When we started our homeschool journey years ago, I was a complete novice. I didn’t know there were different approaches to at home learning, and I certainly didn’t know I could choose whichever method best matched my children’s learning style. Well, you don’t have to be like me! You can take advantage of some hard-won knowledge and learn basics right here! Think of this post as your one-stop, homeschool methods 101, crash course. Also, if you’re not sure where to begin, take this
Homeschool Philosophy Quiz [1] to find out what fits your family’s style!
Read More [2]
There are actually many different methods or approaches to homeschooling, but for the sake of efficiency we’ve collected the most prominent 6 for you here.
Why not start with the classics, right? The classical approach is a very popular method that parallels a teaching style dating back to the Greeks and Romans. A classical education is language-based, rather than hands-on or video-based like many of the other homeschooling styles. Subjects are taught in chronological order so they can overlap historically making events in history much easier to follow. Learn more by clicking here [3]!
Charlotte Mason was a highly respected British educator of the nineteenth century. She believed in teaching to the whole child and that all learning should be delightful. The Charlotte Mason method is based on Charlotte’s firm belief that the child is a person and we must educate that whole person, not just his mind. So a Charlotte Mason education is three-pronged: in her words, “Education is an Atmosphere, a Discipline, a Life.” Read more here! [4]
This one is a tried and true way to educate, and also probably the easiest for beginners, since it most closely resembles the traditional school setting. There are lesson plans for you to follow, children learn with textbooks at a desk or some other designated learning space. Read all about this method here! [5]
I know what it sounds like! But this approach works wonders for lots of people! In basic terms, unschooling is a method of learning that does not follow a curriculum, but instead allows a child’s natural interests to guide the parent in what to study. It’s outside the box and unique, which are pillars of many homeschool families’ core learning principles. Click here for more information on unschooling [6].
This is quickly becoming the more popular method of homeschooling! Online learning includes a variety of options for guided or self-paced studies, and lesson plans and grading are all done for you! Check out the details here! [7]
Homeschooling definitely requires consistency and dedicated effort. But it also affords flexibility like no other form of education can. This method maximizes that flexibility, allowing you to utilize whatever styles work best for you and your kids! Read all about it, right here! [8]
If you’re unsure where to begin, don’t stress! Here is a handy little quiz [1] to find out what method best fits you and your family. You may even find that a blend of styles makes the most sense for you!
***Make sure to join our How to Homeschool for Free Facebook Support Group [9] for daily encouragement in your homeschooling journey!***