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Kick Off Your Homeschool Year

Beginning Homeschooling in Middle School – 3 Questions Worth Asking

October 1, 2023 | 2 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Beginning homeschooling in middle school can be challenging for many reasons. I’m sharing three questions worth asking and answers. Also, look at my page homeschool middle school for more fun tips.

Having helped new homeschoolers on both ends of the learning spectrum from those struggling in public school to those not being challenged, beginning homeschooling in middle school can be demanding.

Across the board tips can help when beginning homeschooling in middle school because a lot of pressure is put on the teaching parent to perform.

Beginning Homeschooling in Middle School – 3 Questions Worth Asking

3 Questions to Ask When You Start Your Homeschool Journey in Middle School

First, look at some of these resources to help you.

5 BEST How to Homeschool Books

I've rounded up some of the best books to help you get started homeschooling.

Homeschooling for New Homeschoolers: When You Don't Know Where to Begin

Homeschooling 31 Day Boot Camp for New Homeschoolers is a real eye-opener on homeschooling. It will alleviate a lot of the anxieties about getting started homeschooling. Reading each chapter’s highlights will give you encouragement, knowledge, guidance, and peace of mind to homeschool with confidence. The best part is that you’ll be educating the person who loves your kids the most in this world--YOU! Armed with the knowledge to make better choices in curriculum will empower you to continue the path of home education. Unlike many books based on one family’s experience, Homeschooling 31 Day Boot Camp for New Homeschoolers is also based on Tina’s many years of mentoring hundreds and hundreds of new homeschoolers at live workshops. When you don’t know where to begin Homeschooling 31 Day Boot Camp for New Homeschoolers equips you to successfully homeschool your children.

The Unhurried Homeschooler

Homeschooling is a wonderful, worthwhile pursuit, but many homeschool parents struggle with feelings of burnout and frustration. If you have ever felt this way, you’re not alone! Most of us need to be reminded of the “why” of homeschooling from time to time—but "The Unhurried homeschooler" takes parents a step further and lifts the unnecessary burdens that many parents place on themselves.

Teaching from Rest: A Homeschooler's Guide to Unshakable Peace

Those who have made the decision to homeschool their children have done so out of great love for their children and a desire to provide them an excellent education in the context of a warm, enriching home.

The Brave Learner: Finding Everyday Magic in Homeschool, Learning, and Life

Parents who are deeply invested in their children's education can be hard on themselves and their kids. When exhausted parents are living the day-to-day grind, it can seem impossible to muster enough energy to make learning fun or interesting. How do parents nurture a love of learning amid childhood chaos, parental self-doubt, the flu, and state academic standards?

Unschooled: Raising Curious, Well-Educated Children Outside the Conventional Classroom

Education has become synonymous with schooling, but it doesn’t have to be. As schooling becomes increasingly standardized and test driven, occupying more of childhood than ever before, parents and educators are questioning the role of schooling in society. Many are now exploring and creating alternatives.

Look at these questions and practical tips that help to start your year on a positive note.

1.
Do You Really Want To Only Experiment With Homeschooling?

Fear can cause a paralyzing effect on a positive mind-set.

Whether your child was overlooked in middle school and getting more behind by the day or if your child was making above average grades and you felt like he wasn’t being challenged, none of that is going to go away anytime soon.

Instead of focusing on the fear that you might mess your child up for life, jump into homeschooling with all the bravado that your child deserves.

Beginning Homeschooling in Middle School - 3 Questions Worth Asking @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus

Middle school is half-way between childhood and adulthood.

Though you can’t do anything about the past, you can change their future and prepare them for adulthood.

It takes devotion to read about how to homeschool.

And to make curriculum choices, to fill in any gaps you find along the way and look ahead to high school.

Instead of homeschooling by looking back at public school, give all the time and energy you have to keep moving forward.

Why would you want to return to something that is not working?

Keep your new goal bright and burning because it will spur you ahead to adopt a relaxed homeschooling spirit.

2.
Is It Really Necessary To Teach All The Subjects Yourself?

Encouraging you to jump head long into homeschooling doesn’t mean you have to jump right into teaching every subject.

Being in public school for a while, it takes time for a child to develop a teacher and student relationship with you now.

It is an understatement to say that it can be quite challenging.

I have seen children who outright resent the teaching of a parent.

On the other hand, some children thrive right away when a parent takes control of the teaching.

Beginning Homeschooling in Middle School – 3 Questions Worth Asking

Whatever the case is, ease the new teacher student relationship by appreciating the fact that they have been learning independent of you for a while.

More Homeschooling in Middle School Resources

  • How to Successfully Homeschool Middle School
  • A to Z List: Middle and High School Homeschool Electives
  • Fun Winter Craft Ideas for Middle School Homeschool
  • 10 Best Science Movies for Middle School
  • Which One is Really the Best Homeschool Writing Curriculum (a comparison)
  • How to Choose the BEST Homeschool Middle and High School Language Arts Curriculum & Options
  • Free Middle School Science Curriculum and Magazines

Though you may want to right all the wrongs of public school immediately but taking full control, I find it is better to build the relationship first.

It takes energy to foster the time you now have with your middleschooler and to renew your relationship.

