In the 1970s, John Holt, a Massachusetts educator detailed how the traditional educational system of the industrial age is no longer relevant to the goals of education in the 21st century and children are suffering because of it. Holt described a system where the child would learn at home with a parent or education one-on-one so they could get the individual attention they needed.
The student was also given the advantage of being able to learn in a fashion that suits their individual needs. The ideology of igniting intrinsic motivation within children’s minds was revolutionary. Holt became what was later known as “the father of home-schooling”. These concepts paved the way for parents to take their child’s education into their own hands.
5 Things to Know About Homeschooling
When you are looking for the best homeschool curriculum for your child, you should do your research carefully because there are a lot of methods out there. Some things you should know about homeschooling before you take your child out of public school include:
1. Homeschooling Laws in Your State
It is best to check the laws of your state by looking at the department of education websites. This will illuminate what the laws are around homeschooling. These rules and regulations can be fluid, so check this site often for any updates or changes.
2. Activities and Homeschool Groups in Your Area
You can find this information on homeschooling websites like National Home School Association which offers families involved in homeschooling resources, program information, support, and activities in your area.
3. What Type of Homeschooling Methods Are There?
Classical
This is one of the best homeschool programs and the oldest. This type of homeschooling was practiced by Ancient Greeks and Romans and has withstood the test of time.
Charlotte Mason
This method focuses on short study periods followed by nature walks, observation studies, narration, and other less rigid educational activities.
Montessori
The Montessori homeschool curriculum focuses on teaching the child by taking into consideration social, spiritual, educational, and physical needs in its methods. Some parents swear that this is the best homeschool curriculum for children with disabilities.
Unschooling
This method is based on John Holt’s homeschooling method but is not generally touted as an optimal educational program.
School-at-Home
This online homeschool program mirrors the format of a traditional classroom and can often follow the curriculum simultaneously.
Unit Studies
Unit studies are based on a thematic approach to the courses where you could be learning about Ancient Rome in history, studying Rome in geography & learning the contributions the Romans made to mathematics.
Eclectic Education Methods
Eclectic education methods offer parents and students a choice of any of the other types of methods to pick and choose at a whim or to create a planned week.
Project Based Learning
Project Based Learning (PBL) is a teaching method in which students learn by actively engaging in real-world and personally meaningful projects. They demonstrate their knowledge and skills by creating a tangible product or presentation, unleashing creativity, communication & collaboration.
Mastery-Based Grading
Mastery-based grading is a system for assessing students while promoting deeper learning. Instead of earning a certain score or letter grade and moving on to a new curriculum, mastery-based grading gives learners the time and flexibility to focus on mastering a standard.
4. What Kind of Resources Are Required?
The resources for teaching at home could be the same as what is being used in the local public school or provided to you if you decide to attend a homeschool academy. Academies like ASU Digital Prep, Laurel Springs, and Sora Schools are believed to be the best online homeschool programs by certain parents because they give a clear path of learning while also allowing for the flexibility of learning at home. There are several accredited homeschool programs to choose from and since it is an online homeschool curriculum, you don’t need to travel anywhere.
5. Develop a Network of Support
When you make the decision to homeschool your child, it is important to seek support from like-minded parents who may have valuable insight to share. Starting to homeschool can be a daunting task, so seek support from sites like National Home School Association and connect with other homeschoolers in your community.
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