When parents decide to homeschool, one of the first things many wonder is what do I need to teach? The teaching is one of the things parents are most afraid of when it comes to homeschooling.
When parents decide to homeschool, one of the first things many wonder is what do I need to teach? Or am I qualified to teach? The teaching is one of the things parents are most afraid of when it comes to homeschooling. Don’t let fear rule your life! You are the most capable person on Earth to teach your child. You have been teaching your child since birth. You have already taught your child to walk, talk love, get along with others, pray, feed themselves and many other things I’m sure. Nothing changes when your child reaches school age. You are still more than capable.
You Need to Teach The Basics
In today’s society, the “rush” to put kids in school is starting earlier and earlier, but studies show that many children aren’t ready for the rigors of formal schooling until age eight to ten. At this point, they are better able to handle the physical, mental and social demands. Until this age, the only thing a homeschool parent really needs to teach are the basics. The basics include things like the alphabet, how to count, shapes, colors, how to tie their shoes, ride a bike, how to write numbers and their names, how to read. There are also some foundational skills in addition to Reading and Early Math Skills that a child will need to know. These are:
- How to find and organize reliable information
- How to think and communicate clearly
- How to discern worldview
- How to make thoughtful, reasoned decisions
These are all things a parent can teach in the safety and comfort of their own home, or while they are out and about in their community. The bonus is the parent can teach these things with little to no “extra” curriculum or money. Most of these things can be learned through play and daily life experiences
Is Curriculum Necessary?
As a child gets older parents may invest in a curriculum or purchase learning tools. Again, these are all things that add to a child’s education. They aren’t always necessary. For me, having a teacher’s guide in math was essential, as I am NOT the best at teaching math…. For another parent, they may not need a manual because they are a math whiz. Some parents may be great at creating their own curriculum and unit studies. Some (like me!) may need a curriculum to help guide their child’s learning.
Homeschool parents, be encouraged, you actually NEED very little to homeschool. But, sometimes having extras is a great bonus!
Author Bio: Misty Bailey is the blogger behind Joy in the Journey and the podcaster behind Joyfully Homeschooling. Her goal in this online space is to encourage and inspire you on your homeschool journey by providing practical tips for real life homeschooling. Through real stories, real struggles, and real life, Misty encourages her blog readers and podcast listeners to embrace imperfection and strive for a more joyful homeschool.
Book Your Room Online!