Divide up your subjects into ones that you teach with your child and subjects that give him some breathing room that he can do independently.

For example, choose a subject that he needs help with right now.

This eases his stress with this transition by doing the subject on a one-to-one basis which he is struggling with the most.

He may not value it it now, but he will appreciate your support with a subject he is struggling in

Then, give him some breathing room by allowing him to do part of his subjects through an online or an interactive class.  

Look at my post Digital Homeschool Curriculum – Big Ol’ List for some more ideas.

Not only will this tip keep your day varied, but it allows you time to get familiar with teaching without getting overwhelmed.

3.
How Many Extra-Curricular Activities Does Your Child Really Need?

I made the same mistake though my child was only in kindergarten which was thinking I had to join every activity that was offered.

Afraid that my child would not be socialized and well rounded, I just knew that I had to keep the roads hot as we traveled back and forth for homeschooling activities.

Though homeschooling activities are a vital part of homeschooling, the timing is not always right each year.

Homeschool activities can be a tool for enrichment or an offensive break in the day depending on the needs of your family at the present moment.

Weigh each homeschooling activity carefully because your child has not been with you for a good part of the day up until this point.

Deepening and strengthening your parental bond with your precious child is the most important thing you want to accomplish this year.

I know you have curriculum worries, socialization worries and high school may be looming overhead.

However, in homeschooling you can advance quickly to accomplish those things.

I have many blog posts here that will help you sail through your concerns.

Relationships are different.  Unlike learning about homeschooling, there are no short cuts.  It takes time to water, nurture and rekindle any strained relationship.

As your child matures, graduates, and leaves your home, you will eventually stop homeschooling him.

However, your relationship will not stop growing.  

Too, he will remember fondly your love for learning and he will be infused with that passion.

It is possible to have it all even when you begin homeschooling in middle school.  The beginning is what matters.

Are you beginning to homeschool with a middle schooler?

 

2 CommentsFiled Under: Kick Off Your Homeschool Year, Middle School Homeschool Tagged With: middle school, middleschool

5 Ideas to Kick-Start Your New Homeschool Year By Including Others

July 24, 2023 | 5 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

You’ll love these 6 ideas to kick start your new homeschool year. Also, you’ll love How to Plan Your First Homeschool Year When You Don’t Know How To Start.

I value traditions when it comes to kicking off our year.

Plenty of photos and quirky poses at the beginning of our new school year are a must in my home.

However, the boys have enjoyed our year more when we included others and socialize (gasp ..can you believe we do).

5 Ideas to Kick-Start Your New Homeschool Year By Including Others

Sure, I have made special breakfasts and bought new homeschool supplies which I love.

But there is something about being with other homeschoolers as we start off our year that keeps us stoked the whole year.

5 Ideas to Kick-Start Your New Homeschool Year By Including Others @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus

The feeling of excitement is contagious when the kids see each other again.

Not only does it excite our kids, but as moms we enjoy the camaraderie also.

Too, maybe it’s the feeling that you know you are not alone as so many others have decided that not only are we doing this another year, but this is our way of life.

5 Ways to Include Other Homeschoolers in Your New Homeschool Year

It’s the warm feeling of security deep down knowing I won’t have to kiss my sons good-bye and send them off.

Maybe it’s the mother in me and not the teacher when we start our school year, but it gets harder to separate the two each year.

1. Start the Year At the Museum

From a simple idea of starting our year off with others at a museum when the children were little to including way more homeschoolers, we have always preferred being with others to celebrate.

5 Ideas to Kick-Start Your New Homeschool Year By Including Others

Also, you’ll love some of these books.

5 BEST How to Homeschool Books

I've rounded up some of the best books to help you get started homeschooling.

Homeschooling for New Homeschoolers: When You Don't Know Where to Begin

Homeschooling 31 Day Boot Camp for New Homeschoolers is a real eye-opener on homeschooling. It will alleviate a lot of the anxieties about getting started homeschooling. Reading each chapter’s highlights will give you encouragement, knowledge, guidance, and peace of mind to homeschool with confidence. The best part is that you’ll be educating the person who loves your kids the most in this world--YOU! Armed with the knowledge to make better choices in curriculum will empower you to continue the path of home education. Unlike many books based on one family’s experience, Homeschooling 31 Day Boot Camp for New Homeschoolers is also based on Tina’s many years of mentoring hundreds and hundreds of new homeschoolers at live workshops. When you don’t know where to begin Homeschooling 31 Day Boot Camp for New Homeschoolers equips you to successfully homeschool your children.

The Unhurried Homeschooler

Homeschooling is a wonderful, worthwhile pursuit, but many homeschool parents struggle with feelings of burnout and frustration. If you have ever felt this way, you’re not alone! Most of us need to be reminded of the “why” of homeschooling from time to time—but "The Unhurried homeschooler" takes parents a step further and lifts the unnecessary burdens that many parents place on themselves.

Teaching from Rest: A Homeschooler's Guide to Unshakable Peace

Those who have made the decision to homeschool their children have done so out of great love for their children and a desire to provide them an excellent education in the context of a warm, enriching home.

