Homeschool parents ask homeschool coaches one question more than any other: What can we do to make sure that learners are tuned-in? Even the most creative homeschool families will have days that just fall flat, but research and experience tell us that there are easy-to-apply tips that can help: A: Make it ACTIVE Sometimes learners need to move! Research on moving while learning demonstrates that exercise and movement stimulate nerve growth and have an impact on children’s ability to learn. Try to incorporate movement and physical activity into lessons. Examples include:
E: EXPLORE together Authentic, first-hand, sensory experiences like field trips engage students in learning. Fortunately, homeschool field trips involve much less advanced planning than school field trips! Focus in on learning objectives and translate them into a memorable experience. Local examples include:
I: INTEREST-Based Learning We know that learners engage better when learning is meaningful and relevant to them. Connect whatever your children are learning to their interests. We use this method more than any other! Examples from our practice include:
O: OPTIONS If what you’re doing isn’t working, there is always another way. Even with the most creative teaching approaches, most students need options that focus on learning objectives over learning mechanism. Some of our favorite ideas include:
U: UNSCHOOL it Unschooling is a popular choice for homeschoolers that involves allowing a child’s natural curiosity to drive learning. Remember that summer when your child, without prompting, dove into an amazing craft project, stack of books, or elaborate LEGO sculpture? That was unschooling! While unschooling full-time isn’t a match for every family, sometimes a subject is enough of a struggle that you have to put your relationship with your child first and take a break while you figure out a more productive approach. During these times, unschooling can be a lifesaver. Let the curriculum go and find ways to allow casual family activities intersect with learning. Let your child’s interests lead and turn on a documentary, take a hike, break out the art supplies, visit a museum, check out some library books, learn a new board game, download a language app, or embrace any other activity your child gravitates toward in their free time. Trust your child to know what they need to learn and give yourself time to figure out what homeschooling should look like for your family. For some families, unschooling might be the place you land. And sometimes Y...Understand WHY
Sometimes there a is a genuine issue that contributes to reluctance to learn. If your instincts tell you that extra support is needed, early intervention is helpful. The sooner you can identify concerns related to sensory processing, hearing, speech, vision, anxiety, or other issues, the sooner you can get your child (and you!) connected to the services and support needed. Experts in our community can share solid strategies that will help your child engage in learning. Your child’s pediatrician is a great starting point for resources and information. Homeschool Journey Guides are here to help you implement these strategies and others. Contact us for customized homeschool plans and support.
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AuthorJenny and Sara Jo help families fi nd joy and academic success in the journey of K-8 secular home education in Central Oregon and beyond. Archives
March 2021
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