Homeschooling
Copyright 2001 by Rachel Keller

"The least of the work of learning is done in the classroom." (Thomas Merton)

If you are a parent, whether you home school or not, you realize the truth of this quotation. Much learning takes place outside the classroom, and I'm not talking about just homework! Your children learn so much from you. Make each experience a learning opportunity.

This is my third year of home schooling, and I am by no means an expert in the field, despite my bachelor and master degree in education and despite being certified in both preschool through eight grade and in learning disabilities. Most days I enjoy home schooling, but I'll admit that there are those days when one or both of us are in a cranky mood and I almost wish I could send him off to school.

I do love teaching, but other than all the extra work of grading, homework, and bulletin boards, I sometimes found it easier to teach other children than my own. I love the individualized instruction at the child's pace, but being a perfectionist, I find I sometimes expect far more from my son than I did from my students. It can also be difficult for the child to separate the mommy/son relationship from the teacher/student relationship. And yes, some days it's challenging to keep younger children occupied. But overall, home schooling has been a rewarding experience for us!

If you haven't already read it, check out "Socialization of the Home Schooled Child."  If you're home schooling, or considering it, you will be asked about this. Is this a valid argument? 

"Success in school depends, in large part, on your child's ability to read, and your role in helping your child become a reader extends into the classroom." (Bernice Cullinan)

Do your children like to read? My sons love reading, but reading did not come easily to my oldest son. Here is a page of excellent resources, as well as helpful ideas you can do to help your child learn to read and write better. It contains ideas for babies and young children, as well as a section on television and many quotations (in the left sidebar) dealing with books and reading.

If you're looking for a list of quality books for children, this page contains recommended books on Rachel's web site.

*  *  *