The Brave Learner: Finding Everyday Magic in Homeschool, Learning, and Life

Parents who are deeply invested in their children's education can be hard on themselves and their kids. When exhausted parents are living the day-to-day grind, it can seem impossible to muster enough energy to make learning fun or interesting. How do parents nurture a love of learning amid childhood chaos, parental self-doubt, the flu, and state academic standards?

Unschooled: Raising Curious, Well-Educated Children Outside the Conventional Classroom

Education has become synonymous with schooling, but it doesn’t have to be. As schooling becomes increasingly standardized and test driven, occupying more of childhood than ever before, parents and educators are questioning the role of schooling in society. Many are now exploring and creating alternatives.

2. Start the new homeschool year with a fun group dance.

Then years later, we had a true Texas hoedown and started off our school year a few years back by square dancing.

We pulled out all the stops, kicked up our heels and had Texas Bar B Q (or you could have Memphis style Bar B Q or Kansas style Bar B Q, or …..okay okay) complete with all the trimmings.

5 Ideas to Kick-Start Your New Homeschool Year By Including Others

5 Ideas to Kick-Start Your New Homeschool Year By Including Others

There was no shortage of great food and great cooks among our homeschool moms which I find is the case in many events I have hosted. I love the generosity.

Include Other Homeschoolers in Your New Homeschool Year

5 Ideas to Kick-Start Your New Homeschool Year By Including Others

We hired a “true” caller and his “gang” to teach us how to square dance and this is what we “learned” on our 1st day of school.

5 Ideas to Kick-Start Your New Homeschool Year By Including Others

We invited the whole family, grandma and grandpa to celebrate the start of our new year with us. Kelley, Cynthia and I coordinated one of our most memorable back to school parties with our group.

Pssssst……..this is a good way to include those in your circle of family and friends that may not be up on your decision to homeschool. Include them in your fun at the beginning of the year.

5 Ideas to Kick-Start Your New Homeschool Year By Including Others

That way you really set the standard for how your year will start and then they will know right from the beginning you are a rebel…..tee hee hee

3. Head to the skating rink for a fun cold indoor activity.

Actually, according to the kids it was a tossup between the square dancing one year and ice skating in August another year.

5 Ideas to Kick-Start Your New Homeschool Year By Including Others

See if you can rent the ice skating rink just for your back to school party and ask for a more reduced rate even if they don’t advertise.

Remember, most businesses welcome customers in the morning or early afternoon when public school is back in session and their business is slower.

5 Ideas to Kick-Start Your New Homeschool Year By Including Others

{Tiny ambushed one of our Seniors that year.}

Of course playing in the snow in August outside was the icing on the day for us that year!

4. Let someone else teach the first day. So memorable.

Rendezvous at the Reef was another big hit with the group. Start off the new year by somebody else teaching a class and learning about the ocean.

From Public School to Homeschool For a Relaxed Lifestyle

  • Transitioning from Public School to Homeschool For a Relaxed Lifestyle
  • How to Cope Successfully With Homeschool Mental Stress
  • How to Begin Homeschooling A Teen Lagging Behind
  • How Early Should I Begin Homeschooling My First Child & Free Checklist
  • 5 Ideas to Kick-Start Your New Homeschool Year By Including Others

We headed to Galveston, which is by the coast/ocean to have a class about ocean life and life at the reef.

5 Ideas to Kick-Start Your New Homeschool Year By Including Others

5 Ideas to Kick-Start Your New Homeschool Year By Including Others

My kind of instructor who includes hands-on things for both older and younger children to hold and learn about as she teaches.

5 Ideas to Kick-Start Your New Homeschool Year By Including Others

Things like watching the penguins being fed and watching all the sea life and not in our home class room gets us so excited about the new year.

5. Host a Not Back to School Geography Quest.

The Not Back to School Geography Quest was also another big hit with our group.

5 Ideas to Kick-Start Your New Homeschool Year By Including Others

We had hands on items from the country the kids chose, experiments to watch and even tasted some food from other countries.

5 Ideas to Kick-Start Your New Homeschool Year By Including Others

5 Ideas to Kick-Start Your New Homeschool Year By Including Others

One of the moms getting ready to serve home made salsa after the kids presented information on Mexico.

More Tips for the New Homeschool Year

  • Grab my book Homeschooling 31 Day Boot Camp for New Homeschoolers: When You Don’t Know Where to Begin.
  • Get Organized – Rev Up for the New Homeschool Year
  • It’s a New Homeschool Year and My Child Wants to Go Back to Public School
  • Top 10 Tips To Getting a New Homeschool Year Rolling
  • How to Plan Your First Homeschool Year When You Don’t Know How To Start
  • Start the Homeschool Year Off Right: 5 History Ideas for the First Week
  • 7 Advantages to Starting Your Homeschool Year in the Summer
  • 4 Benefits to Planning Early for the Next Homeschool Year
  • Free Pre-Homeschool Year Planning Checklist For Your Homeschool Planner
5 Ideas to Kick-Start Your New Homeschool Year By Including Others

5 Ideas to Kick-Start Your New Homeschool Year By Including Others

Young or old, anybody can join in this kind of party and everybody learned something.

Though we have had many years that we have spent with others, I wished we would have done something every year.

It has meant the difference between a mediocre start to our year with the kids tolerating all my pictures and poses and a memorable one.

