I am a second generation homeschooler. The most effective thing my mom did was follow her own passions. I saw what it meant to be a life long learner. I saw what it meant to be passionate about many things. I saw how to fit those pursuits into the busy day of a mother. She still has stacks of books on her nightstand and is always telling me about what she’s reading and doing. Now I try to do the same for my children. If we want our children to become lovers of truth, beauty, and goodness- we have to do the same. Sit down to the piano ourselves, learn another language too, read a great book in the tub.
I love this! I always feel bad because I try I cooperating things in our homeschool that I’m passionate about or things I wish I had more time to learn when I was in school. I never thought about it this way. Thank you for sharing!
This video is on point. We've been homeschooling for 7 years. I taught our kids to tell people, "I'm not here for that," when people try to quiz them. Also, the whole idea that homeschooled kids don't have friends or a social life is so absurd, but people make that presumption all the time.
Great tips! A fun thing we’ve incorporated is movie Monday. We watch an educational movie (most the time). And then the kids write a short movie review. My kids now love Mondays. Don’t forget to relax and have fun.
Honestly, it's important to remember that your kids don't have to graduate highschool with half their college credits done. On social media, it seems like it is just understood that your homeschool highschool student WILL be taking college classes junior or sophomore year and they WILL pass with flying colors. The classes are college classes for a reason, if your kid isn't ready, it's OK. The majority of kids don't take college classes in highschool and turn out just fine and function in society. Don't do it just because everyone else does because those grades are on their record and can mess with their GPA in the long run. Make sure they are actually ready for that before you take that step.
Yes! Thank you! And our curriculum is so interesting in the high school years that the thought of skipping it for some dull community college classes makes me sad.
@@socalmoore8463 I think she's insulting the woman in this video by assuming that she does nothing all day but look pretty (and record content in makeup). "Ish" is a slang word to replace a curse word that sounds similar.
As a homecoming mom of 22 years- be a family first. I was in a homeschool group for years that focused on academics. One day I realized I needed to stop saying yes to things and say no more to benefit my family. I also realized that Jesus did not come to this world to make sure that we did our math or reading in our writing, HE focused on relationships. God doesn't care if we did our math or studied a certain country. That's not how we get to heaven. At that point, about ten years ago, I committed me and my family to slower living. Best thing I did!
Okay! I keep hearing homeschool moms say this : “it’s not public school at home!” I can see what they’re saying and yet when I watch mothers who video themselves homeschooling - it looks a lot like public school at home. Sitting in desks. Things on the walls that give information. Etc. Etc. I would LOVE a video deep diving into the current education system problems, how this can be solved by a home environment, and HOW to implement that with multiple children at multiple grade levels etc etc.
This doesn’t directly answer your questions, but if you want to better understand the intent of public education look up John Taylor Gatto! Once you understand it, you won’t have any desire to replicate it.
@@RealDefinitionsMatter I’ve looked at John Taylor Gatto and to be 100% honest 🙈 I don’t completely agree with his assessment of our current educational systems. He comes off more like a doomsday negative perspective that I feel is a little off-kilter. He ignores the goodness that has come from the schooling system. Which if we can’t see that, we also can’t fully see the negative… I just want a balanced perspective.
We have desks because it’s helpful for work. We do have posters for some reference. It’s more how folks *use them.* I’m 2nd Gen HS and we’ve always discovered there is “couch subjects” or “table subjects” and there are desk subjects- the kids have group time, or we cuddle and chat about a subject… and then there are things that are best completed at a desk for focus - math, tests, cursive, etc. but then again there are exceptions. 🤷🏽♀️
Every body speaks against “busy work” as I saw my kid get better and better at every skill with each “busy work sheet” through out the year. He needed the practice. He felt accomplished with the review that he knew to help him get through the new stuff Good advice
I needed this perspective right now. I've found myself getting wrapped up in thought of dual enrollment for my oldest while she just cringes and says mom, i just want time to write and read and explore in the woods. I think it's time I start listening to her more; she seems far wiser than her mama. ❤
I've been homeschooling for 25 years. I love watching your channel. You are the homeschool Buddha. You cover everything we've all been through and remind us to take it easy on ourselves. When my two eldest were young I was wound so tight. I thought everyone thought I was a failure. Now they are adults and I wish I could go back in time and tell myself that it all turned out great, without trigonometry and calculus. And for goodness sake stop teaching them Latin. They hated it, so why? They never use it. My three current students are so lucky I've already made most of my mistakes. I hope.
I just started homeschooling this year, my son was in 7th grade and we did catch up all year, learning how to write neatly ( that was a big one that included how letters should be written), learning his multiplication tables ( for real he did not know them) reading the Chronicles of Narnia and writing me a few sentences for each chapter ( you would not even imagine how hard this was for him at 1st, we had to talk through EVERY one and explain how to write a good sentence without he's and they's all through it), vocabulary ( we did not even get through the A's) and...... oh yeah learning the parts of speech! For next year we are joining a co op and I bought him a 30 lesson pack of riding lessons and horse husbandry, I am also adding poetry as another subject! Already just 1 year in, My baby boy is already a better boy, more imaginary, talks to adults better, has interesting thoughts in his head! In this last week we are going to jump into formulas and just introduce them so that we can jump into real math next year! I will be honest I have homeschooled all my kids in middle school but in the past I bought a curriculum and it has worked well both ways but our school district had let my baby slide by so many times that he could not do regular 7th grade work. wish me well I'm going to try to homeschool him all through HS!
