When it comes to homeschooling , there is no single method that works for absolutely every child. If there were, the cookie-cutter model of American education would be highly successful, too.
When homeschooling, parents have the option to select the way that works best. Best for the student. Best for the parent. Best for the budget, lifestyle, educational philosophy, geographical location, available resources…well, you get the idea.
What is a homeschool method, you say? In a nutshell, it refers to the general educational model, philosophy and methods a family may follow throughout the days and years of homeschooling. Or unschooling, which some call a method in itself, though others equate unschooling to an education and parenting philosophy entirely different from traditional homeschooling.
Nevertheless, the chosen method is one which parents find they “click” with. One they are comfortable executing day after day. And one which they believe will benefit the students in the household while meeting the educational goals set forth at the beginning of the journey.
Choosing a homeschool method may sound easy. Watch what others do, then duplicate it at home, right?
Wrong. What works for one family doesn’t always work in another.
Some families like homeschooling that resembles traditional classrooms. That is the model, or homeschool method, they use at home. Others prefer to use a method that is entirely different, like Classical Education or Thomas Jefferson Education. Additionally, some parents mix up their methods and resources, while others prefer to stick with just one alone.
I often find in my work that parents tend to begin homeschooling using a single method or style, then end up relaxing it, modifying it somewhat, or switching to a different method over time. (This level of customization is the trademark of homeschooling, since it can be designed to match learning styles, personalities, and desired outcomes.)
No matter where in the United States families live, all homeschoolers have the option to select and use any method they desire. While some states dictate certain subjects that must be taught (not all states do this, but check if yours does) the method of delivery — the homeschooling “method” – is up to each individual family.
Careful research into each method is recommend at first. Reviewing other approaches over the course of homeschooling may be beneficial, too.
These posts may help parents get an initial feel for what every general approach entails. Using the links provided in each article, be sure to learn more before making a final selection. And always remember, nothing in homeschooling is ever set in stone — changes are not only possible along the journey, but desired, if a chosen method is not having the expected results.
Start here to learn more about some of the most popular homeschooling methods:
…and these:
Other posts you might like:
Required or learning ‘a la carte’
Parents don’t know everything. In homeschool, that’s OK
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