Don’t just set aside a day or two, take a week or more to get in all those back to school pictures and plan a special event or party even if you just include one more family. 

What is one week in a 52 week year year if you school year around?  I have never regretted the work in coordinating all the events, but I have regretted not planning more.

Studying our square dance moves, gliding on ice and playing in snow in August, rendezvousing at the reef or ocean and “jet- setting” through countries mark years that we won’t easily forget.

How will you start your first day or first week of school?

5 CommentsFiled Under: Be an Exceptional Homeschool Teacher, Begin Homeschooling, How To - - -, Kick Off Your Homeschool Year Tagged With: newhomeschoolyear

The NOT To Do List: 32 Things New Homeschoolers Should Avoid

December 13, 2020 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Asking a group of seasoned homeschool moms is the best way to find out 32 things new homeschoolers should avoid.Also, look at more tips on my pages The Dynamics of How to Homeschool Easily and Smarter.

I’m reminded of what my homeschooling mother used to say. You learn new things one of two ways. One is by example and other is by experience.

The NOT To Do List: 32 Things New Homeschoolers Should Avoid

Instead of learning the homeschooling ropes the hard way by having to experiment on your kids, learn how to homeschool from those who’ve gone ahead of you or from their example.

Besides, nobody wants to experiment on their kids, but it happens.

Hoping to lessen your stress of beginning new to homeschool, look at these 32 things new homeschoolers should avoid.

Mistakes New Homeschoolers Should Avoid

  • 1. Remember your WHY or what brought you to homeschooling. Write it down somewhere so you don’t forget when times are tough.

  • 2. Do not worry if the shiny new curriculum is not working. You can change anytime, even mid-year. Look at my posts How to Build Elementary Homeschool Curriculum Directly From Amazon, How to Build Middle School Curriculum Directly From Amazon and You’ve Pitched the Homeschool Curriculum – Now What?.

  • 3. Do not recreate public school at home.

  • 4. Do not overbuy curriculum. Use inexpensive or free curriculum until you know how your children learn best. Look at my posts Free Middle School Science Curriculum and Magazine, Free Middle and High School Homeschool Language Arts, and BEST Digital Homeschool Curriculum – Big Ol’ List.

  • 5. Comparing your children, your home, and your spouse to other homeschooling families is a huge joy sucking trap. Your family is unique and homeschooling needs to fit your family’s needs.

Beginning to homeschool with unrealistic expectations is joy zapping and it’s huge among things new homeschoolers should avoid.

Homeschooling Mistakes

  • 6. You don’t have to run your homeschool day like other homeschool moms although they may tout only one way works.

  • 7. Keep pushing curriculum which isn’t working is another big do not do.

  • 8. Thinking your kids will all learn the same way is another hurdle. It’s okay to use various programs to meet each child’s needs.

  • 9. Curriculum is a tool, not the boss. You are the boss.

  • 10. Do not jump into a rigid schedule. Give yourself AND your kids time to adjust to homeschooling. Look at my post The Sticking Power of a Solid Homeschool Schedule.

Mistakes to Avoid When Homeschooling for the First Time

  • 12. Thinking your school needs to look like public school with tons of worksheets and textbooks is another mistake. Your school doesn’t have to look like public school. Look at my post The Great Homeschool Hoax – Public School At Home.

  • 13. Don’t stress over the small stuff. Learning doesn’t just happen with a book in a kid’s face. Learning happens through everyday interaction and meaningful conversations. Take time to deschool and understand what it means for your family.

  • 14. Do not think you have to cram everything a child needs to learn in a day. Take it one day at a time.

  • 15. You’re not a one act entertaining committee. Sometimes learning is not always fun, it’s just learning. Constantly feeling like everyday has to be over the top fun is exhausting and can zap the joy out of the day.

  • 16. Don’t forget to ask your kids what they want to learn. It’s their education. When you have a willing participant in homeschooling, kids work harder and retain what they’re learning. That makes your job easier.

Homeschooling Potholes to Avoid

  • 17. Do not skip field trips. They are essential to bringing learning to life. Kids learn by being out in the world.

The NOT To Do List: 32 Things New Homeschoolers Should Avoid
  • 18. Don’t underestimate the value of play. Playing is the first introduction to self-education.

  • 19. Assuming homeschooling will be expensive is another mistake. You can spend as little or as much as you want depending on your needs.

  • 20. Know the difference between homeschooling and public school at home. Don’t assume you have to purchase a government based online public school. Look at my post Transitioning from a Public School Mindset to a Relaxed Homeschooling Lifestyle.

  • 21. Using curriculum because somebody else uses it is a costly mistake.

What NOT to Do When You Begin Homeschooling

Also, why do we focus only our kids’ needs when beginning to homeschool? When you focus on your education which doesn’t have to take long you truly can help each child meet his potential.

  • 22. Forcing socialization is another mistake to avoid. Over worrying how to socialize your kids is consuming. It’s like saying after kids graduate they’ll never make friends. Kids make friends through their whole journey and on into adulthood. Look at my posts Is Homeschooling Right for Your Family? Hear From the Kids and Socialization – A Homeschool Hallucination.

  • 23. Don’t be a perfectionist. You’ll mess up, your kids will mess up. Tomorrow starts a new and fresh day.