Love this! My daughter too is starting homeschool this year she pass to 5th grade and I have been doing placement test on her in order to see where she is at and unfortunately she has not met 5th grade level as her school teacher said she was I’ll very upset because I’ll have to start 4 grade level on her here at home due to not being ready for the 5th grade like the school said
My son also 7th grade took him out we had so many gaps we had to go through 3 grade level language arts and math was on level so I had to cover those gaps but I’m happy to see all that he learned and he is almost where he needs to be I will also homeschool him for high school you all can do it mamas !!!!❤
Another thing about worksheets that many people don’t acknowledge is that they’re practice. They give kids the ability to practice a skill. It takes doing things a few times for our brain to retain them. Especially in subjects that can be more abstract like math or vocabulary, giving kids the opportunity to practice a skill on their own and prove to themselves that they can do it and they know it is important. And with any skill, practice is key to bettering it.
I try to remember the long game goal is to raise Healthy Happy Individuals into adults, I am here to help give tools that they can pick up and set down for whatever projectthey are using in their own life!
Thank you for the reminder that homeschooling is about meeting our children where they’re at. We’re in our 20th year of homeschooling, our three oldest have graduated, two to go. Out of our older three, one flew through almost everything, he just learned so easily, the other two struggled. I met them where they were at but I didn’t truly know how that would work out in the long run. I’m happy to say that it worked!!!! My three older “kids” are all doing just fine in life. My child who struggled the most (he’s on the spectrum and learning was just HARD) is happy and is very productive. He’s recently become a truck driver which was a goal of his since he was young. He and his wife are hoping to become parents soon. 💗 Of my two girls left at home, again one learns very easily and the other struggles. Even though I’ve walked this path before and even seen the positive outcomes, I still needed the reminder that I just need to keep meeting my kids where they’re at and it’ll work out. Thank you! 💐
Thank you for sharing your experience from a been there/done that momma 🙏🏽💗! I've been homeschooling for 11 yrs now and am about to have a senior soon, you can't help but wonder how everything will turn out for them. Your post gave me hope and encouragement.
I’m so glad that the UK children don’t have to take loads of credits. It’s not a thing here. You choose some subjects to do at school (Maths, Science and English are ones you HAVE to do, then you can choose up to 5 other subjects to do. I did food technology, business studies and went to collage one day a week). I think the USA put more pressure on kids schooling than the UK does. I’m choosing to homeschool because I feel like school tries to fit everyone in a box, they want everyone to be on one level and only allow some to slip through and go above and beyond. That way it’s easier to control everyone. Plus I HATE that children are being taught certain things as “facts” when they’re just opinions and I don’t feel comfortable with most of them (I won’t explain what as it’ll get some hate I’m sure).
This video was so, so helpful! I have strongly considered hanging up homeschool after this year, after a cross country move, and navigating homeschooling multiple kids with special needs, I have felt tired, insecure, and even hopeless at times. Thank you for your life-giving words and wise considerations. I know your offerings here are hard won and I just thank you for looking behind to help pull us up and out as well. ❤️
I've been homeschooling for 7 years now and still struggle with juggling it all. The most critical thing I have learned throughout this journey is that real learning only takes place when there is motivation. If your child doesn't understand the significance of the material, then they will just memorize it to pass the tests. Then they'll forget it all in order to fill their brains with more interesting things. This is why allowing them to pursue their passions and use their talents in a productive way is so important!
Yes and amen to this! I was trying so hard to avoid workbooks or worksheets, but heard many large families reccomend embracing workbooks. We've switched over to Christian light education for a couple subjects and it's given us so much freedom!
Thank you. Been homeschooling in South Africa since 2020 and never needed this message more. You were the first homeschool content creator I found (and Ashley from Grace and Grit). Always a good reminder, especially now that my kids are getting older and they 'need' to do more. I am very unpopular in my family and circle of friends for choosing this route, although my kids are thriving socially and academically and perform well in their sports and music. Thanks, now we need to chill more 😊
I needed to hear this, thank you! I decided today that we are going to do two more weeks of our regular schoolwork before we leave it behind and focus on nature study and outdoor skills for the summer. I was stressing about a major writing project that needs a lot more time and being a month behind in our math curriculum, but realized that we've done a lot throughout the year and it would be far better for our family to finish happy and start fresh in the fall. We'll sprinkle the rest of the math in here and there through the summer for skills practice, and if it isn't complete it really doesn't matter.
I agree with the too much schedule of extra curricular stuff. Its hard especially with large families loading kids up but also the cost. And most stuff happens after traditional school hours so scrambling to fit in meals. I have cut back down a bit and its working for us. I like having a more opened schedule to be able to plan for playdates and whatnot
Thank you, Angela. I've been homeschooling for five years and haven't felt overwhelmed until this summer. Comparison with our public schooled friends has crept in and I've started looking at new curriculum (when we've been using material that is NOT broken). Sheesh! Your encouragement comes at a great time. I appreciate your heart and your wisdom.
Yes to the point about choosing a proper curriculum!! I just finished my 2nd year of homeschooling and I have learned that the best programs that work for us are open-and-go. It keeps us accountable. The programs that have a lot of pieces, books, activities - NOT for us. And that's OK. I'm a working mom and don't have the flexibility as others do. And my son is not a fan of sit-down school, so I take that into consideration, as well. I think a Classical education is beautiful, but I know it is not practical for my family. I've had to talk myself down from these lofty ideals I have placed on myself for educating my son.
@@janicerodriguez3696 The first year we did homeschooling, I chose The Good and the Beautiful Language Arts Level 2. At the time, I thought it was pretty mediocre. This past year, we tried Guest Hollow's Language Arts alongside Beowulf's Grammar, which is NOT open and go. There are lots of pieces, books, websites to access, etc. It is a phenomenal program, though - we may continue that into next year, but I did find myself craving an easier setup. Now I'm reconsidering TGTB again just for the sake of it being all prepped for me, turn-page lessons, that sorta thing. Another LA program I've considered is Lightning Literature. I only mention Language Arts here because it is the most intimidating to me!
