The biggest mistake that most new homeschoolers make is turning the homeschool into a school. We purchase desks. We purchase formal curriculum. Some of us even resort to ringing bells and using chalkboards. While nothing is wrong with the elements in and of themselves, however, by creating a full fledged school experience takes the home out of homeschool. What you should be removing from the homeschool experience is the school. Here are some ideas that will keep you from turning your homeschool into a school.
Don’t bother buying desks. Chances are your children will never sit in them. You may be better off with floor pillows, and clipboards instead. If you have a dedicated homeschool room you should think about adding an old clawfoot tub filled with pillows for reading and a tv tray pulled up to a sofa for writing. In my personal experience, my kids preferred working under the dining room table which was draped like a tent.
Don’t be too rigid with curriculum. While a full homeschool curriculum set makes homeschooling easier for first time homeschool parents, it can be a nightmare for the child. Watch for signals to tell you when they are overwhelvmed or when the work is not right for their learning style, and try to find alternatives whenever necessary.
Allow flexibility in your schedules. Schedules are nice, but sometimes you need to allow children to sleep in, or too take a day off to go to the park, to the library, or to the zoo. Remember to leave some time for a bit of impromptu fun.
In short, don’t try to duplicate a classroom in your home. While a chalkboard is a fun novelty, as long as you allow the children to draw on it, and a bell, could be a good tool to keep yourself from shouting, too many school items and accessories distract from the comfort and the fun of home.
Finding the Curriculum You Need At a Price You Can Afford
Discipline in the Homeschool Classroom
*Have a question about homeschooling? Just ask.
* Have you seen the homeschooling curriculum glossary?