  • 24. Homeschooled kids don’t need to be in class the same amount of time as public schooled kids. We simply do not have the same distractions.

  • 25. You don’t have to follow state educational standards. Knowing your state homeschool laws is the first place to start.

  • 26. Don’t give up in February because the winter slump is real. Spring will come soon. Hang in there. Look at my post 10 Biggest Homeschool Burnout Triggers (and how to cope).

New to Homeschooling

  • 27. Instead of jumping to buy curriculum, take time to know how your child learns best. Look at my post How to Choose the BEST Homeschool Curriculum to Fit a Child’s Natural Abilities.

  • 28. Don’t rush. Get outdoors and go to the library. Nothing has to be timed.

  • 29 Don’t be put off when it takes you longer than a year for you or your child to adjust to homeschooling.

Mistakes New Homeschoolers Should Avoid

  • 30. There is no need to rush out and buy curriculum. Do your research and if you can try your friend’s curriculum before you buy. Look at my post BEST Curriculum by Homeschoolers for Homeschoolers.

  • 31. Do not think it’s not okay to step away and take a break.
  • 32. Don’t write your lesson plans in pen. The first sick day and you’re feeling behind. Plan just a few weeks out.

And finally, do NOT think you can’t do this. You absolutely one hundred percent can.

You’ll love my book, Homeschooling 31 Day Boot Camp for New Homeschoolers: When You Don’t Know Where to Begin.

You’ll experience one or two mistakes, but they can be minimized.

There seems to only be two mindsets when new homeschoolers start.

There seems to only be two mindsets when new homeschoolers start.
There are over achievers who are looking to right all the wrongs in a few months or under achievers who feel a rich learning environment just happens with no intentional effort of the parent. Avoid these two mindsets!

Neither mindset works, but it can set you for failure. Achieving balance is absolutely key in your first year of homeschooling.

Do you find you’re making some of these mistakes already?

You’ll love some more tips below about how to start homeschooling:

  • Transitioning from Public School to Homeschool For a Relaxed Lifestyle
  • When Homeschooling is Sucking the Life Out of You
  • Why My Homeschooled Kids Are Not Given the Choice to Go to Public School
  • 26 of the BIGGEST Gripes about the Homeschooling Lifestyle!
  • The NOT To Do List: 32 Things New Homeschoolers Should Avoid
  • Homeschool Confession – My Homeschool Mistakes
  • When Homeschooling is a Mistake
  • 5 Top Mistakes of New or Struggling Homeschoolers
  • Socialization – A Homeschool Hallucination?
  • How To Start Homeschooling the Easy No Stress Way (Maybe)
  • First Time Homeschool Mom: Am I Doing This Right?
  • Is Homeschooling Right for Your Family? Hear From the Kids!
  • What to Expect When You Expect to Homeschool (25 Silliest Questions Ever)
  • Homeschool Critics: How Do You Know You’re on Track?
  • 100 Ways to Silence the Homeschool Naysayers (Maybe!)
  • 12 Easy Ways Homeschooled Teens and Tweens Socialize
  • Deschooling: Step One for the New Homeschooler (the Definitions, the Dangers, and the Delight)

Hugs and love ya,

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Begin Homeschooling, Homeschool Simply, Kick Off Your Homeschool Year, New Homeschooler Help Tagged With: homeschool challenges, homeschool joy, homeschool joys, homeschoolchallenges, homeschoolplanning, new homeschool year, new homeschooler, new homeschooler homeschool organization, newbeehomeschooler, newhomeschoolyear

How to Build Elementary Homeschool Curriculum Directly From Amazon

July 11, 2020 | 1 Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

How to build elementary homeschool curriculum directly from Amazon is easier than you think.

Whether you’ve homeschooled from the beginning or suddenly have been thrown into homeschooling, you’ll love the flexibility of being able to choose from Amazon.

I love supporting vendors who sell homeschool curriculum, but in person conventions did not happen everywhere this year because of the pandemic.

How to Build Elementary Homeschool Curriculum Directly From Amazon

Having an option to build your elementary homeschool curriculum is vital and I made this easy for you by creating lists in my Amazon store.

Also, I have options for middle and high school. Click here for How to Build High School Curriculum Directly From Amazon and here for How to Build Middle School Curriculum Directly From Amazon.

Elementary Homeschool Curriculum Directly From Amazon

First, the essential subjects that you want to teach in the elementary years are language arts, math, history and science.

Of course this doesn’t mean these are the only ones, but those four are the basis for a solid foundation.

Too, in the elementary years one-to-one tutoring does not take as long as the academic load that homeschooled kids in the upper grades carry. While it’s true a younger child may need more breaks, the workload is still pretty flexible in the elementary years and you have time to add other subjects for enrichment.

Now that you understand the 4 BIG ones as I call them, you also need to know how to break down language arts components.

Here are the components of language arts and based on your child’s age, ability, or level, you need to decide which ones he will need to do.

  • Reading. This includes reading aloud.
  • Phonics. Normally you want to do this until about 4th grade.
  • Spelling. Phonics is the precursor to spelling. Don’t be so quick to teach formal spelling because a child needs input first which phonics does.
  • Penmanship (no this is not composition). This is just what it means, learning how to write. It’s done in the early grades.
  • Composition comes after penmanship and it is about teaching a child how to compose his thoughts.
  • Grammar. Normally you start this in the second or third grade.