@Janice Rodriguez we use The Good and The Beautiful and it’s extremely open and go. We’ve done Pre-K, K, Level 1, and going to do Level 2. They have made changes to both the math and language arts recently and I do like it better than it was.
Omg YES to the having to “prove” things with over scheduling. And YES to trying to replicate school at home again going back to trying to prove something
Can you do a vid of the deep dive of how/why classrooms came to be and how we can change the set up of our homeschool environment/guardrails geared for kid’s learning!?
Great points, especially the explanation about over scheduling and how long it takes to just get ready to go to the activity. It’s so important to build that time into the time slot.
Totally agree with all this! We’ve also learned the hard way… another thing at least for us, is that the kids have seasons- we vacation around this time of yea the kid get sick and that derails us, holiday season also. For us summer is too hot and rainy and our only cool time outside is Dec/Jan-Feb/March, so we take winter break instead of summer- knowing this has helped manage expectations
I've been homeschooling for 3+ years now and the time when I came really 'unstuck' was when I compared my son to what the govt says he should know. He has SEN and doesn't learn in a standard way anyway so why I did this I will never know! I've decided that he will continue with maths, English and science on a curriculum but in the afternoon he will do whatever HE is passionate about! I want him to LOVE learning SO THAT he can achieve his own goals. I've had a good hard think about my education and my life AFTER that and I know for sure that knowing HOW to teach yourself something (because you love it) is the key to a joyful and productive life. It's a complete revelation for me and I feel so glad now as we are heading into a new year ❤
Aww, I'm crying 😭 Thanks for the pep talk and reminding that I love my kids so much. This is the beginning of week four homeschooling my two kindergartners, and I've been beating myself up that they are getting overwhelmed. I feel like such a failure for choosing curriculum that is not working for them, but we're going to just camp out here and practice what we've learned until we're ready to move on!
I homeschooled kindergarten and only used the curriculum from The Good and Beautiful. Then we moved onto 1st grade this past year and I had so many expectations for many subjects, but within the first couple of days, I had to scale it way back because my girl couldn't do it all. For first grade we focused on language arts and math. When we were having good days we scattered in science, geography, and history. We also had to take extra time on things that weren't understood, like telling time, adding doubles from memory, etc. All that to say, don't be too hard on yourself. Just go with the flow.
I taught kindergarten for 10 years and my number 1 goal was for my students to love learning. Less is more and just have fun with the learning. Focus on math, reading, and writing at their level. Remember they have only been on earth for 5 years. It takes time to naturally learn new concepts. Have a lot of fun with them.
They only need to start learning to read and write at this age. If they are living in a good learning environment and they see you learning things yourself, they will easily learn on their own. Please don't beat yourself up over it. The best thing you can do is read, read, read.
I am not even a quarter into the video, but when you said "the classroom was not set up to educate children", I SCREAMED. I'm a former public school educator and COULD NOT AGREE MORE, to the point I just HAD to stop watching for a second to say YES. THANK YOU.
My thoughts on education have changed so much! I was homeschooled all the way through and I constantly felt like I wasn't being taught what "real school kids" were. I was extremely insecure in my early 20s aboutmy so called Gaps... but now with 5 kids ages 8-20 we have done private, public, charter, homeschool off and on with all of them..I see gaps no matter what. I also now appreciate SO much how my mom taught me!! I am so different than other women my age. My interests are deeper, my soul longs for beauty, and I seek God and love my faith more than ever. I see my kids doing the same because they can't help it, I am their dorky mom!
THANK YOU!!! I DEFINITELY NEEDED THIS TODAY!!! I go through phases as a year two homeschooling mom on if I’m doing enough for them, are they learning enough, shouldn’t we be doing this or that by now, or whatever else comes to mind. 😢 I beat myself up internally on if they are learning/ learning enough at all at times. ❤ Thank you thank you thank you for this!!!
Thank you for this video. I really needed to hear this. The public schools around us will be finishing up the school year at the end of the month and I am feeling so behind. I have to remind myself that we are on our own schedule and I shouldn’t compare our school setting with a public school. I know my daughter is getting a good education at home and she is learning at her own pace. We’ve got to give ourselves some grace. Thank you again Angela, it was good to hear this out loud. 😊
I really appreciate your truthfulness. Very timely! I would love an elaboration on the last tip. It could be that my two older kiddos have special needs and they set my "norm" and I need to walk beside them a bit more, but I'd love to know more about letting them take more ownership in certain things.
THANK YOU!!! I needed this! Everything you talked about is such good advice! I thought I had to make everything just like public school and have felt inadequate. Thanks for giving such great advice!
Please do give us a breakdown on the reason for the current public school format/classroom set up when you can, in a separate video. I think it builds the case for homeschool or at least gives one more to consider!
Thank you I'm about to begin homeschooling my four-year-old and I'm a little overly excited gathering all the things but in reality will probably barely do 20% of it. I'll have to save this video to rewatch in the future
What a wonderful video. My eldest just graduated high school but I still have four more students to go. So often these are things I would think of but didn’t have the words to describe them. I know this will help so many not burn out!
I am just starting homeschool with my going to be 5th grader and then my 2 toddler. And this video really helped me feel better about some of the things I've already decided not to do. Like not having a "class room" after teaching preschool for 15 years I don't want to see those posters anymore.... lol and also I decided to start small with very little school time each day and increase as I feel more is needed. Instead of having so much to do and then have to take stuff out. I'm excited and nervous about this fall but I have been watching your videos and they are very encouraging. So thank you.
I'm keen for homeschool but Im in the phase of trying to get husband on board (who is a teacher).. I think I will be over scheduling to prove to husband our kids are doing enough. Thanks for the heads up!
Yes! I needed this. My oldest im has been doing testing for dyslexia. I feel like I’m failing her cause she is “behind” I feel like I’m failing her. I wish I got help sooner. But I can do that to myself, I’m getting help now.
