An American family living, travelling and homeschooling abroad sharing their experiences.
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
What kind of home school approach do you follow?
That seems to be a very popular question! When I started homeschooling Buttercup, I was kind of thrown into it suddenly. I didn't have much time to research the different approaches to homeschooling. To be honest, I didn't know there were so many approaches to homeschooling. In my ignorant bliss, I just assumed people put together their own materials and study programs. Now, a whole school year later, I know that's not the case.
But that is how I did it, as a teacher myself, I already had knowledge and experience enough to come up with a program. But whenever I am asked what is our home school approach, I don't have an answer.
Well, I recently read an article on www.homeschool-curriculum.org that finally clarified all of the different approaches for me. The explanations are clear and concise; it also includes why some parents choose each approach.
Finally, I have an answer to stranger's questions....but why do I care what they think? Actually, I don't. It was more for me. And the answer is I don't really follow any approach. I do what feels right for me and my child. She gets to have a say in most of what she learns. I determine what are "the must haves". Buttercup gets plenty of free time to explore the great outdoors, museums, parks and other activities. We try to do as much hands on stuff as we can. I don't have textbooks, but I like the idea of keeping in line with our state guidelines.
Anyway, if you are starting on your own homeschooling journey, this website will be very helpful. I recommend reading the different approaches and trying them to see what works for your family.
Here's the link:
www.homeschool-curriculum.org
Also here are some other posts that might interest you.
5 Reasons I Home School
How I made the decision to home school p1
How I made the decision to home school p2
We are in our second year of homeschooling. I always figured we would be eclectic...I think there is something interesting about everything from Classical to Waldorf. We change things around all the time depending on our needs, the subject and how we feel at the time.
ReplyDeleteI am in NJ too...I live in Middlesex County. If you don't mind me asking, where are you in NJ? You can always email me at: redoaklane1@gmail.com
I have two girls, too and we are always interested in meeting new homeschool friends :)
Thanks for the comment. It'd be great to meet other homeschoolers. I'll email you.
ReplyDelete