Language Arts Curriculum from Amazon

Keep in mind the subjects you cover in the elementary grades are just a rule of thumb.

Because kids can be all over the place on levels, I am giving you the big picture so you know how to choose.

It’s worrisome to not know which subjects to introduce and when to introduce them. I want you to be in the know.

So look at the subjects below based on grade level.

  • If your child is at grades 1 or 2, you want to choose a reading program, a phonics program, and a writing program.
  • If you child is at grades 3 to 4, you want to choose a reading program, a phonics program, a spelling program, a writing program or composition program and a grammar program.
  • If your child is at grades 5 to 6, you want to choose a reading program, a composition program, a spelling program, and a grammar program.
  • Science and history can be as easy as reading a book in the earlier grades and then progress to taking more time like from 3rd grade on.

Curriculum from Amazon

Also, to be sure you’ve covered the bases for subjects, use my checklist for curriculum resources below

You can download an editable copy over at STEP 5A of my free 7 Step Homeschool Planner.

Additionally, I have this super helpful post How to Know What A Homeschooled Child Should Learn Yearly.

Now, look at lists I’ve created for you to give you choices on the different variety of curriculum.

By using the guideline above where I explain what to choose in each grade, you’ll be sure you won’t miss any vital curriculum for a grade.

  • If you’re teaching a new reader, choose a phonics program from the Elementary – Phonics (Up to 4th Grade) List and beginning readers from the Elementary – Teaching Reading & Beginner Readers.
  • Click here for the Elementary Spelling List.
  • Click here for the Elementary – Writing (Penmanship OR Composition) List.
  • Look at this Elementary – Reading List to get you started. Pick a few books along with what your child is reading for history and science and you have an excellent reading program.

Homeschool History and Science from Amazon

In addition, history and science are considered core subjects in some states.

Here is the Elementary – History & Geography List and here is the Elementary – Science List.

After you add the Big Four core subjects, you can add other subjects. By starting with the Big Four, you know that you have the essentials covered.

If you have many learners under the age of 7 or 8, then covering the Big Four for the day is solid. As your little ones get older and as you have time, you can add other subjects which interest your kids.

Sometimes lesson plans can be too lofty for the elementary ages, but remember play is still a huge part of the learning day too. There is no need to fill your day with too many subjects.

How to Build Elementary Homeschool Curriculum Directly From Amazon

The Big Four subjects a.k.a. language arts, math, science and history are the same ones all the way to High School. There is a lot of years to cover those subjects so include plenty of hands-on activities too.

Elementary Homeschool Curriculum

Look at these other tips I have for you:

  • How to Build Middle School Curriculum Directly From Amazon
  • 20 Nature-Inspired Kids’ Novels to Nurture Interest In the Outdoors
  • 6 Boy Approved Books Which Spark the Love of Reading
  • 6 Tricks for the Kid That’s NOT in Love with Reading!
  • How To Get Your First Homeschooled Child Reading
  • 10 Fun Things You Can Teach Using Geronimo Stilton Books
  • Homeschool Colorful Reading Journal to Motivate Kids
  • 3 Ways to Choose the BEST Writing Curriculum (for a Growing Homeschool Family)
How to Build Elementary Homeschool Curriculum Directly From Amazon

The beauty of choosing curriculum directly from Amazon is that you not only can meet your kids’ needs, but also meet state guidelines if you have them.

You’re off to a great start this year!

1 CommentFiled Under: Choose Curriculum, Homeschool Simply, Kick Off Your Homeschool Year, Lesson Plan, Teach Homeschool Math, Teach Homeschool Science, Teach/Which Subjects to Teach/Cover EVERYTHING Tagged With: curriculum, cursive, elementary, homeschoolreading, language arts, languagearts, math, phonics, reading

100 Reasons Why Homeschooling is a SUPERIOR Education

November 22, 2019 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have 100 reasons why homeschooling is a superior education. Also, you’ll love more tips on my page The Dynamics of How to Homeschool Easily and Smarter.

In the early 1980s, my mom homeschooled my youngest sister.

Then, folks thought homeschooling was illegal. It wasn’t, but it felt that way.

As my mom researched about homeschooling, I read the same research as meager as it was, but I came to appreciate that homeschoooling is a superior education for many reasons.

I was in public high school and close to graduating when my mom began her homeschool journey.

Later, I started my family and now I have 3 homeschool grads. I’ve seen many changes – big and small.

100 Reasons Why Homeschooling is a SUPERIOR Education. I don't think homeschooling is for everyone.  

There are valid reasons why folks can't homeschool, but not having favorable circumstances doesn't negate the superior value of the homeschool approach. CLICK HERE to read this long list of how homeschooling is a superior education.
#homeschool #homeschooling #newhomeschooler

One thing which has exploded for me is my BIG list of reasons why homeschooling is better than school.

Too, we have stats now for you to analyze, but the hundreds and hundreds of personal success stories are of greater value to me.

I don’t think homeschooling is for everyone.
There are valid reasons why folks can’t homeschool, but not having favorable circumstances doesn’t negate the superior value of the homeschool approach.