I dont know if this would be helpful but theres a curriculum by Sarah Sarah Janisse Brown and she has curriculums that help kids with Dyslexia. My son has never been tested but my husband is 1 of 13 children. Most of whom suffered from some form if dyslexia. We're going to go ahead and try it this fall and see what happens. Anywho I hope this helps.
I love my homeschool classroom, and it sets the tone: school at home. The issue I have with public school is the philosophy and unintegrated scope and sequence between subjects NOT the bell schedule and the desks and the decorations. Imo.
Thank you so much for this video, it’s always so encouraging and it was a great reminder about not stressing about taking breaks from and skipping certain lessons in curriculum! Love your videos ❤
I am forever now going to picture my child on skis going sideways down a bunny slope when I worry, and it will make me chuckle. But the beauty of that analogy is that everyone reaches the bottom however their skill gets them there. I love it.
🎉 I appreciate your wisdom and sense of humor...it really helps a lot to not be to serious yet strive toward goals at your own pace ..and have applicable solutions that might not be consisderd 100 percent perfect because none of us are in the first place! It is a journey and learning experience for all involved Thank you ❤ ( mom of 8 )
Guilty!!! When I started homeschooling I replicated a school room. Now we are in our 3rd year and I am grateful to have a space for storage. But that’s all it’s used for :-)
I totally agree with the over scheduling! It's so so hard though. My daughter does sports in the fall and spring, which is two hours Monday thru Friday. Then, play practice one a week and co-op another day 🥴 i don't know what to cut!
When you see all these kids graduating from certain grades in regular school, it definitely makes me feel like my daughter will always be behind. I have begun to hate the question "what grade is she in". It depends on the subject.
I try to memorize what grade they would be in if they attended public school. I always fail miserably when asked though as I have to search my brain for the answer, and then I feel like I failed. I hate that question too.
It really is none of people's business and it doesn't really matter what grade you tell them because it's not like they're going to quiz your child to prove it. I would just tell them the grade that corresponds to their age.
We continue in summer very lightly and very flexible. I think it helps them retain. Or pick up where you left off in the new school year. I wouldn't skip essential skills like spelling but would ditch the vocab if we didn't finish and I didn't want to continue.
13 yr veteran here… It depends on the grade. If it’s elementary curriculum, we rarely finished science or history. I always have them finish math. Many public schools don’t finish their books. They will hear it all again later, so I don’t kill myself trying to get it all in every year. High school is different. We do finish everything for high school.
We finish everything. We use The Good and The Beautiful for Pre-K, Kindergarten, and now finishing 1st grade. We don’t follow a normal school year though. We do school year round and take breaks whenever we feel or need. Like maybe something came up and we didn’t do school 2 days this week. Then we take off 3 weeks in December. Doing it year round allows us a lot of flexibility because we’re not on a rigid schedule. When we’re finished with one grade or subject, we move to the next.
I am a second generation homeschooler. The most effective thing my mom did was follow her own passions. I saw what it meant to be a life long learner. I saw what it meant to be passionate about many things. I saw how to fit those pursuits into the busy day of a mother. She still has stacks of books on her nightstand and is always telling me about what she’s reading and doing. Now I try to do the same for my children. If we want our children to become lovers of truth, beauty, and goodness- we have to do the same. Sit down to the piano ourselves, learn another language too, read a great book in the tub.
This is amazing advice that I take to heart as a homeschool mom who has stopped following a lot of her passions.
I love this! I always feel bad because I try I cooperating things in our homeschool that I’m passionate about or things I wish I had more time to learn when I was in school. I never thought about it this way. Thank you for sharing!
This video is on point. We've been homeschooling for 7 years. I taught our kids to tell people, "I'm not here for that," when people try to quiz them. Also, the whole idea that homeschooled kids don't have friends or a social life is so absurd, but people make that presumption all the time.
I never considered that you never finish a text book in school . That's an excellent point
Great tips! A fun thing we’ve incorporated is movie Monday. We watch an educational movie (most the time). And then the kids write a short movie review. My kids now love Mondays. Don’t forget to relax and have fun.
Sounds cool. What's an educational movie? Do you mean a documentary?
Honestly, it's important to remember that your kids don't have to graduate highschool with half their college credits done. On social media, it seems like it is just understood that your homeschool highschool student WILL be taking college classes junior or sophomore year and they WILL pass with flying colors. The classes are college classes for a reason, if your kid isn't ready, it's OK. The majority of kids don't take college classes in highschool and turn out just fine and function in society. Don't do it just because everyone else does because those grades are on their record and can mess with their GPA in the long run. Make sure they are actually ready for that before you take that step.
Yes! Thank you! And our curriculum is so interesting in the high school years that the thought of skipping it for some dull community college classes makes me sad.
Love this! I’m not there yet, but I don’t want to do dual enrollment just because I see a lot of other homeschoolers doing it.
@@YasminB-u9d Exactly!! Homeschool high school curriculum is so good that I don’t want them to miss it!
@Jeena Wilder confused…
@@socalmoore8463 I think she's insulting the woman in this video by assuming that she does nothing all day but look pretty (and record content in makeup). "Ish" is a slang word to replace a curse word that sounds similar.
“Homeschooling is a muscle & the more you do it the more you will recognize what fluff can be left out”
Love these tips, thank you!
As a homecoming mom of 22 years- be a family first. I was in a homeschool group for years that focused on academics. One day I realized I needed to stop saying yes to things and say no more to benefit my family. I also realized that Jesus did not come to this world to make sure that we did our math or reading in our writing, HE focused on relationships. God doesn't care if we did our math or studied a certain country. That's not how we get to heaven. At that point, about ten years ago, I committed me and my family to slower living. Best thing I did!
