Encouragement for New Homeschoolers

Will you begin homeschooling this year?

I bring encouragement to new homeschoolers. But first, here are four things you need to consider when beginning homeschooling:

Your goal is to consider what an education is anyway and read about unschooling, deschooling, and learning. They’ll all give you perspective on how you homeschool no matter your approach.

So what will I share as encouragement for new homeschoolers?

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Here are 5 pieces of encouragement for a new homeschool parent:

1. You’ve Got This: Remember that you are your child’s first and most important teacher. Your dedication and love will guide them through this journey.
2. Progress Over Perfection: It’s okay if things don’t go perfectly every day. Focus on the progress your child is making and the positive moments you share.
3. Learning Everywhere: Learning happens in the most unexpected places. Embrace the joy of discovering new things together, whether it’s through a book, a nature walk, or a simple conversation.
4. Flexibility Is Key: Your homeschooling journey will evolve, and that’s okay. Be open to adjusting your approach as you learn more about your child’s needs and interests.
5. Celebrate Achievements: Take time to celebrate both big and small victories – from mastering a difficult concept to simply enjoying a productive day of learning. Each step forward is worth acknowledging.

You are embarking on a remarkable adventure that will bring you and your child closer, nurturing their curiosity and growth in ways that only homeschooling can provide. Stay positive, stay patient, and enjoy every moment of this unique experience!

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The art and science of an education.

There’s an art and science in medicine, I’ve been told. If one could type symptoms into the Google bar and spit out a diagnosis, would medical doctors be required? There’s a certain experience and constant exposure that surrounds the assessment and diagnoses in medicine that can’t be captured in the Google bar.

The same is true for the idea of an education: there’s an art and science to an education too. We could try to jam a bunch of facts into the minds of our children and hope they spit out the requested knowledge later. But I believe that education would merely be judged inadequate, adequate, above average, or excellent. What value is that?

Isn’t an education more than just cramming knowledge bits into our brains?

Encouraging new homeschool parents in a podcast episode involves providing practical insights, emotional support, and a sense of community. Here are some important things you can share:

1. Start with the Why: Begin by discussing the reasons people choose homeschooling. Share stories of successful homeschooling journeys to inspire and motivate new parents who might be feeling uncertain about their decision.
2. Realistic Expectations: Emphasize that homeschooling doesn’t need to replicate traditional schooling. Discuss the flexibility and individualization that homeschooling offers and how it allows parents to tailor education to their child’s unique needs and interests.
3. Learning Styles: Talk about the importance of understanding your child’s learning style. Explain that homeschooling allows you to adapt teaching methods to match how your child learns best, leading to more effective and enjoyable learning experiences.
4. Resources and Curriculum: Provide insights into various homeschooling resources and curricula available. Highlight that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution and encourage parents to explore different options to find what works best for their family.
5. Building a Support Network: Stress the significance of building a community of fellow homeschoolers. Mention local homeschool groups, online forums, and social media platforms where parents can connect, share experiences, and seek advice.
6. Balancing Structure and Flexibility: Discuss how to strike a balance between structured learning and allowing children to explore their interests. Explain that routines can provide stability, but flexibility is key to adapting to unexpected opportunities or challenges.
7. Learning Through Life: Share stories of how everyday experiences can become valuable learning opportunities. Explain how incorporating real-life scenarios, such as grocery shopping, cooking, or gardening, can be educational and engaging.
8. Overcoming Challenges: Address common challenges like self-doubt, time management, and balancing personal life with homeschooling. Offer strategies to tackle these challenges and remind parents that challenges are a normal part of the journey.
9. Record Progress and Celebrate Wins: Encourage parents to keep a record of their child’s progress and celebrate even the smallest victories. This can help them see how far they’ve come and boost their confidence in their homeschooling approach.
10. Self-Care: Remind parents to prioritize self-care and set boundaries. Explain that taking care of their own well-being ensures they have the energy and patience to provide the best homeschooling experience for their children.
11. Permission to Evolve: Highlight that homeschooling is a dynamic process. Explain that it’s okay to adapt, change approaches, and explore different strategies as both parents and children grow.
12. The Joy of Learning Together: Share stories of bonding moments and shared discoveries between parents and children. Highlight the unique opportunity homeschooling provides to build strong relationships while learning together.

By addressing these key points, you can provide new homeschool parents with a well-rounded perspective on the journey ahead, equipping them with both practical advice and emotional support as they embark on this rewarding adventure.

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People also ask:

• What is an education anyways?
• a Perspective Shift on the Art and Science of an Education
• Do you coach new(er) homeschoolers?
• Crafting a Simple Homeschool Vision Statement with Your Family Values
• Starting Homeschooling for 2023/2024? Your 1st Year Guide to a Successful (& Satisfying) Homeschool
• what to ask yourself to choose the best curriculum for your homeschool

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