It's not what you think...
We made this decision based on a few ideas. Our family wanted more time together, we wanted to ensure WE (as the parents) are instilling the values and morals we encourage as a family, and the freedom to move at our own pace has proven to be worth the lifestyle. Homeschooling has become more popular in recent years for a variety of reasons. One reason is the flexibility it provides for families, as they can create a curriculum and schedule that works best for their individual needs. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to many schools shutting down or transitioning to online learning, which has prompted some families to explore homeschooling as an alternative. Other families may have concerns about the socialization and safety of their children in traditional schools and choose to homeschool as a way to provide a more controlled and personalized learning environment. Additionally, some families may prefer a homeschooling approach due to religious or philosophical reasons. So if we're being honest, is there even such things as a "weird homeschooled kid" anymore? I swear 1 out of every 5 or 6 people I meet homeschool here in NC and I am truly thankful for this growing community.
Here are a few things to think about when pondering this idea of homeschooling:
Create a schedule: Having a schedule for the day can help keep you and your child on track and ensure that all of the necessary subjects are covered.
Set clear goals: Decide what you want your child to achieve by the end of the homeschooling experience and work towards those goals.
Make use of online resources: There are many websites, apps, and online tutorials that can be helpful for both you and your child.
Create a learning environment: Create a space in your home that is dedicated to learning, free from distractions.
Be flexible: Homeschooling can be challenging at times, so be prepared to adjust your plans and be open to new ideas. Allow space for those days that getting to the table just seems so difficult and maybe head to the park instead.
Keep a record: Keep records of your child's progress and achievements to help you evaluate their progress and identify areas where they need more help.
Communicate with other homeschooling families: Joining a homeschooling group or network can provide support, resources, and a sense of community.
Get outside: Regular breaks and physical activity are important for both you and your child, so make sure to incorporate outdoor time into your schedule.
Have fun: Homeschooling can be a great experience for both you and your child, so enjoy it and make it fun.
So, in my whole year and a half of experience, would I do it again? Absolutely! We're adding the boy in the mix this Fall and I can't wait! Sure running multiple businesses is a little tricky but this life we are building for our family is such a treasure. We have dreamed about cross-country road trips and missions overseas... as a whole family! I understand every kid is different and has different needs, but in our exact situation, I am feeling truly blessed and want to share with my corner of the world how incredible this lifestyle can be.
Feel free to reach out if you have questions!
Kaley
We are currently using curriculum from: Good and the Beautiful and Gather Round. We watch youtube videos on whatever these kids have questions about, we listen to nature and science podcasts, we read a ton of fun books, we go to parks, we are a part of two co-ops, and regularly meet up with groups of homeschooled friends.
Fun things to keep in mind are to always have "rainy day options" like something different and exciting to be experienced sparingly. Here are a few go-to's:
- This watercolor thing (Click here) is perfect to keep in the car for streamside fishing or the family brewery date night.
- I am old school when it comes to writing things down. This simple planner (Right here) allows me to scribble off what needs to get done.
- A solid bookshelf that makes the space easier on the eyes (This one is super cute)
- We shift our "school space" to wherever it makes the most sense for the season we're in. Having a cart like (this) has proven to be really handy!
I have a lot to learn but I am confident that this is my highest calling this season. To teach our babies who they are and how to responsibly teach them about the world around them. I am so excited for what's to come!