Okay! I keep hearing homeschool moms say this : “it’s not public school at home!” I can see what they’re saying and yet when I watch mothers who video themselves homeschooling - it looks a lot like public school at home. Sitting in desks. Things on the walls that give information. Etc. Etc.
I would LOVE a video deep diving into the current education system problems, how this can be solved by a home environment, and HOW to implement that with multiple children at multiple grade levels etc etc.
This 👆.
This doesn’t directly answer your questions, but if you want to better understand the intent of public education look up John Taylor Gatto! Once you understand it, you won’t have any desire to replicate it.
@@RealDefinitionsMatter I came to say this. Gatto explains it all so well.
@@RealDefinitionsMatter I’ve looked at John Taylor Gatto and to be 100% honest 🙈 I don’t completely agree with his assessment of our current educational systems. He comes off more like a doomsday negative perspective that I feel is a little off-kilter. He ignores the goodness that has come from the schooling system. Which if we can’t see that, we also can’t fully see the negative… I just want a balanced perspective.
We have desks because it’s helpful for work. We do have posters for some reference.
It’s more how folks *use them.* I’m 2nd Gen HS and we’ve always discovered there is “couch subjects” or “table subjects” and there are desk subjects- the kids have group time, or we cuddle and chat about a subject… and then there are things that are best completed at a desk for focus - math, tests, cursive, etc. but then again there are exceptions. 🤷🏽♀️
Every body speaks against “busy work” as I saw my kid get better and better at every skill with each “busy work sheet” through out the year. He needed the practice. He felt accomplished with the review that he knew to help him get through the new stuff
Good advice
I needed this perspective right now. I've found myself getting wrapped up in thought of dual enrollment for my oldest while she just cringes and says mom, i just want time to write and read and explore in the woods. I think it's time I start listening to her more; she seems far wiser than her mama. ❤
I've been homeschooling for 25 years. I love watching your channel. You are the homeschool Buddha. You cover everything we've all been through and remind us to take it easy on ourselves. When my two eldest were young I was wound so tight. I thought everyone thought I was a failure. Now they are adults and I wish I could go back in time and tell myself that it all turned out great, without trigonometry and calculus. And for goodness sake stop teaching them Latin. They hated it, so why? They never use it. My three current students are so lucky I've already made most of my mistakes. I hope.
Wha?? I LOVED Latin! And it helped me so much memorizing terms in higher sciences.
I just started homeschooling this year, my son was in 7th grade and we did catch up all year, learning how to write neatly ( that was a big one that included how letters should be written), learning his multiplication tables ( for real he did not know them) reading the Chronicles of Narnia and writing me a few sentences for each chapter ( you would not even imagine how hard this was for him at 1st, we had to talk through EVERY one and explain how to write a good sentence without he's and they's all through it), vocabulary ( we did not even get through the A's) and...... oh yeah learning the parts of speech! For next year we are joining a co op and I bought him a 30 lesson pack of riding lessons and horse husbandry, I am also adding poetry as another subject! Already just 1 year in, My baby boy is already a better boy, more imaginary, talks to adults better, has interesting thoughts in his head! In this last week we are going to jump into formulas and just introduce them so that we can jump into real math next year! I will be honest I have homeschooled all my kids in middle school but in the past I bought a curriculum and it has worked well both ways but our school district had let my baby slide by so many times that he could not do regular 7th grade work. wish me well I'm going to try to homeschool him all through HS!
Love this! My daughter too is starting homeschool this year she pass to 5th grade and I have been doing placement test on her in order to see where she is at and unfortunately she has not met 5th grade level as her school teacher said she was I’ll very upset because I’ll have to start 4 grade level on her here at home due to not being ready for the 5th grade like the school said
My son also 7th grade took him out we had so many gaps we had to go through 3 grade level language arts and math was on level so I had to cover those gaps but I’m happy to see all that he learned and he is almost where he needs to be I will also homeschool him for high school you all can do it mamas !!!!❤
Another thing about worksheets that many people don’t acknowledge is that they’re practice. They give kids the ability to practice a skill. It takes doing things a few times for our brain to retain them. Especially in subjects that can be more abstract like math or vocabulary, giving kids the opportunity to practice a skill on their own and prove to themselves that they can do it and they know it is important. And with any skill, practice is key to bettering it.
I try to remember the long game goal is to raise Healthy Happy Individuals into adults, I am here to help give tools that they can pick up and set down for whatever projectthey are using in their own life!
Love “pat yourself on the back and then chill out”
Thank you for the reminder that homeschooling is about meeting our children where they’re at. We’re in our 20th year of homeschooling, our three oldest have graduated, two to go. Out of our older three, one flew through almost everything, he just learned so easily, the other two struggled. I met them where they were at but I didn’t truly know how that would work out in the long run. I’m happy to say that it worked!!!! My three older “kids” are all doing just fine in life. My child who struggled the most (he’s on the spectrum and learning was just HARD) is happy and is very productive. He’s recently become a truck driver which was a goal of his since he was young. He and his wife are hoping to become parents soon. 💗 Of my two girls left at home, again one learns very easily and the other struggles. Even though I’ve walked this path before and even seen the positive outcomes, I still needed the reminder that I just need to keep meeting my kids where they’re at and it’ll work out. Thank you! 💐
Thank you for sharing your experience from a been there/done that momma 🙏🏽💗! I've been homeschooling for 11 yrs now and am about to have a senior soon, you can't help but wonder how everything will turn out for them. Your post gave me hope and encouragement.
@@denisea.9033 congratulations on nearing the end with your first one! You’re very welcome for the encouragement. 💗
I’m so glad that the UK children don’t have to take loads of credits. It’s not a thing here. You choose some subjects to do at school (Maths, Science and English are ones you HAVE to do, then you can choose up to 5 other subjects to do. I did food technology, business studies and went to collage one day a week). I think the USA put more pressure on kids schooling than the UK does.
