First Year Jitters?

I remember when we decided to homeschool.  I remember the nervous anticipation of choosing curriculum, and wondering if we were going to survive, not to mention actually LEARN anything.

If this is you, and you are trying to decide if you want to homeschool, or if you have made the decision, and are getting ready to start your first year; this blog cruise is for you!  Through out the year The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew, takes the time to write about many of the topic's that are relevant in the homeschool community.  Today's topic is all about advice for those considering the option of homeschooling, and for those who are committed to give it a go, and are just starting this year.

The first thing I did when I had decided that I was going to homeschool, was seek out the advice of someone that was actually DOING it.  I called up a woman I used to babysit for, and asked her what curriculum she suggested.  The first thing she said was, " Not every curriculum works for every family.  You have to find what works for you."  I remember at the time thinking..... gee,  thanks for nothing..... you have been doing this for years, and you just tell me I have to figure it out by myself???!!???? 

She eventually told me what she found worked for her and her boys, and that was the curriculum that we started with..........  I just really wanted a place to land, something I knew worked for someone, and a break from searching the Internet for hours, googling " homeschool" and coming up with more choices and getting more confused.

In the 8 years since that phone conversation, I have found out how sage her advice was.....

My advice to you, is pretty much the same: "Figure out what works for your family."

By that I mean:  Don't be afraid to change what you are doing if you don't feel your child is excelling in a certain curriculum.  Be flexible.  Changing something up mid year does not mean YOU have failed, it means 'that wasn't working'.  Remember learning happens at home ALL THE TIME!  Don't be afraid to play around with a schedule that fits your family, even if it means it isn't "normal" like public school.  Children learn at different rates an on their own schedule....  Homeschooling is much, much more than just a "thing" you do to educate your child.  Involve Dad whenever and however possible.  He has much knowledge and wisdom to impart to your children.  Homeschooling is a way of life.... a lifestyle choice that will enrich your life and the lives of your children.

Take a look at some of the other blogs on this cruise topic....  there are lots of book suggestions, and other advice for consideration.     Click the blog cruise button to see other posts.

If you are interested in some of the curriculum choices we use.... suggestions are posted to the right ---> Under the heading "Cool Stuff"