Homeschooling is a journey that requires planning, research, and a deep understanding of your children’s needs. In a recent episode of the “Joy at Home” podcast, Katie and Dori, two experienced homeschooling moms (and sisters!), shared their process for selecting the right curriculum for their families. This blog post will delve into the main themes of their discussion, providing valuable, detailed information to guide you in choosing the best homeschool curriculum for your children.
Setting Priorities for Your Homeschool Curriculum
Dori’s Approach
Dori emphasizes the importance of setting clear priorities before diving into curriculum research. Here are her key priorities:
- Open-and-Go Curriculum: Dori prefers materials that are easy to use and require minimal preparation.
- Biblically Sound Material: Ensuring that the curriculum aligns with her family’s faith is crucial.
- Multi-Age Usability: She looks for resources that can be used across different age levels to streamline teaching.
Katie’s Approach
Katie, on the other hand, takes a more extensive research approach:
- Diverse Homeschooling Styles: She considers various homeschooling styles to find the best fit for her family.
- Homeschool Conventions: Attending these events provides her with firsthand insights and access to a wide range of resources.
- Pro and Con Videos: Watching reviews on YouTube helps her make informed decisions.
Researching Curriculum Options
Dori’s Research
Dori explored several curriculum options, including:
- My Father’s World
- Sonlight
- Master Books
- Gather ‘Round
- The Good and the Beautiful
After thorough research, she chose:
- The Good and the Beautiful for language arts and math.
- Master Books for history and science.
Katie’s Research
Katie shares her enthusiasm for specific programs:
- All About Reading: A comprehensive reading program that she finds effective.
- Language Lessons for a Living Education: A curriculum that integrates language arts with a biblical worldview.
Flexibility and Adaptability
Both Katie and Dori stress the importance of flexibility in homeschooling. They highlight that it’s okay to change the curriculum based on your family’s needs and the season of life. This adaptability ensures that the learning experience remains engaging and effective for your children.
Engaging Learning Methods
Notebook Approach
Katie shares her innovative approach to teaching history using notebooks instead of traditional worksheets. This method allows children to draw and narrate their lessons, making the learning experience more engaging and memorable. Dorie admires this approach and values the keepsake aspect of the notebooks.
Hands-On Learning
Both moms emphasize the importance of hands-on learning and the use of manipulatives, especially in subjects like math. This approach helps children grasp complex concepts more easily and makes learning fun.
Organization and Planning
Record Keeping
Katie and Dori discuss their methods for organizing and planning their homeschool curriculum:
- Notebooks for Attendance and Grades: Keeping detailed records helps track progress and ensures compliance with homeschooling regulations.
- Clear Plastic Bins and Bookshelves: These storage solutions keep materials organized and easily accessible.
Individualized Stacks
They also talk about creating individualized stacks for each child, including preschool materials for younger children. This personalized approach ensures that each child’s unique needs are met.
Morning Menu
Using a morning menu for memory work and other activities helps structure the day and keeps children engaged from the start.
Specific Curriculum Recommendations
Language Arts and Math
- The Good and the Beautiful: Dori’s choice for its comprehensive and biblically sound content.
- All About Reading: Katie’s favorite for its effectiveness in teaching reading.
History and Science
- Master Books: Chosen by Dori for its engaging and faith-based content.
Writing and Poetry
- University Ready Writing: Katie is excited about this new program for her high school-aged daughter.
- The Art of Poetry: A poetry study book that Katie finds enriching.
Creating a Homeschooling Space
Katie and Dori discuss the importance of having a designated space for homeschooling. This space should be organized and conducive to learning. They also mention using motivational jars and gold star stickers to encourage and reward their children’s progress.
Grab a seat inside Katie’s Free Class: Homeschool 101 “Making it So Easy that ANY Mom Can Get Started”
Katie and Dori’s discussion provides a wealth of insights into choosing and organizing homeschool curriculum. By setting clear priorities, conducting thorough research, and remaining flexible, you can create a homeschooling experience that is both effective and enjoyable for your children. Remember to incorporate engaging learning methods and maintain an organized space to foster a positive learning environment.
For more homeschooling tips and discussions, connect with Katie and Dori on social media and stay tuned for future episodes of “Joy at Home.”
