I love this statue. It is in the park a couple blocks from my house. The togetherness, the hope, the determination – it’s all there! It’s like they know they know the new life they are about to embrace will not be easy but they are ready nonetheless. They are facing a new adventure, heading for a new land. They are pioneers.
Maybe you can relate. Maybe you are ready to start a new adventure yourself, but instead of loading a covered wagon, you’re loading up on new curriculum. Instead of mapping your route over a new land, you’re mapping out a schedule and structure for your new way of life. You’re just starting out on this homeschool adventure and you’re feeling just like those pioneers – hopeful, determined, and maybe a little scared!
Here are a few helpful hints, Dear Pioneer:
Know who’s in your wagon train. Thankfully you won’t be alone on your journey! You have people all around you ready to help and support you on your adventure. Friends who homeschool can offer great encouragement and camaraderie as you navigate the peaks and valleys together. In most locations there are various types of homeschool co-ops. These range from informal groups of homeschool families who get together for social outings to groups formed for instructional purposes. You can find a list of homeschool co-ops at www.homeschoolfacts.com. And while it may sound counterintuitive, your local public school district liaison is an important person to your homeschool endeavors. Besides informing you of district expectations for homeschoolers, a liaison can help you should you require special needs testing and services. Finally, there are a number of online groups and websites devoted to the homeschool community. Sites such as www.homeschoolfacts.com, www.homeschoolcompanion.com, www.homeschool.com, offer a wealth of information and resources. Also, you may find it reassuring to call Homeschool Legal Defense Association (www.hslda.org) a member of your team. HSLDA exists to provide legal information and support to homeschool families.
Scout out the territory. There are plenty of great opportunities for homeschool students in your local community. Look for local organizations to partner with you and other homeschooling families by providing educational experiences (field trip to the fire house) or community service opportunities (work day at a local soup kitchen). Your local library may provide resources that would enrich your homeschool curriculum. Some libraries even offer programs and events specific to homeschoolers. And there are music lessons, sports teams, and many learning opportunities in every community. Because of the internet, the whole world is part of our learning territory! Online learning can be a vital part of your homeschool experience. Whether taking a course or two from a provider like Global Student Network (www.globalstudentnetwork.com) or enrolling in a virtual learning academy (like www.internationalvla.com), the web is a great resource. Knowing “what’s out there” can help make your homeschool adventure the best it can be.
Listen to the “old timers.” When the wagons circle up at night, there is always at least one “old timer” around the fire, telling of battles fought, dangers overcome, and beautiful sights seen. And while I would NOT describe them in any way as “old,” here is some advice from seasoned homeschoolers:
“Don’t think that you have to be like a ‘school’ and have a very regimented day! Relax and enjoy your first year, learning and exploring what methods work best for your family.” – Amanda M.
“Organization is the key, then scheduling.” – Denise S.
“There is no right or wrong way to educate your children from home. Whatever works for the parents and children is going to be what’s best for you and them. Don’t think you have to look like any other homeschool family, don’t compare your kids or yourself and don’t change your beliefs or reasons just to ‘fit in.’ That’s the great thinking about home educating- individuality!” – Terrilyn H.
”Some of the wisest words ever spoken to me were ‘not all public schools are bad, not all private schools are good, and this (homeschooling) is not a perfect solution.’ I (We) felt a definite calling. Without that calling, I would have quit many days had Scott [husband] not been equally for it. When those days came, he quietly refused my resignation.” – Julie B.
“Remember homeschool isn’t the same as school at home, there are lots of things schools do because of logistics and numbers that homeschools don’t have to do. There are many ways, other than tests, for students to demonstrate mastery over content. Have a plan but don’t be a slave to your plan leave lots of open spaces in your schedule for things that come up. Take time to figure out what works for your unique family/children.” – Beth A.
While it’s a new adventure for you, there are many who have traversed these trails. There is wisdom to be gleaned from those who have gone before!
So, Dear Pioneer, take things one day at a time. On the difficult days, pause to remind yourself why you chose this journey and celebrate how far you’ve come! And be thankful you can enjoy the greatest adventure with those you love best. Homeschool HO!!
Copyright © 2013 J. Hoffman / GSN (NV)
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Email: JHoffman@GlobalStudentNetwork.com