in my walk with God, supported by the ever-watchful eyes and ears of my children.
Homeschooling is about living, interacting, and learning through life's experiences. It provides an opportunity for your family to grow together, navigating challenges, conflicts, and frustrations as they arise. It's important to understand that homeschooling is not public school at home – it's a dynamic and personalized approach to living and learning together. Don't try to replicate a traditional school environment at home.
While academics are crucial, homeschooling emphasizes the importance of shaping well-rounded individuals. The goal is not only to raise excellent scientists or mathematicians but also compassionate spouses, parents, friends, and employees. Homeschooling is a journey of mutual learning and growth. I learned alongside my children.
Understanding that each family is unique, a typical homeschool day may look different for everyone. From waking up without a set start time to incorporating breaks and focusing on essential subjects like reading, writing, and arithmetic, flexibility is the key.
As your teen matures, so does your homeschooling approach. Encourage independent learning. Your teen might need assistance with math, language arts and science. Spend that needed time to ensure that they are learning.
By the junior and senior year of high school, my children were working independently, taking college-level courses, and gaining concurrent enrollment credits.
I often incorporated subjects like Bible, Art, Music, and P.E. which lend themselves to being taught to multiple ages, into the school day during a time we could all learn together, making the job of teacher much easier for mom.
Homeschooling allows for flexibility in the learning environment. Allow them to find the area in your home where learning works best for them. Whether it's at the kitchen table, in the family room, or even during a car ride, education can happen anywhere you or they choose.
Homeschooling provides the flexibility to balance academics and extracurricular activities seamlessly. Embrace a slower-paced life, allowing time for play, (yes even for teens), outdoor activities, meaningful conversations, and life lessons.
Homeschooling is a lifestyle that goes beyond academics. It's a journey of continuous learning, growth, and connection with your children. Remember, your family is unique, and there's no need to replicate the choices of others. Embrace the gift of time, enjoy a slower life, and savor the moments of pride as you witness your children's accomplishments. Whether you're considering homeschooling or have been on this journey for years, the beauty of homeschooling lies in the shared experiences that shape both parents and children alike.
Are you needing specifics when it comes to homeschooling a teen?
Check out these blog posts:
Concurrent Enrollment and your Teen
Preparing Your Teen for College Entrance Exams
Grades Credits and Transcripts
Happy homeschooling!
Enjoying the journey,
Michelle
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