As a homeschool parent, you go above and beyond to make sure your student is receiving a well-rounded education that excites and inspires them to learn. One of the greatest benefits of homeschooling is the ability to choose our own curriculums, but sometimes finding the right one for your students can be tricky.
As you begin your search and start planning for a new year of teaching, here are our tips for finding a curriculum that works for the entire family:
Step 1: Determine your child’s needs
The first, most important thing you can do is to start a talk about curriculum with the children you’ll be homeschooling. What wasn’t working through traditional outlets, and in what ways do they think they learn best? You want to find a curriculum that will meet their needs and make them excited about their lessons each day.
Step 2: Set goals and priorities for the year
Now it’s time to set your own goals for the year, everything from determining the layout and schedule of your classes to planning trips and other creative lessons. Start by making your list of priorities that must be accomplished throughout the year, and then fill the extra space with subjects and lessons that you think will be beneficial and fun for your students. The more you’ve planned in this stage, the more likely you are to find a curriculum that provides what you need.
Step 3: Explore multiple options
You don’t have to settle for this first curriculum you find. When you’re making this choice, it’s important to be thorough and consider a variety of options. Pick your top three and discuss them with your family to find a choice that will be beneficial for everyone.
Step 4: Reach out to other homeschool families
Before you make your decision, reach out to other homeschool families in your network to see which curriculums they’ve chosen. Hearing from other families who have gone through the same process before will help take some of the trial-and-error out of choosing your curriculum, letting you skip some of the simple mistakes by hearing what has or hasn’t worked for other families.
Step 5: Seek professional advice
If you still have questions or are looking for guidance, there are professional outlets designed to provide guidance to parents and students as they work through the homeschooling process. The South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools has offered expert advice and academic planning for homeschool families for the last 30 years. We know just how much quality, well-rounded education can impact a child, and we can help you discover the best path for your student. Reach out today!