Guest Author - Meg Grooms

When experienced homeschooling families are asked which year is the most difficult, parents and children often answer alike - the first year! Why is the first year so difficult? How can one be best prepared to face the challenges of first-year homeschooling?

When a family decides to homeschool they are often faced with the uncertainties of extended family, neighbors, and even strangers. To make their situation even more difficult, these families are often bucking the only system they know, the institution of public education. It is very hard to convince the skeptics that government schools aren’t the right choice for every family, so don’t try. When faced with questions such as “Why aren’t your kids in school?” or comments like “Kids need to socialize”, have a concise, polite, and unchallenging answer prepared. It’s very tempting to fire back sarcastically, but life is much easier if you hold your tongue. When you meet a person unfamiliar with homeschooling, remember that like it or not, you and your children are representing the movement as a whole.

One of the first areas of confusion will be in the area of curricula. What should I teach when? How do I teach this subject? Where do I find the resources? The very first thing you want to do is to get your hands on a good (the operative word here is good) scope and sequence. You can find various S&S through the internet, books, and even your local school district. Obtain an S&S for your child’s previous, current, and future grade levels. Compare them to your child’s current knowledge base and go from there.

Below I have listed some additional techniques to help prepare yourself for your first year!

-It is never too early to start your research, even if your children are infants.
-Research learning styles through books and the internet. Learn how to tailor your teaching style to meet your child’s needs.
-Always preview curricula before buying. Don’t be afraid to shelf what doesn’t work so well for your family.
-Don’t try to compare yourself or your children to other families. Be yourself and let your children learn at their own pace. Never force your children or you risk squashing their motivation and drive.
-Schedule time off every few weeks.
-Don’t over-educationalize every activity. Sometime it’s fun to go to the zoo just to go to the zoo.
-Remember that you are more than a parent and educator. Maintain your own identity and foster your own interests.
-Don’t be so ambitious that you overlook the small things.
-Don’t get caught-up with grade level designations. Let your children blossom naturally.
-Most importantly, have fun and enjoy watching your children grow.