Getting Started
Getting Started
Chapter 15
Chapter 15
Chapter 16
Chapter 16
Resources and Tools
Ready-Made Homeschooling Options
DFY (Done For You)
DFY stands for "Done For You." This option is for parents who want a ready-made homeschooling curriculum without any hassle. Many companies offer complete homeschooling packages that include lesson plans, textbooks, and even online resources. Some of the popular ones include Calvert Homeschool, Oak Meadow, and Time4Learning.
The advantage of DFY is that you don't have to worry about planning and preparing lessons. Everything is already laid out for you. You can also be sure that the curriculum meets state standards. However, DFY can be expensive, and you may have little control over what your child learns.
DIY (Do It Yourself)
DIY stands for "Do It Yourself." This option is for parents who want complete control over their child's education. You can create your curriculum, lesson plans, and teaching materials. You can tailor your child's education to match their interests and strengths.
The advantage of DIY is that you have complete control and flexibility. You can also save money by using free online resources. However, DIY can be time-consuming and requires a lot of preparation. You also need to make sure that your child's education meets state standards.
DWY (Done With You)
DWY stands for "Done With You." This option is for parents who want some guidance but still want to be involved in their child's education. You can use a hybrid approach, where you combine pre-made curriculums with your own ideas. For example, you can use a pre-made math curriculum but create your own lesson plans for history.
The advantage of DWY is that you have some guidance and support, but you still have control over your child's education. You can also customize your child's education to meet their needs and interests. However, DWY can be more expensive than DIY, and you need to make sure that the pre-made curriculums meet state standards.
Comprehensive Resource List
Done For You (DFY)
Math:
- Singapore Math: Offers a clear and systematic framework for teaching math concepts, focusing on problem-solving and deep understanding of materials.
- Saxon Math: Provides a step-by-step approach to math learning with incremental lessons that build on each other, emphasizing repetition and cumulative assessment.
- Abeka Math: Features a traditional math curriculum with a strong emphasis on drill and practice, covering fundamental math concepts in a structured format.
- Teaching Textbooks: Delivers math lessons through interactive software, offering automated grading and step-by-step explanations for students.
- Rod and Staff Math: Presents a solid, traditional math curriculum with a Christian perspective, focusing on fundamental concepts and skills.
English:
- All About Reading: Offers a comprehensive, phonics-based reading program designed to teach reading effectively using multisensory methods.
- Fish Tank Learning: Provides detailed lesson plans and materials focusing on reading comprehension and writing skills, aligned with common core standards.
- IXL: Delivers personalized learning in language arts with interactive questions and real-time diagnostics to adjust to student's skill levels.
- Language Smarts: Features grade-level language arts skills practice, covering grammar, vocabulary, reading, and writing.
- First Language Lessons: Utilizes classical education methods for teaching grammar and writing, with a strong emphasis on memorization and narration.
- BookShark: Delivers literature-based homeschool curriculum packages, focusing on reading comprehension and critical thinking skills.
- Rod and Staff Phonics: Presents a phonics-based approach to reading, with a focus on phonemic awareness and sound-letter correspondence.
Do It Yourself (DIY)
Math:
- Beast Math (Beast Academy): Challenges advanced students with a curriculum that focuses on problem-solving and critical thinking in math.
- Math Mammoth: Provides a mastery-oriented approach to math with a focus on conceptual understanding, suitable for homeschooling or supplemental teaching.
- The Grapes of Math: A book that introduces mathematical concepts through creative puzzles and challenges, encouraging thinking outside the box.
- Life of Fred Mathematics: Presents math concepts within the context of story-based lessons, making math engaging and relevant to real life.
- No Nonsense Algebra: Offers a straightforward approach to algebra with clear explanations, practical examples, and online video lessons for reinforcement.
English:
- Fix It Grammar: Teaches grammar and editing skills in the context of ongoing stories, encouraging students to learn grammar by correcting passages.
- Learning Language Arts Through Literature: Integrates literature with grammar, writing, and spelling, using classic books to teach language arts concepts.
- Easy Peasy: Provides a complete, free online homeschool curriculum, including language arts, with a focus on independent learning.
- Logic Of English: Combines phonics, spelling, and grammar into a unified approach, aiming to improve reading, writing, and spelling skills.
- Rooted in Language: Offers resources and strategies for teaching reading and writing, with a focus on struggling learners and those with dyslexia.
- Teach Your Monster to Read: An interactive game that helps children learn to read through phonics-based activities and engaging gameplay.
- Brave Writer: Focuses on nurturing the writer within and creating a positive writing environment, with materials that encourage creativity and self-expression.
- The Kind Kingdom: Integrates English language arts with history and geography, using literature and creative writing to explore different cultures and periods.
Done With You (DWY)
Math:
- The Good and The Beautiful Math: Combines hands-on learning with traditional math principles, aiming to connect math to the beautiful aspects of life.
- Math-U-See: Uses manipulatives to teach math concepts in a visual and tactile way, encouraging interactive learning between students and educators.
- RightStart Mathematics: Offers a visual and auditory approach to math, using games and activities to enhance understanding and enjoyment of math.
- Khan Academy: Provides a vast library of interactive math lessons, allowing students and teachers to explore and learn together through practice exercises and video tutorials.
English:
- The Good and The Beautiful Language Arts: Integrates reading, writing, grammar, and art into one curriculum, emphasizing beauty and character in literature.
It's important to note that the categorization of these resources can be somewhat fluid, as many of them can be adapted to fit different teaching styles and learning environments. For example, Khan Academy, while listed under DWY for Math due to its interactive platform, could also serve as a DFY resource with its comprehensive lesson plans and automated grading system. Similarly, resources like Life of Fred Mathematics and Teach Your Monster to Read, while primarily DIY, can also be used in a DWY manner with more involved guidance and interaction from educators or parents.
FAQs
- What is homeschooling?
Homeschooling is a form of education where parents take on the responsibility of teaching their children at home instead of sending them to a traditional school.
- Why should I homeschool my child?
There are many reasons why parents choose to homeschool their children. Some parents want to provide a more individualized education for their children, while others want to give their children a more flexible schedule. Homeschooling also allows parents to integrate their values and beliefs into their child's education.
- Is homeschooling legal in India?
Yes, homeschooling is legal in India. However, you will need to register with your state's board of education.
- Do I need to be a certified teacher to homeschool my child?
No, you do not need to be a certified teacher to homeschool your child. However, you should have a good understanding of the subjects you will be teaching.
- How do I choose a curriculum?
There are many homeschooling curricula available, and it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Look for a curriculum that fits your child's learning style and your teaching style.
- How do I teach subjects I'm not familiar with?
If you are not familiar with a subject, there are many resources available. You can use textbooks, online courses, or hire a tutor.
- How do I create a schedule?
Creating a schedule can be challenging, but it is essential to ensure your child is getting the education they need. Start by setting a routine and scheduling specific times for each subject.
- How do I socialize my child?
Homeschooled children can still socialize with peers through extracurricular activities, sports, and clubs. You can also join a homeschooling co-op in your area.
- How do I track my child's progress?
Tracking your child's progress is essential to ensure they are meeting the necessary milestones. Keep a portfolio of their work and set regular assessments.
- How do I prepare my child for college?
Homeschooled children can still attend college. Ensure your child is taking the necessary courses and prepare them for college entrance exams.
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