I think it’s safe to assume your reaction would be one of those above…with the foundation of all of your questions being, “why??,” I’ll tell you why. Now when people ask “why”, I can just say, “refer to my blog.” That will save me loads of time. 🙂
1. My kids want to – And, it’s not because they think they’re getting off the hook to do hard work. They sincerely enjoy doing family things. They crave family nights, movie night, vacations, dates with their parents, cooking together, reading together, playing family games, etc. They have seen homeschool in action and can’t wait to get it started!
K12 – I have a friend who LOVES k12 for her kids…she is actually the one who helped me get this homeschool thought turned into a reality. (Thanks, Laurie!) After observing her family in school, having my kids observe them, and asking lots of questions, we decided to take the leap. K12 is an online public school, federally funded. You sign up, they send you everything you need for the year, and you’re on your way! There is an assigned teacher that you communicate with for help and support. The kids check into their classes online but still lots of the work is to be done off the computer. The curriculum gets rave reviews and is separated into lessons…so, you know JUST what your child needs to do and how to teach it. We are going to be doing k12 for History, English, and Spanish. Everything else…I’ve chosen to use something else. That’s one of the great things about k12 too is that you don’t HAVE to take all of their subjects. Obviously, if you choose to do the others on your own, you will need to buy the supplies. Not every state has a k12 program and a brick & mortar school typically sponsors it. Although I live no where near Washington County, I have chosen to join their Utah k12 program…Washington Online. I’m also excited that they are letting my kids take the same history class, even though they are in different grades…that’s great because they can learn together and I only have to prepare one lesson!* Update 6/12 – k12 was good for my first year, but there were several reasons it didn’t work for me. The second year I used Sonlight and liked it much better…except for a few things. This third year, I’ll stop using Sonlight, venture off and do some of the subjects (history, English, reading) on my own.
Music – I’m thinking this year we will start with the basics of musical instruments and classical music. I found the cutest books to introduce different composers to the kids, called Getting to Know the World’s Greatest Composers. I also want to find a CD for each of the composer to play during school to get the kids familiar with the styles. Maybe one year we’ll learn about folk music, the blues, the 60s, 70s, 80s, etc.! Fun! Eh, I think I might skip right over rap and whatever category Marilyn Manson falls into. 🙂
* Update 6/12 – I decided not to do art, music, and nature every year. We focus on the main subjects and choose one fun subject to study in the year. This last year we studied art and famous artists. Next year, we may do music. We try to use the summertime to do nature studies. It makes for a more realistic schedule, more in-depth study, and less stress.
So, wish me luck! I’ll keep you updated on our successes (and failures) 🙂
Nicole says
Looks great! And, thanks for the link back to my previous post. I am sure we’ll be in touch while on this new adventure together! 🙂
Lynn from For Love or Funny says
I think homeschooling is wonderful. Best wishes!!
suburban hippie mama says
Good luck to you Mariel! I think it’s great that you re homeschooling. It is something that I have seriously considered myself. When buying our first home we really looked at the school districts and purchased our home according. The problem is that even in the “good schools with lots of money and opportunity” there is just that. Kids with lots of money. My son is only in kindergaden and is asking for an iphone…really?! And telling me walmart clothes aren’t “cool”!! As a mother this is very disturbing.
My favorite line is “If you choose to be offended, have fun with that.” LOL!!
Fun On a Dime Lady says
Thanks! I’ve been thinking about this since my son was born. My kids aren’t old enough for school, yet, but this gives me a jump start on classes. I’m still debating because my son is a very busy boy and seems to do better with others teaching him, I’m just afraid he is so busy that he would be the “problem child” and looked down on. But I also have relatives that are home schooled and “are odd.”
What are the ages of your children?
Jen says
Thank you so much on your post! My oldest is only 2 years old but my husband and I are already worried about how things are going in our public schools, and where they’ll be by the time she reaches school age!
You have done so much research and you have really helped me understand more about homeschooling. Already we are leaning towards it for the same concerns of public school that you have. Thank you so so much! I can’t tell you how much I loved this post.
Oh yeah… GOOD LUCK! I can’t wait to hear more on how it’s going for you!
Josh and Kassi Nelson says
Hey!
Thank you so much for your post. My husband and I do not even have children yet, but we are both highly considering home-schooling for many of the same reasons you have posted.
We have many concerns about our public schools and have decided to at least home-school until high school. I want to give my kids their educational foundation.
You make it sound so easy, I know that it wont always be but I have looked into it a little bit and found that there are many support groups out there, also you can tag teach with other parents if you choose.
But as others have said I can show your post to some family members that think the idea is cooky and maybe earn a little bit more respect.
Thanks again!
Nathan and Shanna says
Good Luck and keep us posted on how it goes for you. I have had the feeling that I need to home school some of my children.
