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Homeschooling Methods
One of the most exciting aspects of homeschooling is the multitude of educational methods to choose from. Ironically, it's also one of the most daunting and mind-boggling for those just entering the homeschooling arena. There is not any one "right" way to homeschool. How you homeschool will probably change and grow as you continue in the journey. It is beneficial to explore all the options open-mindedly. Take into consideration the needs, goals, schedules, personalities, learning styles, and obstacles of each of your children, yourself, and your family as a whole. Be patient with your family's homeschooling journey--it takes time to break away from the public education paradigm and discover what works for your family. Following is a list of some of the most common educational methods to be implemented in a homeschooling plan. These are not listed in any particular order.
Traditional or 'School at Home'The traditional method of instruction would be similar to the public school style with a curriculum, grading, testing and schedules. Usually a curriculum package is used with the typical grades and subjects taught in a school. The 'school at home' family will usually have a daily schedule and will typically also have school days and vacation days.A Beka Book Unit StudyUnit studies are an integrated thematic approach to learning several subjects/concepts through a main topic. Topics or themes can be chosen by the child's interests, experiences in family life, books, events in the news, etc. This method can be used with different grades at one time to incorporate all the children of a family. Unit studies can be made up by the parent, taken from a book of unit studies or from sources on-line. For example, a child's interest may be insects. Several subjects can be covered with this one topic. Science includes the insects' body parts and habitats. Geography is learned by studying different countries' insects. Many fictional books with insect characters can be found to cover reading. Social studies is covered with insect control or insect use in different cultures. For more help planning your own unit study, see Highland Heritage or join an active co-op group such as Unit-Safari.Easy Fun School
WaldorfWaldorf education educates the whole child -- head, heart and hands. It is geared to the child's stages of development and incorporates all elements -- intellectual, artistic, spiritual and movement. The goal is to produce individuals who are able, in and of themselves, to impart meaning to their lives.Oak Meadow Charlotte MasonCharlotte Mason was an educator in the 1800's. Her method "is based on core subjects and incorporates the fine arts. Children deal directly with the best books, music and art. The children are trained in the practice of narration, or telling back what they've learned. The emphasis is always placed on what the children do know rather than what they do not know. This training in essay-style examination effectively prepares children for adulthood and success in college." Her material covers an extensive amount of topics including: the formation of good habits, keeping a Nature Diary, and preparing a handmade Book of the Centuries. Charlotte Mason advocates the avoidance of twaddle, or what we might call "dumbed down" literature, and replaces twaddle with classic literature and noble poetry. Her method also includes a unique style of dictation and spelling.Charlotte Mason Approach Classical Education/TriviumThe Classical Approach to education is based upon the medieval scheme of education teaching children to think, not teaching "subjects". The medieval syllabus has as the primary part of education the Trivium. The Trivium consists of three parts: "Grammar", "Dialectic", and "Rhetoric". The first part, "Grammar", is not the subject of grammar; rather it is the study of the basic facts of different subjects. This stage covers the ages of approximately 6 to 10, the stage when children are the most receptive to information and will readily memorize information. The "Dialectic" stage, begins at approximately age 10 when children naturally begin to demonstrate independent or abstract thought. In the "Rhetoric" stage, the aim is to produce a student who can use language, both written and spoken, eloquently and persuasively to express what he thinks. Classical Christian Homeschooling
EclecticUsing any combination of methods of homeschooling!!Natural Learning/Child Led Learning/UnschoolingEducation is not separated from living life. In unschooling, learning can happen anywhere and at anytime. It is an ongoing and natural endeavor.Radical Unschooling
Looking for curriculum suppliers? Check our listing page here. Is it legal?Homeschooling in our times is still looked upon by many people as unusual. I had visited a variety store Summer of 2003 and purchased many school supplies. I was asked by the cashier if I was a teacher. Upon replying "No, we homeschool," the woman asked me "Is it legal?" Homeschooling is legal in all 50 states. For more information about other countries check support groups or NHEN. Bottom of the page notesHomeschooling is not a one-size fits all type of education. Children's learning styles are as varied as the biggest box of crayons one can find. If a certain style doesn't mesh with your child, try a different method. You may even have to try different methods for different subjects. Also keep in mind the same method may not work for every child in your family. Be flexible, listen and you will find the method best for each child. We are here to be a resource for homeschoolers and those thinking about homeschooling. If you have any questions, and I will try to help get you headed in the right direction. Please note: Sponsor links come from the Google search engine. They do not reflect the views or opinions of this website. 
Homeschooling on a Shoestring
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