Homeschooling Dos and Don'ts

I couldn't have said it better than this mother, Jennifer Roy.  With 11 years experience in homeschooling here is her advice. 

Do s

• consistency
• give plenty of praise (even when it appears they didn't get it, find something to praise them about)
• get organized
• RELAX.. kids are so resilient
• Set realistic goals
• be willing to change
• make it fun

Don't s

• expect perfection in everything (for child or parent)
• push beyond your child's threshold for learning (this is constantly changing, so be in tune with your child)
• feel like you have to teach by the book (each child is unique and they all learn differently)
• pick out the weakness without picking out the points to praise as well
• hold your child back by requiring busy work (you'll have a frustrated child)
• get caught up in the thinking that school must be at a desk
• don't be afraid to call it a day when it's only just begun (some days we just need to play at the park or read books at the library)
• give in to those thoughts of failure, you're doing something WONDERFUL!

If you are are new to the homeschooling adventure keep these in mind when you have those days when you wonder if it's worth it.  Even seasoned homeschoolers need to step back and re-evaluate every once in while.

My Do:  Believe in yourself!

My Don't:  Think it is not worth it!