I’m choosing to homeschool because I feel like school tries to fit everyone in a box, they want everyone to be on one level and only allow some to slip through and go above and beyond. That way it’s easier to control everyone. Plus I HATE that children are being taught certain things as “facts” when they’re just opinions and I don’t feel comfortable with most of them (I won’t explain what as it’ll get some hate I’m sure).
Also U.K. and I get what you mean and I agree. My local school is 😢
This video was so, so helpful! I have strongly considered hanging up homeschool after this year, after a cross country move, and navigating homeschooling multiple kids with special needs, I have felt tired, insecure, and even hopeless at times. Thank you for your life-giving words and wise considerations. I know your offerings here are hard won and I just thank you for looking behind to help pull us up and out as well. ❤️
Going on my 3rd year homeschooling and I’m just now getting into a groove.
Same ! It takes a little time to get to smooth sailing. We got this💪
I've been homeschooling for 7 years now and still struggle with juggling it all. The most critical thing I have learned throughout this journey is that real learning only takes place when there is motivation.
If your child doesn't understand the significance of the material, then they will just memorize it to pass the tests. Then they'll forget it all in order to fill their brains with more interesting things. This is why allowing them to pursue their passions and use their talents in a productive way is so important!
Yes and amen to this! I was trying so hard to avoid workbooks or worksheets, but heard many large families reccomend embracing workbooks. We've switched over to Christian light education for a couple subjects and it's given us so much freedom!
Thank you. Been homeschooling in South Africa since 2020 and never needed this message more. You were the first homeschool content creator I found (and Ashley from Grace and Grit). Always a good reminder, especially now that my kids are getting older and they 'need' to do more. I am very unpopular in my family and circle of friends for choosing this route, although my kids are thriving socially and academically and perform well in their sports and music. Thanks, now we need to chill more 😊
I needed to hear this, thank you! I decided today that we are going to do two more weeks of our regular schoolwork before we leave it behind and focus on nature study and outdoor skills for the summer. I was stressing about a major writing project that needs a lot more time and being a month behind in our math curriculum, but realized that we've done a lot throughout the year and it would be far better for our family to finish happy and start fresh in the fall. We'll sprinkle the rest of the math in here and there through the summer for skills practice, and if it isn't complete it really doesn't matter.
I agree with the too much schedule of extra curricular stuff. Its hard especially with large families loading kids up but also the cost. And most stuff happens after traditional school hours so scrambling to fit in meals. I have cut back down a bit and its working for us. I like having a more opened schedule to be able to plan for playdates and whatnot
The lie that we "need to prove" is right on point! ❤ this video was filled with so many good reminders for me.
Thank you, Angela. I've been homeschooling for five years and haven't felt overwhelmed until this summer. Comparison with our public schooled friends has crept in and I've started looking at new curriculum (when we've been using material that is NOT broken). Sheesh! Your encouragement comes at a great time. I appreciate your heart and your wisdom.
Yes to the point about choosing a proper curriculum!! I just finished my 2nd year of homeschooling and I have learned that the best programs that work for us are open-and-go. It keeps us accountable. The programs that have a lot of pieces, books, activities - NOT for us. And that's OK. I'm a working mom and don't have the flexibility as others do. And my son is not a fan of sit-down school, so I take that into consideration, as well. I think a Classical education is beautiful, but I know it is not practical for my family. I've had to talk myself down from these lofty ideals I have placed on myself for educating my son.
What curriculum has worked best for your family? We're currently looking for an "open & go" one for 3rd grade.
@@janicerodriguez3696 The first year we did homeschooling, I chose The Good and the Beautiful Language Arts Level 2. At the time, I thought it was pretty mediocre. This past year, we tried Guest Hollow's Language Arts alongside Beowulf's Grammar, which is NOT open and go. There are lots of pieces, books, websites to access, etc. It is a phenomenal program, though - we may continue that into next year, but I did find myself craving an easier setup. Now I'm reconsidering TGTB again just for the sake of it being all prepped for me, turn-page lessons, that sorta thing. Another LA program I've considered is Lightning Literature. I only mention Language Arts here because it is the most intimidating to me!
@Janice Rodriguez we use The Good and The Beautiful and it’s extremely open and go. We’ve done Pre-K, K, Level 1, and going to do Level 2. They have made changes to both the math and language arts recently and I do like it better than it was.
Ah, you just spoke to my soul. All the feels with schedule and how much it takes to leave the house with littles. Thanks for the affirmation
Actually, your skiing analogy was pretty good
Omg YES to the having to “prove” things with over scheduling. And YES to trying to replicate school at home again going back to trying to prove something
Can you do a vid of the deep dive of how/why classrooms came to be and how we can change the set up of our homeschool environment/guardrails geared for kid’s learning!?
Great points, especially the explanation about over scheduling and how long it takes to just get ready to go to the activity. It’s so important to build that time into the time slot.
Totally agree with all this! We’ve also learned the hard way… another thing at least for us, is that the kids have seasons- we vacation around this time of yea the kid get sick and that derails us, holiday season also. For us summer is too hot and rainy and our only cool time outside is Dec/Jan-Feb/March, so we take winter break instead of summer- knowing this has helped manage expectations
Screaming…”thank you”. Ending my first yr of homeschooling with a 5 yr old, 3 yr old and 18 month old. I needed to hear EVERYTHING you said!
I've been homeschooling for 3+ years now and the time when I came really 'unstuck' was when I compared my son to what the govt says he should know.
He has SEN and doesn't learn in a standard way anyway so why I did this I will never know!
I've decided that he will continue with maths, English and science on a curriculum but in the afternoon he will do whatever HE is passionate about!
I want him to LOVE learning SO THAT he can achieve his own goals.
