Once we come to the realization that homeschooling is not simply, “doing school at home,” we find ourselves with a newfound freedom. We figure out that we can combine subjects, and our children will gain more than we realize. We understand that we don’t have to have seperate spelling, writing, or language arts programs but we can create or find a unit study that will tie it all together and our children will be better off in the long run for it. As parents, we have the freedom to learn what our children need and the freedom to figure out how to provide that for them. Some families like to go with the flow and others thrive with a schedule. Everyone views different things as important or necessary for the school day and certain states even have requirements. Here is a list of what I personally view as important and if these get done each school day, then I am content.
Bible: If we read out of the Bible, together, before we begin any other subject, then I feel like we have started on the right foot.
Read Aloud: I have a toddler, preschooler, upper elementary, and two middle schoolers. One of my favorite aspects of homeschooling is having them together at least in the morning for Bible and a read aloud. I pick a chapter book that will keep the older kids interest and allow the toddler to sit in his highchair with a quiet toy and the preschooler can quietly color. We are all together and it is always surprising to me how much the preschooler actually picks up during this time.
History/Science: I am okay with doing this only three times a week but on the days that we do them, I really feel as though we’ve accomplished something!
Math: This goes without saying. It is important to me that they practice these skills on a daily basis.
Spelling: This is important to me as well, we use Spelling Power, which is easy to use and effective.
Book Report: My older kids are always in the middle of a book report. They are either reading a book, taking notes on it, or writing a report on it. This allows for vocabulary skills, reading, writing, and research.
Computer Work: My older ones have a set amount of work that they are required to do on the computer. This frees me up to help with the younger ones and gives them a chance to be more independent in their work.
