20 Things To Know Before You Homeschool
Here are some things you should know before you homeschool:
You don't need to cover all subjects every day.
Children need to experience the world around them before introducing them to school.
Children need to play. Substantial development occurs during play. Playing helps children develop confidence, take risks, become physically fit, come up with creative solutions and resolve difficult situations, express themselves, articulate their feelings, use their imagination, build their vocabulary, deal with fears, interact and cooperate with others, build relationships, develop self-control, and improve reasoning.*
Homeschool takes less time than public school. Instead of wasting time taking attendance, lining up for recess, checking for lice, or performing "active shooting" drills, you can focus on educating your children. A typical homeschool day leaves plenty of time for personal development.
Starting too early can do more harm than good. While we are encouraged to think that early education is the answer to academic success, studies have shown that the reverse is true. In “Better Late Than Early” author Raymond Moore offers insights into early education’s destructive potential.
Your home doesn't need to look like public school. Do away with the notion of uncomfortable desks and enjoy reading a book together on your couch or beanbag.
Your children need a relationship with you first and foremost. Relationship is far more important than pushing through subject matter. This is not meant to say that as educators we fail to teach our children, but rather when your children need you, you set the “work” aside and nurture and disciple them.
Homeschooling doesn't have to be expensive, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Being resourceful will save you some money. There are free online printables, used book sales, and library resources to supplement your teaching.
Keep lessons short. When your children start to glaze over, switch to something new. Generate interest by offering them variety.
They don't need to sit down to learn.
While your friends will have a lot to offer, allow the Lord to guide you. Trust in Him, rely on Him “…for your Father knows what things you have need of, before you ask him.” Matthew 6:8 (KJV) “Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.” Ephesians 3:20 (NLT)
You will not ruin your children.
You will make mistakes. Joshua 1:9 becomes our encouragement here, “…Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Failure is not final.
ALL schools, including public schools, have "gaps". Did you finish every textbook while in public school? Me either. Do you remember everything you learned in public school? Me either.
You CAN do it! Follow the Lord's leading, receive His guidance. Pray for your children. Turn any anxious thought over to Him. "Commit your works to the Lord and your plans will be established." Proverbs 16:3 (NASB)
Socializing your children isn't as difficult as some authorities might lead you to believe and public school isn't the only viable means by which to teach them civil responsibility. Allowing school age children to instill core values in their peers is desperately irresponsible. This Lord of the Flies mentality* is far from a desirable outcome in our children and our society.
Extend yourself some grace. There will be days when your baby has a fever, when you're not feeling well, you've just had surgery, perhaps you've had a death in the family or you're having a migraine. Allow yourself room to breath. Your children will learn from you in these moments (hope, caring for others, empathy) and you can pick up where you left off.
Having the support of your husband is important. There will be days you are discouraged, frustrated or lack resolve. Your husband is a key player to you not losing your sanity. He can pray for you, encourage you and spur you on. He will also add his own brand of leadership and guidance as you disciple your children.
You don’t need to have a vast knowledge of everything to be equipped to serve as a guide to learning. We are to direct our children to the study of notable men and women, amazing inventions, periods of history, masters in art, famous composers, scientific discoveries, and mathematical concepts. Picture yourself as an open vessel that God pours Himself into to accomplish His will.
Take it one year at a time. Sometimes we can become overwhelmed, especially in the beginning, looking at what’s ahead. If we take an open-handed approach, we make room for the Holy Spirit to lead, guide and direct our decision-making.
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*Benefits of Play—http://voiceofplay.org/benefits-of-play/
*Lord of the Flies Mentality—by trying to fit into a group these susceptible children transform into a murderous mob where “…the desires of the mob are greater than each character’s individual morals.”—http://www.asfmtech.org/16cantu4170/2013/05/17/lord-of-the-flies-mob-mentality/
