A discussion of different curriculum options for homeschoolers, including textbooks, online courses, unit studies, and more.
Homeschooling Laws: It is important to learn about the legal requirements for homeschooling in your state or country, as they may vary. Knowing the laws will help you understand the requirements for curriculum choices and other aspects of homeschooling.
Learning Styles: Understanding different learning styles, such as visual, auditory, and kinesthetic, can help you choose curriculum that will be effective in reaching your child.
Curriculum Types: There are different types of curriculum, such as traditional, online, and unit studies. Knowing the differences between them can help you choose what will work best for you and your child.
Goals and Objectives: Having clear goals and objectives for your child's education can help guide your curriculum choices.
Curriculum Reviews: Reading reviews of curriculum from other homeschooling parents can help you make informed decisions about what curriculum to choose.
Subject Areas: Knowing the different subject areas, such as math, science, language arts, and social studies, can help you choose curriculum that covers all the necessary areas.
Teaching Methods: Understanding the different teaching methods, such as Montessori, Charlotte Mason, and unschooling, can help you choose a method that fits your child's learning style and your teaching philosophy.
Budgeting: Knowing how much you can afford to spend on curriculum can help you make choices that fit your financial situation.
Homeschooling Resources: Knowing about resources available for homeschoolers, such as homeschool co-ops, support groups, and online communities, can provide valuable support and assistance.
Testing and Assessment: Knowing about testing and assessment options can help you evaluate whether your curriculum choices are effective and provide insight into your child's progress.
Classical Homeschooling: This approach focuses on teaching the student the classics of literature, history, and philosophy. It centers on the idea that great literature and art are universal and timeless and that understanding these works is essential to a well-rounded education.
Unschooling: Also known as child-led learning, unschooling is a type of homeschooling where the student takes the lead in deciding what they want to learn. Parents support the child's interests, and learning happens naturally through exploration and real-life experiences.
Charlotte Mason method: Based on the educational philosophy of 19th-century teacher Charlotte Mason, this approach emphasizes the use of high-quality literature, narration, copywork, and nature study to create a well-rounded education.
Montessori Homeschooling: Based on the teaching philosophy of Maria Montessori, Montessori homeschooling focuses on a child-centered approach using hands-on learning, multi-age classrooms, and student choice.
Waldorf Homeschooling: Also known as Steiner homeschooling, this approach emphasizes a holistic education that includes art, music, and drama alongside traditional academics. The curriculum aligns with the child's developmental stages and includes early childhood, elementary, and high school.
Eclectic Homeschooling: This approach is characterized by parents using materials from different educational methods to create a personalized curriculum that is tailored to their child's strengths, interests, and learning style.
Virtual/Online Homeschooling: Virtual homeschooling uses online courses and resources to deliver instruction to students at home. These programs are often self-paced and customizable, allowing students to work at their own pace.
Traditional/Religious Homeschooling: Traditional or religious homeschooling uses curriculum that spans multiple subjects and may include religious or moral education. This approach is often used by families who want to instill specific values or beliefs in their children.