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Homeschool
Where to Begin
Take time if you can. I suggest trying to plan ahead if possible, like the spring or summer before to spend time doing the following:
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Breathe. Snuggle. Toast a cup of tea.
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Embrace your freedom as a homeschooler! to do "school" a million different ways - you are free to find YOUR way!
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Hang out with other homeschool families that are enjoying their experience to get inspired. BUT, also remind yourself that your journey does not need to look any which way, look like anyone else's or produce the same results as anyone else. Homeschooling is truly choosing the path you see fit for your child, adapting and flowing as you feel your way through it, and having fun learning with your child! Don't judge others' journeys. Pictured to the right are my two youngest girls. One is eclectically homeschooling and one is in a full-time classical school. They couldn't be more opposite of learning experiences, but they are both very happy in their chosen environments. I happily support them both!
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Come visit one of our events to meet other homeschool parents, go "shopping" in the resource fair to see all of the local education resources, and get excited... together!
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We also have a big library of homeschool resources (huge actually, so narrow your search by things that matter to you like location, approach, or grade levels)
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Investigate different style of homeschooling and imagine yourself using any of them to see it they fit. Here is a FANTASTIC video on homeschooling approaches.
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Investigate options for curriculum. There are a million (literally) options and it can be overwhelming. Skip to our Curriculum page for some guidance on this topic.
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Test out your ideas and educational tools on your kiddo. Give them the opportunity to choose for themselves what they like! Have fun getting to know your child in this new way and if something feels like you are pulling teeth to get them to do it, throw it out! There are plenty of other ways. Here is a great article on learning styles in homeschooling.
(stepping off my soap box now, LOL). I have blogged about my personal homeschool journey this year (see below).
We don't always have time to plan ahead. Life happens and sometimes we are shoved into homeschooling by unforeseen circumstances. Don't worry, friend. We are here for you. Fill out a contact form or give us a call anytime. We will do our best to support you.
I couldn't have said it better myself!
(So, I didn't - here is a great video intro to homeschooling. Her journey is faith-based, but a great intro for secular as well.)
My Homeschool Journey Blog
Harbor and Sprout - Unit Studies
Harbor + Sprout Elementary Unit Studies are created for children aged 3-12. Each lesson is family-style and allows for each of your children to complete the same lessons in different ways specifically tailored to their needs. Lesson plans are divided into 4 distinct learning levels which allow you to simplify or expand upon lessons for each child as you see fit. Units are delivered as digital downloads to allow you to save, keep, print, and use for your own family or classroom's use for years to come. Discover the joy of "kitchen table learning" as you all experience the joy of learning- together!
Homeschool Connection (Medford School District)
Supporting Parents as Lead Teachers: Are you currently homeschooling or considering homeschooling your child? MSD Homeschool Connection offers resources to support families who prefer a homeschool experience. With flexibility, personalized learning, and community engagement at its core, this program empowers parents to take the lead in their child's education.
Heritage History
The Heritage Classical Curriculum is a free, versatile study program based on traditional, public-domain student histories. It combines the best 'story-based' histories of the past with helpful study aids, interactive quiz games, and a timeless "living books" learning philosophy. It is an excellent resource for homeschoolers, independent learners, or curious dabblers.
Home School Legal Defense Association HSLDA
Answers to commonly asked questions in regards to homeschooling, especially regarding legal issues, state by state requirements, and how homeschool effects college, military and workforce options after high school. They also advocate for the legal rights of homeschooled kids. $0.35/day membership that gives families access to legal advice and assistance. recommended by My Father's World - he suggests asking all families in a micro-school to have a membership
Homeschool Dance Connection
Dances for homeschool tweens and teens in Grants Pass. Three dances each year, all open to high school students, one open to students ages 12+ for most, 14+ for prom. Students of small schools without their own dances are welcome. See FAQ's for info about +1's, music, security, etc.