Homeschooling

We are not a traditional homeschooling family. We actually have very little, if any, traditional class time or bookwork from day to day (although I own several sets of homeschooling curriculum we use here and there). Instead, we read and learn via play, reading together, investigation, or other means of learning. Many have titled our style of learning "unschooling". It has proven very effective for our three oldest ones. All three are learning to read at their own pace, have "some how" picked up math from daily tasks and playing games that require math, and science is found when questions are asked (we learned about chemical reactions while cleaning our toilets with vinegar and baking soda; and about the solar system after someone asked why the moon moves).

I encourage parents seeking to "unschool" to follow local laws of course, but to also research and really pay attention to how their child/ren learn. My kids all learn by reading (or being read to) and hands-on activities. Knowing that, I can work education into everything we do. A drive in the car is a time to do math. Cooking involves math as well. Driving can also mean sign reading or sounding out signs for them. Hockey is also a great science project, math lesson, and even reading can be involved. Work in education everywhere. I firm believe that it is our job as parents to teach our children how to learn instead of just pushing them to learn. I believe in harnessing their natural curiosity and talents so that they learn how to discover answers, research answers, and how to ask the right questions...in other words, learn how to learn. Our lifestyle is our education.