I wished EVERY family could give their kids one-to-one tutoring. Those odds are hard to beat.

Reasons Why to Homeschool

Look at these 100 reasons why the homeschool approach is better than a public school education.

  • Education is different than schooling. ALL children can be educated, but if a child doesn’t step in sync to public standards in a school he is failed. The public standard is put ahead of the child. The self-confidence that a child has is undermined.
  • Bullying by students and teachers isn’t tolerated in the homeschool world.
  • Education at home is in sync with how a child develops and as he masters concepts.
  • More time is spent outdoors and nature becomes the child’s schoolmaster.
  • Sleep, diet, and wellness of the child is superior at home because of the ability to adapt to the needs of each child.

  • Passions are intensely pursued which turns to mastery of topics by children.
  • Children will read well on their timetable which sets them up for lifelong success. Waiting on a child to read sets them up for loving to read instead of having to read. One is a delight the other is drudgery.
  • The parent is hands-on with their children and children flourish with personal and loving attention.
  • Freedom. It’s the true meaning of a superior education when you’re not told what to learn each day.
  • Open-ended questions becomes the segue to mastery of material, not being spoon-fed.
100 Reasons Why Homeschooling is a SUPERIOR Education

Reasons to Choose Homeschool

  • Learning is not looked at as grade levels, but for longer periods of time. Did you know that a lot of homeschooled kids don’t care what grade they’re in until they get older? Grade levels compartmentalize learning.
  • We trust the fact the children have a natural curiosity to learn and it shouldn’t be contained in workbooks.
  • Homeschooled kids learn excellence without the two Ws that public school enforces – walls and workbooks.
  • Education happens while you travel and see the world. Even a child’s own backyard is his science lab.
  • Customized learning is the BEST.

  • Children are not exposed to active shooter drills. Children focus on celebrating childhood not being in fear of it.
  • By not being up at 5 a.m. to walk in the dark and catch a school bus, children wake up later rested and go for a nature walk. Playing piano or practicing art before the formal part of their day begins is the norm.
  • Instead of constantly cutting or washing their children’s hair because they’re exposed to lice, they are outside playing in a leaf pile or making snow angels.
  • Instead of focusing on how vaccines are harmful to children, the family is focusing on a vacation to learn about caves or the beach.
  • Sex education is the parent’s right to teach their children at a time he is ready. A parent protects the innocence of her children because she knows the exact time to expose her children to sensitive matters.

Why Parents Homeschool Their Kids

  • Fear of gangs does not have to be present.
  • Parents and not peers are the best to influence their children.
  • The family chooses ideals they want their children rooted in instead of society deciding what is accepted and not accepted.
  • Education is not forced-fed.
  • When it comes to what our children are learning, most families want more.
100 Reasons Why Homeschooling is a SUPERIOR Education
  • Gifted children can move ahead and not get in trouble because they became bored in a traditional classroom
  • We want our children to learn how to read proficiently and to be a lifelong reader.
  • Our children are exposed to more topics and are not learning to just pass state required tests.
  • We teach our kids skills that will be practical for them in life.
  • Does anybody else find it bizarre to turn your children over to a complete stranger who spends most of his day with them?

  • Children are not constantly sick and missing out on learning opportunities.
  • You can teach in a relaxed way without jumping through hoops to meet rules.
  • Learning at home is more exploratory and not workbook driven.
  • It’s unhealthy for children of any age to sit for six hours a day.
  • Home fosters a love for learning.

What is a Superior Education?

  • We teach things that public school can’t teach like how to budget, how to save, and how to not get in debt.
  • As parents we ARE the experts. An expert is one who has an authoritative knowledge of a skill. Parents are the experts for their children.
  • We change curriculum instantly when it’s not working. We don’t wait on red tape or even the start of a new school year to make changes.
  • Adjusting the hours and days to suit our family’s life keeps learning a privilege and something children look forward to each day.
  • Pushing our children out of their comfort zone, but in a secure environment elevates their learning to another level.

  • We want our children to pursue learning as a lifestyle and not a list to check off.
  • It takes less time to learn at home. There are no unnatural interruptions at home. Children are used to natural interruptions like younger siblings or a change in a parent’s schedule.
  • We have the choice to put our children in front of a computer for school, crack open a physical book, or both.
  • We do not need to answer to the government. It’s been my experience that most parents exceed any government standard.
  • Tests should have a purpose, not be meaningless. Parents are the ones to best determine if a tests suits their needs.

How to Start Homeschooling

  • Face to face discussions everyday with your children gives you a window into their heart and what is on their mind. Channeling children to do good is part of a superior education.
  • Academics can be delayed for young children so they have more time to play and be little boys and girls.
  • Children learn from experiences and not just from children their same age.
  • Children can be ready for higher level courses on their timetable. Sometimes that is earlier than what is considered the high school years.
  • Instead of reading about science in a boring textbooks, children get their hands dirty doing science.

  • Homework is a nightmare. While at home, children learn at times that are good for them. What are they doing all day in public school?
  • Parents don’t want to feel disconnected from their children because children get up at dark:30 and are exhausted when they come home.
  • Free public school doesn’t mean better. Parents decide which curriculum is free and which curriculum is paid.
  • Children learn at home what is a true entrepreneur.
  • Children learn cursive at home which always been the standard of a well-educated man. Learning to read cursive is a skill that many children are losing.