The Smeds says
From a homeschool mom of 18+ years, GO FOR IT! Be patient, and don’t be tempted to let others judge the end from the middle (and don’t you do it, either! :D). Looking back, we’ve had our share of days that we wished had been better, but it’s like a tapestry… knots are part of the beauty. Our priority was character first, knowledge second, and it has paid in spades. On the whole, we have great memories of lots and lots of activities together, and lots and lots of love and friendship. It’s been a wonderful journey, and one with lots still to come. Good luck, and feel free to visit my blog about our homeschooling family at thesmeds.blogspot.com
Chaney says
Good Luck! I love the K12 Curriculum. My son used it this year and I was very impressed.
Lindsay says
This is a great post! My son will start kindergarten next year and he’ll be going to our local school. We have a good school district, but I’ve always been leery of the public school system. I’m worried it won’t challenge and I’m concerned about the things he’ll learn there. Also, like you, I think I’m going to really miss my kids while they’re in school. I’m dreading kindergarten, actually! Homeschooling is always at the back of my mind, so if I consider it more seriously, I will definitely refer back to this post!
handbags*n*pigtails says
I love this post. My hubby and I grew up in the public school system and he is a full time tenured teacher now in a public school. Even though its considered the most conservative school around, we’re shocked at the things kids are not only learning but also the kids in the classes. Its very easy even for the good kids to get sidetracked. As a matter of fact, my husband gained his teaching position b/c the school had to fire the previous teacher for having a “relationship” we”ll call it, with a female student. AGH! Are you kidding me? Its so sad.
Our oldest daughter, whos 6, attends the private Christian school at our church. Our youngest who graduates from a Christian preK next month will be homeschooled by me this next year b/c our school is too small right now and she’d be the only kindergartener there. After next year she’ll be enrolled in the school and although I thought Id be terrified to homeschool her I have a real peace about it. When its right, its right.
We just ordered all her curriculum yesterday through Abeka and even got a first time student discount!Woohoo for money off:)
As you said, this is a very controversial issue. Sad to say but it is so. But each family isnt the same and should pray for the wisdom to make the right decisions for their family. I even know families who homeschool one or two kids and have others in Christian or public school. Each child is different and will learn differently.
Boy Ive rambled on long enough. But Im glad you posted about this. Have a wonderufl year next year! Lets pray each other through,LOL!
Sarah
HandbagsnPigtails.blogspot.com
Marie says
Good luck!!
Kristi says
We decided to home school our 14yo (8th grade) this year. It was an idea we kicked around last year when he was struggling with EVERYTHING (academics & social). He’s a bright kid and a little shy, big for his age and surprisingly bullied. His first day of 8th grade he came home crying. Not good. Fortunately our school district implemented their own on-line academy this year so we have connection with other local students, the principal & counselors. Now he’s happy, productive, and his self-esteem is really boosting. Our program is self-driven as I work away from the home and he’s carrying a B+ average. LOVE on-line school!!
Kristin says
Thank you soooo much for this post. I was directed here by a friend after she heard I was looking into homeschooling my daughter next year for 3rd grade.
Thanks for the curriculum references too, as I’m trying to get everything together now, so I’m ready come September.
Thanks again!
Kate says
I’m not sure you are socially normal enough…. actually who knows, I’ve never met you! I have absolutely no plans to home school, and something pretty major would have to happen to get me to choose it, but I do like doing a lot of home learning kinds of things with my kids. I hope you’ll share stuff that works for you here and there, and let us know how the curriculum all works out for you. Good luck!! 🙂 Kate
Jocelyn Christensen says
Ha, I’m laughing right now, because I read the whole post and THEN saw your name at the end and thought “THAT’S MARIEL???” I’m excited for you…and have been bouncing around the idea myself. Looking forward to hearing about your journey…please more posts!
Kim says
Thanks for this post! My oldest is only three, but I’m heavily researching homeschooling right now. I love the mix of info on your blog, and I’ll be excited to see how the homeschooling goes.
Cindy Quick says
http://www.k12.com/utva/
I don’t know if you want to do it charter school style – but you can sign up for the k12 through a charter school too.
natalie says
While I have nightmares about my own homeschooling experience, I have wonderful memories of playing all day with you and your brothers in the woods and on the trampoline. That was so fun! I know you will do a phenomenal job with your kids, and I can’t wait to hear how it goes!
