BEFORE YOU SHOP
New homeschool parents (especially moms) feel unnecessary pressure to dive in and buy a bunch of curricula. However, it's important to allow time for exploring, reading reviews, and weighing options. Depending on the situation, it might be helpful to start a student out with one or two core subjects, and gradually build from there.
Along the homeschooling journey, parents can equip themselves by:
In regard to curricula, be certain that sometimes "fabulous selections" won't pan out. This is an unavoidable part of the learning process and part of life in general. People and families are unique and seasons change. Relax, it's OK.
SOME HELPFUL BOOKS FOR STARTERS:
In Their Own Way: Discovering and Encouraging Your Child's Personal Learning Style by Thomas Armstrong
The Five Love Languages of Children by Gary Chapman & Ross Campbell
The Five Love Languages of Teenagers by Gary Chapman
Along the homeschooling journey, parents can equip themselves by:
- Learning about Washington State Laws
- Observing and assessing the needs of each child and his/her particular learning style(s) - see Suggested Reading
- Learning about homeschooling methods
- Determining the ways they themselves best teach
- Attending an annual homeschool conference (encouraging and refreshing)
- Taking a parent qualifying course (even if the primary teaching parent meets the legal requirements of having 45 college credits)
In regard to curricula, be certain that sometimes "fabulous selections" won't pan out. This is an unavoidable part of the learning process and part of life in general. People and families are unique and seasons change. Relax, it's OK.
SOME HELPFUL BOOKS FOR STARTERS:
In Their Own Way: Discovering and Encouraging Your Child's Personal Learning Style by Thomas Armstrong
The Five Love Languages of Children by Gary Chapman & Ross Campbell
The Five Love Languages of Teenagers by Gary Chapman