  • There is no mind numbing busy work at home.
  • Public school suffers budget cuts, but at home even the most modest budget is ample for children.
  • No one gets left behind at home because the pace is set to each child.
  • The learning style of each child is important and learning is tailored to strengths.
  • There is not constant focus on what a child cannot do, but how to pursue what he can do.
100 Reasons Why Homeschooling is a SUPERIOR Education

Why You Homeschool

  • Home is the best place to prepare children for adulthood which is the true meaning of education.
  • Special needs children can learn in a safe environment instead of being made fun of by both teachers and children.
  • Extracurricular activities can be increased or limited to the needs of each family.
  • Common sense is used as a measure of what to teach and not common core.
  • There is less pressure on young children at an early age.

  • Parents want the say over what to teach their children.
  • One approach or curriculum can be used for one child and a completely different curriculum and approach for another child.
  • Teens don’t have to spend four years in high school and waste time on subjects they’ve mastered. They can move on to college level work in high school or sooner if they’re ready.
  • Mistakes by a child are viewed as learning experiences. Failure is a good teacher. Learning that early on teaches a child to try again and critical thinking skills.
  • Getting children out of their comfort zone teaches them to take charge of their learning.

  • Unless you plan to homeschool under a rock, children have frequent socialization with adults and children. They learn the true meaning of socialization which is how to behave in a mixed aged group.
  • Children learn compassion and kindness when they take care of family members who have become sick. Waiting to teach children how to be kind when they’re adults could be turning out self-centered people. Children learn early to put their needs on the back burner while caring for those hit with sickness.
  • Religion or lack of it is the SOLE responsibility of the parent.
  • Being at home allows children to dig deeper and not have to move on until their curiosity has piqued.
  • Parents are the ones enjoying the best times with their children instead of someone else. That love fosters a strong desire to learn because children know they’re in a secure and safe environment

Individualized Homeschool Education

  • When a child has medical issues, his learning is not delayed.
  • Children do have to have a substitute teacher who may care little to none about a child.
  • Parents want their children to enjoy learning as long as possible.
  • While being educated, children have the flexibility to run a family-based business.
  • Time spent with children is superior quality.

  • Field trips in the homeschool world can happen every week if the family chooses to and not just while children are in Kindergarten.
  • It’s just a better education tailored to each child.
  • Parents don’t want their children away from them for so many hours.
  • Families aren’t locked into school calendars of when children should learn.
  • Children want to be outside a lot and play.
100 Reasons Why Homeschooling is a SUPERIOR Education
  • Some children choose a career or college track and can pursue their objectives better at home with the freedom they need.
  • The pace in Kindergarten has gone to ridiculous for little kids. Standardized tests in Kindergarten is becoming the norm.
  • Children can travel the world and learn about it instead of inside a crowded classroom.
  • Families teach children about being a member of society by being in it and getting children involved it.
  • There are not tons of useless meetings with teachers or administrators who may care little about the success of your children.

More Posts on Why Homeschooling is a Superior Educational Approach

  • Why My Homeschooled Kids Are Not Given the Choice to Go to Public School
  • Transitioning from Public School to Homeschool For a Relaxed Lifestyle
  • It’s a New Homeschool Year and My Child Wants to Go Back to Public School
  • Deschool – Get off the Public School Treadmill!

Top Reasons to Homeschool

  • Families can address immediately any perceived gaps in a child’s education.
  • Testing is not used as the gauge of what children know and do not know.
  • A school setting is arbitrary and unnatural.
  • Families can allow humor and grace to meet in the day which aids children to be emotionally sound.
  • More time is spent reading together as a family.
  • Children are valued instead of demeaned by being told to raise their hand to go to the bathroom, eat, or drink. That is very opposite of the real world.
  • It is the right of a parent to pick associates or peers instead of children being poorly influenced in a classroom.
  • Nobody knows children better than the parents. Nobody.
  • College tuition is overpriced and homeschool parents have options like CLEP and dual credit.
  • Public schools cannot simply meet the needs of all children.
100 Reasons Why Homeschooling is a SUPERIOR Education. I don't think homeschooling is for everyone.  

There are valid reasons why folks can't homeschool, but not having favorable circumstances doesn't negate the superior value of the homeschool approach. CLICK HERE! #homeschool #homeschooling #newhomeschooler

I don’t EVER talk folks into homeschooling because some days are flat out hard, but in the end it’s been worth every bit of stress.

Nothing beats the unique journey which each of my children have had. They’ve all had a private and elite education with less then half the cost of public education.

In the process, they have formed lifelong friends; we constantly have had to cut back on time spent in 4 H club, art classes, foreign language classes and ballroom dance classes to name a few so we could be at home.

What else will I add to my list in the next 10 years?

What questions do you have about homeschooling?

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Begin Homeschooling, Homeschool Simply, Homeschooling, Kick Off Your Homeschool Year Tagged With: deschooling, homeschool, homeschool challenges, homeschool joy, homeschool lifestyle, homeschoolplanning, newbeehomeschooler, reasonstohomeschool

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