I read a post on an e-mail list this morning from a new homeschooling mom with a kindergartener. She was concerned that she wasn't doing enough for her child and worried when she saw other kids doing homework worksheets at the dance studio, although she knew her child could do the same work. She went on to explain many of the things they do work on when schooling - and her list was impressive with an emphasis on problem solving and academic skills that her child enjoys. Like all new homeschooling moms, she was worried that she wasn't doing enough and that her child might fall behind. I remember those feelings, don't you? I felt compelled to add to the responses to her concerns and thought I'd post my reply here as well:
Evie,
I love questions like yours - and the answers that you have gotten thus far! I'm the mom of two homeschooled-all-the-way-through sons and when I read what you are doing, I am just flooded with wonderful memories!
I believe the biggest difference between classroom schooling and homeschooling is that homeschooling becomes a lifestyle, and it sounds like you are at that point already! Even though my kids are 24 and 21 now, I still tend to ask open-ended questions and answer a question with another question - tough habit to break!
You say you worry about "doing school" every day. Remember that education extends far beyond the classroom so, yes, you ARE "doing school" every day! You are doing so, so much for your child and he will appreciate it so much in the future, even the near future, as he is able to interact well with people of all ages. My oldest is a police officer and he has had many co-workers comment on his writing skills (they have a lot of paperwork!) and on how he interacts with others. My younger son is a Marine and has progressed rapidly through the ranks because of his study skills and work ethic and how he applies those things to his work. These are all natural skills for both of them because of the atmosphere in which they were raised and educated.
Continue to expose your child to many things, read, read, read, and allow some flexibility when it's time to be on a heavier-duty study schedule; take time for the delight-directed learning opportunities as well as the school books. Teach your child how to think, to read, to love reading, and where to find information and the child will be on the fast track to success as an adult.
I love homeschooling and homeschoolers!
Blessings,
Susan
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2 comments:
Kids will only learn what they are taught. If you teach them, they will learn.. its WHAT you teach them that you have to take into consideration. If you dump them in front of the TV, they will learn, but look at what they are learning! My granddaughter had memorized the recipe for sugar cookie roll outs and could make them from start to finish, (except the oven part!) when she was 2 yrs old and could recite the measuring cup amounts - Didn't know what 1/4 cup was, but knew it was smaller than a 1/2 cup and had fun reciting. Now in school, as soon as they learn fractions, she will be that much ahead! teach them in a fun way, and with something that they like or enjoy and they will learn better and faster and retain it better.
Just my 2¢!
Cheri
http://frugal-money-saving-ideas.blogpspot.com
Cheri,
What a great story - and a great example! You have a bright little granddaughter there!
Thanks for sharing,
Susan
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