I've had a good hard think about my education and my life AFTER that and I know for sure that knowing HOW to teach yourself something (because you love it) is the key to a joyful and productive life.
It's a complete revelation for me and I feel so glad now as we are heading into a new year ❤
Aww, I'm crying 😭 Thanks for the pep talk and reminding that I love my kids so much. This is the beginning of week four homeschooling my two kindergartners, and I've been beating myself up that they are getting overwhelmed. I feel like such a failure for choosing curriculum that is not working for them, but we're going to just camp out here and practice what we've learned until we're ready to move on!
I homeschooled kindergarten and only used the curriculum from The Good and Beautiful.
Then we moved onto 1st grade this past year and I had so many expectations for many subjects, but within the first couple of days, I had to scale it way back because my girl couldn't do it all. For first grade we focused on language arts and math. When we were having good days we scattered in science, geography, and history. We also had to take extra time on things that weren't understood, like telling time, adding doubles from memory, etc.
All that to say, don't be too hard on yourself. Just go with the flow.
I taught kindergarten for 10 years and my number 1 goal was for my students to love learning. Less is more and just have fun with the learning. Focus on math, reading, and writing at their level. Remember they have only been on earth for 5 years. It takes time to naturally learn new concepts. Have a lot of fun with them.
They only need to start learning to read and write at this age. If they are living in a good learning environment and they see you learning things yourself, they will easily learn on their own. Please don't beat yourself up over it. The best thing you can do is read, read, read.
I am not even a quarter into the video, but when you said "the classroom was not set up to educate children", I SCREAMED. I'm a former public school educator and COULD NOT AGREE MORE, to the point I just HAD to stop watching for a second to say YES. THANK YOU.
Would love to learn more about how public school system was set up (in contrast with best environment for children to learn).
Peter Gray's Free to Learn, John Holt,and John Taylor Gatto books 💚.
My thoughts on education have changed so much! I was homeschooled all the way through and I constantly felt like I wasn't being taught what "real school kids" were. I was extremely insecure in my early 20s aboutmy so called Gaps... but now with 5 kids ages 8-20 we have done private, public, charter, homeschool off and on with all of them..I see gaps no matter what. I also now appreciate SO much how my mom taught me!! I am so different than other women my age. My interests are deeper, my soul longs for beauty, and I seek God and love my faith more than ever. I see my kids doing the same because they can't help it, I am their dorky mom!
THANK YOU!!! I DEFINITELY NEEDED THIS TODAY!!!
I go through phases as a year two homeschooling mom on if I’m doing enough for them, are they learning enough, shouldn’t we be doing this or that by now, or whatever else comes to mind. 😢 I beat myself up internally on if they are learning/ learning enough at all at times.
❤
Thank you thank you thank you for this!!!
I’m so very glad that I found your channel. You help to ground a person that is getting overwhelmed with this as a first time homeschool parent
Thank you for this video. I really needed to hear this. The public schools around us will be finishing up the school year at the end of the month and I am feeling so behind. I have to remind myself that we are on our own schedule and I shouldn’t compare our school setting with a public school. I know my daughter is getting a good education at home and she is learning at her own pace. We’ve got to give ourselves some grace. Thank you again Angela, it was good to hear this out loud. 😊
I really appreciate your truthfulness. Very timely! I would love an elaboration on the last tip. It could be that my two older kiddos have special needs and they set my "norm" and I need to walk beside them a bit more, but I'd love to know more about letting them take more ownership in certain things.
THANK YOU!!! I needed this! Everything you talked about is such good advice! I thought I had to make everything just like public school and have felt inadequate. Thanks for giving such great advice!
I couldn’t agree more Ange! After learning the hard way myself, over the years of homeschooling my four kids. ✅ 🎉😊
Please do give us a breakdown on the reason for the current public school format/classroom set up when you can, in a separate video. I think it builds the case for homeschool or at least gives one more to consider!
Thank you I'm about to begin homeschooling my four-year-old and I'm a little overly excited gathering all the things but in reality will probably barely do 20% of it. I'll have to save this video to rewatch in the future
What a wonderful video. My eldest just graduated high school but I still have four more students to go. So often these are things I would think of but didn’t have the words to describe them. I know this will help so many not burn out!
I am just starting homeschool with my going to be 5th grader and then my 2 toddler. And this video really helped me feel better about some of the things I've already decided not to do. Like not having a "class room" after teaching preschool for 15 years I don't want to see those posters anymore.... lol and also I decided to start small with very little school time each day and increase as I feel more is needed. Instead of having so much to do and then have to take stuff out. I'm excited and nervous about this fall but I have been watching your videos and they are very encouraging. So thank you.
Such good advice! Been homeschooling for 18 years, and have found all of this to be very true for us as well. Thank you! ❤
Thank you. I do realize that I often work harder than my son 😬.
I thought I like planning but really I just like taking notes. I’m on the planning struggle bus 🚌 big time!!!
This is such an empowering belief and one that will help set so many parents free! THANKYOU for sharing these tips. They're practically so helpful!
Thank you for this video! I gained several important reminders and nuggets of wisdom as we begin our sixth year.
I haven’t watched much RUclips lately besides apologetics podcasts haha I clicked on your video and instantly thought “Aw I’ve missed her”.
I'm keen for homeschool but Im in the phase of trying to get husband on board (who is a teacher).. I think I will be over scheduling to prove to husband our kids are doing enough. Thanks for the heads up!
Omg your mug! I am making that (Rainer NP Hudson Bay style blanket) into my baby’s blanket! Also knit a sweater in that pattern!
Yes! I needed this. My oldest im has been doing testing for dyslexia. I feel like I’m failing her cause she is “behind” I feel like I’m failing her. I wish I got help sooner. But I can do that to myself, I’m getting help now.
