Homeschooling with Heart: Building Strong Family Bonds
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Welcome to my homeschool village! I'm Becky, and I've been on this homeschooling adventure for 20 years. With five children in tow, I'm here to offer guidance, answer your homeschooling questions, and share some insights from my experience. Whether you're a seasoned homeschooler or just starting out, let's embark on this journey together.
As I sit at my desk, one hand petting a dog, I can't help but reflect on how homeschooling has evolved in my life. My kids are growing up, becoming more independent, and needing me less. It's bittersweet, really. Hi, Megan! Come on in and join the conversation. I want to emphasize that homeschooling isn't just about telling you how to do it; it's also about supporting you through the struggles. Trust me, homeschooling is no walk in the park. I've been through it all - homeschooling babies, middle kids, and high schoolers. I even have adult children now - one married and another working as a missionary in Peru. My teenager is about to graduate, and I still have two more at home. So, I've got a pretty good grasp of what you might be going through at any stage of your homeschool journey.
Whether you're seeking advice on engaging your teenagers or dealing with kids who resist learning, I've got tips and solutions to share. So, feel free to ask questions and share your challenges. Throughout my homeschooling journey, I've experienced it all - from homeschooling in multiple states to trying various approaches, including public school, charter schools, and co-ops. I've seen it all, so don't hesitate to seek assistance or guidance on any aspect of homeschooling. Join the conversation and let's dive into the world of homeschooling together!
One of the most heart-wrenching questions I've encountered as a homeschool mom is, "How do you handle your kids around you all day?" To me, that question highlights the misconception that being around your children constantly is a burden. In reality, having my kids around me all day has been a blessing. It has fostered strong family bonds, making my teenagers and adult children my best friends. Our family always comes first, and this has been the most significant benefit of homeschooling. As the evening settles in and the kids are in bed, it's time to relax and scroll through some well-deserved downtime.
Here's a homeschool hint that's not just for homeschooling but for all parents: consider encouraging your children to read. My mother used to put us to bed early but allowed us to read or sleep with a light by our beds. This practice cultivated a love for reading in all of us, and it's a tradition we continue with our own kids. Early bedtimes with a good book can work wonders.
Now, for those of you with preschool-aged children, keeping them occupied without resorting to excessive screen time can be a challenge. Here's a tip I picked up at a homeschool conference 15 years ago - hide the toys! Instead of having all the toys out all the time, organize them into different boxes. Each day, pull out a different box and let your children play with the contents. When they're done, they put everything back in the box, and you store it away until the next time. This approach keeps their minds and hands engaged for longer periods, maintains a cleaner house, and preserves your sanity.
Remember, it's not your responsibility to constantly entertain your children. Boredom can spark innovation, creativity, and intelligence. So, offer a variety of activities in moderation and let your children explore and learn on their own. Your role is to guide, not to micromanage.
Now, let's talk about homeschooling and screen time. While I'm not against screen time when used wisely, finding quality educational content can be challenging. One app I highly recommend is "Living Scriptures." This app offers Christian-based content and a homeschool section filled with educational videos and cartoons. It's a safe and reliable resource that I've used with my own kids during sick days or when I needed a break. Plus, it helps ensure they're watching age-appropriate material.
Speaking of screen time, I've often heard parents ask how to handle their kids spending all day around them. In my experience, having your children around you throughout the day can be a beautiful opportunity to strengthen your family bonds. Remember, family is permanent, and nurturing those relationships is one of the greatest benefits of homeschooling.
Now, back to the topic of helping children read. It's important to understand that there's no specific age at which every child should start reading. Each child develops at their own pace. Don't push reading on them if they're not ready. Instead, focus on instilling a love for stories by reading to them regularly. When they're ready, they'll naturally show an interest in reading on their own.
It's important to remember that homeschooling doesn't mean you have to do everything alone. Reach out to local homeschool groups, online forums, and co-ops to connect with other homeschooling families. Sharing experiences, resources, and advice can be a lifesaver on this journey. Community is key!
As we wrap up today's discussion, I want to leave you with a piece of advice that's been invaluable to me as a homeschool mom - be flexible and open-minded. Your homeschool journey will have twists and turns, ups and downs, and no two days will look exactly alike. Embrace the flexibility homeschooling offers and be open to adapting your methods and curriculum to suit your child's needs. Thank you all for joining me today.
Remember, you're not alone on this homeschooling journey, and I'm here to support you every step of the way. Feel free to ask questions, share your experiences, and connect with other homeschooling parents. Together, we can create an inspiring and enriching learning environment for our children.
Happy homeschooling!
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