how I homeschool

Today I had many people ask me about homeschooling. People seem to think I know something they don't about homeschooling. I think I just figured out how to relax a lot sooner than some other homeschoolers.

Every family homeschools in a different way and has a different goal in their minds. Some families use a "box curriculum" that tells you exactly which pages to read today and what questions to ask. There is also the other side that unschools, allowing the child to direct all learning. Different approaches work for different family dynamics.

I am the type that would drive myself crazy with a written out program. I would need to finish every word on every page. Even if I write up the schedule, I am practically in tears if I do not finish everything by bedtime. A stressed out mommy is not helpful in homeschooling.

For Nathaniel, we have a list of daily school activities for if we were having a perfect day. Those are very few and far between. On the average day, Nathaniel does reading, math, history, and bible with other subjects depending on the day. Everyday we do bible even if we do no other school.

For Virginia, we do school as she wishes. This is at least once a day. If I see Virginia looking bored, I suggest a school activity. She loves it. Everyday, she does reading, math, handwriting, and bible.

Schooling for us is part of life. Rather than do all chores myself, I teach the children how to run the house. Nathaniel learns everyday math by helping Mark with building projects. Virginia learns everyday science by helping me cook. She can explain what each ingredient does to the recipe.

We love the way we homeschool. We are able to focus on God and each of our children's unique abilities. We are not stressed by trying to keep our kids to anyone else's standards. The kids are excelling in areas of interest and have more time to focus on those interests.

I will explain our bible time tomorrow. I love sharing our homeschool life with others interested in homeschooling their own children. Feel free to ask questions and I hope I can answer them.

sara