Holly says
Thanks for this post! My oldest kiddos (twins) are only three, but we are planning on giving homeschool a go ourselves. Always great to hear input and thoughts from others who are “crazy” enough to take it on. Will be reading your future posts with great interest. 🙂
Jami Balmet says
Oh what an exciting decision!!! My husband and I really want to homeschool (Lord willing) and i always love seeing the curriculums that others use! And ooh those Value Tales Books bring back so many memories! i had that whole collection when I was a child too! I’ll have to look into re-getting them all 😉
Good luck! I’m sure you will love homeschooling!!!! 😀
Heather Natzmyrelnam says
I started homeschooling this year and I have a 2nd grader and 1st grader, a Big K and a Pre k. Plus a very active 1 year old. I am pretty sure most of my friends and family thought I lost my mind. AND I have….But in such a good way. I am not going to say that everything is great and that I don’t have my days that I want to throw in the towel and say I am done. But the good out ways the bad. I think your post was great and what you are doing will be great. But take it one day at a time. I, like you had big plans, but I found that I may have had a few unreal expectations. Now I take everything one day at a time. If I don’t get done exactly what I wanted. I roll with it and do it the next day. Some days all I get done is language, phonics and math. I am good with that. There are days that things run smooth and we do something extra, Science, history, (my kids take piano lessons) or art. I am doing k12 and I think it is a great 1st year tool. I am a very organized person I tried to do this and that and I tried other programs. K12 has been so nice because its all right there! It has really helped my first year run a bit smoother. BTW, I love the k12 history. The Kindergarten History is so much fun! My kids love it, and I love it! History days are our funniest days! Plus, I am doing it with all of my kids. OK what I am trying to say is take it one year at a time. Start off with less and add if it fits. Don’t overwhelm yourself! This is my first year, and I learned the hard way! I learned quickly to take other parents advice. I am not a “seasoned home school-er”, But I have learned so much in the last year (I even leaned that the Netherlands is also called Holland, who knew?:)
I plan on, in the future adding my own curriculum. But k12 has been great to give me the positive 2nd 1st start I needed! You’ll do great!
Heather Natzmyrelnam says
I just re-read my comment. AND I promise that I can spell and I do know how to correctly speak and write proper English. But I have a 1 year old on my lap that needs a nap and no longer wants to “help Mommy”. AND BTW Mariel, homeschooling makes you paranoid….
Mariel says
Thanks, ladies! It’s fun to read all your comments and advice…keep it coming!
By the way, someone asked the ages of my kids…the two I will homeschool this year are my almost 6 year old and almost 9 year old. So, I have four kids: 8, 5, 3, and 1 1/2…and one on the way.
Nicole says
Mariel .. I would love for Kristi, the commenter who homeschooled her 8th grader for the first time, to contact me (if she would). That’s the same age as my son, and I would love to be able to gain some wisdom from her.
Thanks!
Nicole
SarahAnne says
Amen, sister! I could have written that exact post, minus all the information on curriculum because I am still deciding all of that. My head is swimming most of the time, but I am so excited. I have received a few negative comments lately, mostly out of concern for me, but when it’s right, it’s right! Yay for us following our instincts and heavenly guidance. ;o) Good luck to you!
Rebecca says
Thanks for all the info. I’ve been feeling more and more like this is the route I want to go when Ailia gets to be school aged. You’re such an amazing mom, woman, etc. that I’m sure it will be a huge success! Good luck.
Suze says
Thanks for the post Mariel.
I “homeschool” aswell. Although with a 4 & a 5 yr old, it’s more like “let’s just do whatever we want-school”.
Thanks for all the tips on curriculum. I haven’t gotten that far yet.
jane deere says
Thanks, Mariel!
I am stepping out into the homeschool arena this fall too! I’m super excited, a little nervous, but above all, glad that I’m giving it a try. My kids asked for it too.
Thank you for the information…I’ll be looking into your chosen books and curriculum!
erin d. says
Good Luck! Our oldest kiddo is 15 months but already we have been talking about homeschooling and the thought of it scared me to death and overwhelms me! But it is something I feel could really benefit our family as well please do keep us posted on how your homeschooling journey goes..
Emili says
I’ve been debating the thought of homeschooling for LONGER THAN I’VE HAD KIDS! It always seemed so far away – but my 5 year old is enrolled in kindergarten and they want to know for sure by FRIDAY! ARGH! But I just keep feeling like its not the right route (school that is) so I think I’m going to give it a go and try homeschooling. You think its so far away when you have little kids, but then WHAM, it sneaks right up on you!
Amy J says
Well, being a “forever” home school Mom (10+ years and oldest is 14), you’ve covered all my reasons for homeschooling (except I wasn’t homeschooled myself). Yes, there are days when things get rough, but I would NOT change it for anything. My 14yo is definitely in those trying teen years, and I’m SO thankful that he’s around me every day, all day, so that I get to enjoy the good moments too, not just the bad ones. ENJOY IT!!
Serene is my name, not my life! says
I know this is an older post, but I just wanted to say, I was homeschooled from fourth grade through high school, and I loved it.
I think I turned out rather swell! 😀
Liz says
Thanks for sharing this with me, Mariel! It’s obvious that you put a lot of thought, time, and effort into this post. I love it and agree with all your reasons for homeschooling! Thanks for commenting on mine!
Nat says
I love this post on homeschooling. I have been doing the like with my 3 children, and the oldest for 4 years now. I love it and couldn’t agree more with your enthusiasm! I am going to write up my own list similar to this and refer people to my blog too! Way helpful, you are beautiful and an inspiration! 🙂