I dont know if this would be helpful but theres a curriculum by Sarah Sarah Janisse Brown and she has curriculums that help kids with Dyslexia. My son has never been tested but my husband is 1 of 13 children. Most of whom suffered from some form if dyslexia. We're going to go ahead and try it this fall and see what happens. Anywho I hope this helps.
Thank you so much for sharing in detail.. the only video i have found for all confusions going in my mind.
Spot. On.
💯 Amen!! It's like you could read my mind! Loved every tip. Keep sharing your wisdom and experience, thank you!!
Would love to hear a video about the reasons why public schools are set up the way they are.
Ha! I didn't see it until you pointed it out. NOW I can't unsee it. You're much more beautiful than Smee
I love my homeschool classroom, and it sets the tone: school at home. The issue I have with public school is the philosophy and unintegrated scope and sequence between subjects NOT the bell schedule and the desks and the decorations. Imo.
Thank you so much for this video, it’s always so encouraging and it was a great reminder about not stressing about taking breaks from and skipping certain lessons in curriculum! Love your videos ❤
Thank you so much for this!! We will be homeschooling our son soon and then our other 2 when they are older and this makes so much sense
I am forever now going to picture my child on skis going sideways down a bunny slope when I worry, and it will make me chuckle. But the beauty of that analogy is that everyone reaches the bottom however their skill gets them there. I love it.
Thank you so much!! I need these reminders often! I appreciate you!
Love how you're keeping it real! I agree with all of this!
Thanks Angela
Thanks!These were some helpful tips!Can u give advise on how to set up homeschool so it does not seem burdensome?
🎉 I appreciate your wisdom and sense of humor...it really helps a lot to not be to serious yet strive toward goals at your own pace ..and have applicable solutions that might not be consisderd 100 percent perfect because none of us are in the first place! It is a journey and learning experience for all involved Thank you ❤ ( mom of 8 )
It drives me crazy when people quiz my kids when they find out we homeschool.. like why ?!
😅😂 why do people do this?
YES!! As far as I know, they don't do this with public school kids! The worst is when it's a family member (eg: grandparent) 😏
They do this to prove that home ed isn't all that great after all.
You are going to be fine
I needed this. Thank you.
Needed this!! Rolling into our 3rd year...
Same here. I'll be entering our 3rd year next year with my 4th-grade son. So many great reminders to reset my thinking!!
@Allison Gehlhausen Aweeee we are starting 4th Grade tooooo!!! 💓💓
Thank you for this video. I needed this pep talk!
Loooovveeeee this video....REAL TALK 👏 your personality and vibes resonate with me SO much. Keep this awesome encouragement coming!!! ❤❤❤
Your hair looks beautiful 🌸
The grade level thing is so true! I feel bad that my 10 year old is still on essentially a 3rd grade level in math.
I needed this pep talk today, thanks Angie! 😊
Thank you for this!🎉
This really helped me, thank you!!
I agree 💯
Yes and amen! ❤
Guilty!!! When I started homeschooling I replicated a school room. Now we are in our 3rd year and I am grateful to have a space for storage. But that’s all it’s used for :-)
LOL totally agree about the "busy work".
I needed this.
This is perfect for me! I needed this so much!
Thank you for this 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
Loved this! So helpful!
Great tips. I'm just starting, so this is helpful advice. Thanks!
I so appreciate this encouragement and direction!!!!!!!
I totally agree with the over scheduling! It's so so hard though. My daughter does sports in the fall and spring, which is two hours Monday thru Friday. Then, play practice one a week and co-op another day 🥴 i don't know what to cut!
I agree. There are so many fun things to do, it's hard to choose just a couple things a week to do.
If that was my daughter I would just ask her which one, explain that your overbooked and so is she and have her choose her favorite to continue
If it was my child, she’d be picking only one sport per year.
When you see all these kids graduating from certain grades in regular school, it definitely makes me feel like my daughter will always be behind. I have begun to hate the question "what grade is she in". It depends on the subject.
I try to memorize what grade they would be in if they attended public school. I always fail miserably when asked though as I have to search my brain for the answer, and then I feel like I failed. I hate that question too.
@@tashadodge5985 I feel weird saying the grade she would be in public school since she's on lower grade level with math and language arts.
@@teresaparvin7327 Mine too. However, they don't say a different grade level in public school when a child is in resource or has an IEP.
@@tashadodge5985 that's true
It really is none of people's business and it doesn't really matter what grade you tell them because it's not like they're going to quiz your child to prove it. I would just tell them the grade that corresponds to their age.
Great video! I needed this! Thank you 💖
I love this! So true!! I Hope to see a bunch more homeschooling content. 😊
Do you ever leave any books unfinished? Like, if your kids aren't finished the spelling or vocab by summer, do you continue it or call it good?
We continue in summer very lightly and very flexible. I think it helps them retain. Or pick up where you left off in the new school year. I wouldn't skip essential skills like spelling but would ditch the vocab if we didn't finish and I didn't want to continue.
You can do whichever you feel is the right fit for that kid in that subject. Pam Barnhill is a great resource for these types of homeschool questions!
13 yr veteran here… It depends on the grade. If it’s elementary curriculum, we rarely finished science or history. I always have them finish math. Many public schools don’t finish their books. They will hear it all again later, so I don’t kill myself trying to get it all in every year. High school is different. We do finish everything for high school.
We finish everything. We use The Good and The Beautiful for Pre-K, Kindergarten, and now finishing 1st grade. We don’t follow a normal school year though. We do school year round and take breaks whenever we feel or need. Like maybe something came up and we didn’t do school 2 days this week. Then we take off 3 weeks in December. Doing it year round allows us a lot of flexibility because we’re not on a rigid schedule. When we’re finished with one grade or subject, we move to the next.
Loved these tips Angela!! So helpful👏🏻
Hi do u have any great tips for a first time homeschooler mom