BookShark

Tag: Homeschool Tips

  • 5 Ways to Give Accountability to a Kid Who Is Slacking in Homeschool

    5 Ways to Give Accountability to a Kid Who Is Slacking in Homeschool

    I want to develop my child’s natural love of learning. But some days it seems he’s more interested in smashing through the next level of a favorite video game than doing his homeschool assignments. 

    Yes, kids can lose steam with their school work even with the most engaging of curriculum. Encouraging a child’s accountability for their assignments is a challenge, but it is a worthwhile endeavor. When you can motivate your child, you curb their dawdling, you teach them time management, and—in the long run, you raise a young person who can self-regulate.

    So, what can a parent do to help a child who seems to be slacking? How can a homeschool parent provide the accountability a child needs without micromanaging?

    1. Creating a Partnership Between Kids and Parents

    First, we need to understand that sometimes what looks like slacking can actually be boredom or feeling trapped in a routine that they have little control over.

    Creating a partnership between yourself and your child is a great step in encouraging accountability and responsibility. It begins by listening to each other and respecting each other.

    The outcome of this dialogue will likely include giving children control over their education. Look for all the possible ways you can allow them to choose. Some kids prefer a more structured homeschool plan of checklists while other kids may enjoy an unstructured rhythm. Your child may prefer to do much of their work online, while others may prefer hands-on activities, or a literature-rich approach. Give them ownership over their education by letting them choose topics, curriculum, schedules, formats, etc. The more control they have, the more motivated they will be. 

    2. Getting Kids Invested in Their Work

    A child’s interests can be a great way to get them invested in their work if they are slacking off. Ask your children what they want to learn about. This shows that you care and value their opinions.

    Is your child interested in

    Any of those topics can be the focus of a rich homeschool study. Let your kiddo choose the topic! Go to the library and pick books and videos all about the thing that interests them. Let your kid read, research, and dive deep. When your child has satisfied the thirst for knowledge on that subject, let them pick another topic! Or perhaps you may want to have several different interests going at the same time.

    If you are concerned about leaving out any particular topics, be assured that you can cover nearly every academic subject with almost any topic. Look for the connections between your child’s current passion and math, science, social studies, English, writing, and history. And then set them free to learn with full excitement!

    3. Empowering Accountability

    To be successful at anything, our children need accountability to be responsible. The primary way to instill responsibility is two-fold:

    • be clear about expectations
    • help your child set bite-sized goals to work through

    In all things remember that you want to preserve the joy of learning. So take a step back and consider whether you need to adjust your expectations when your kids appear to be slacking.

    External force and negative incentives (punishments) have been proven to be poor motivators in the long run. On the other hand, positive reinforcement and natural consequences are far better ways of building a work ethic in children.

    4. Modeling Accountability

    If you really want to bring home the idea of accountability, then show your kids by modeling that behavior in your life. Show your curiosity for learning new things, and your kids will do the same.Let them see your personal goal setting and then demonstrate consistency in achieving your own goals even when you’d rather do something else.

    Let’s face it, we as adults don’t find certain tasks enjoyable either. How many times have we put off taking out the trash, making an important phone call, or creating that spreadsheet for work? 

    Showing our kids that even the boring tedious tasks must be done, develops a sense of accountability in our lives and the lives of our young learners. Monkey see, monkey do, so to speak.

    5. Rewarding Effort

    Finding a balance between external rewards (such as screen time, money, gold stars, or candy) and the internal reward of a job well done is key.

    Done sparingly, rewards can be good motivators for reluctant learners who are prone to slacking. But try to encourage effort over outcome. This attitude sets your child up for a growth mindset which helps them overcome obstacles later in life.

    As a homeschool mom, I always want to to lovingly motivate my kids instead of using force. Rewards can be helpful but may not ultimately change behavior. So, it’s important to encourage perseverance. Teach problem-solving skills while also giving your children the freedom to choose their interests to get them invested in their work.

    It’s not easy as a parent to traverse the continuum of pushing our kids too much to the other extreme of coddling and over-sheltering them. But we can all agree that accountability in adulthood is forged in the early years. Now is the time to lay that foundation with loving accountability!f positive emotional and social benefits far beyond merely escaping a negative public school environment where bullying is rampant.

    About the Author

    I’m Erin, an introverted homeschooling mom to two intense extroverted kids. We are child led with a heavy emphasis on read alouds, games, art, nature hikes, and hands-on everything! My kids just learn better when they can use their hands. You can find me at Nourishing My Scholar.

    We traded the hustle and bustle of city life for the quiet that only farm life can provide. This creates a wonderful environment for our children, complete with chickens, goats, ducks, and cows. I’m a huge fan of Harry Potter and Gilmore Girls. When we’re not homeschooling, you’ll find me curled up with a cup of coffee and a good book or possibly enjoying a random dance party in the front yard to the newest Disney soundtrack.

  • Exploring the Effects of Educational Standards on Homeschool Families: Challenges and Benefits

    Exploring the Effects of Educational Standards on Homeschool Families: Challenges and Benefits

    Navigating the Homeschool Landscape in a Standardized World

    As education evolves, homeschooling is becoming a popular choice for families who want a more personalized learning experience. However, this freedom also comes with the challenge of navigating various educational standards that influence homeschooling. In our blog post, “Exploring the Effects of Educational Standards on Homeschool Families: Challenges and Benefits,” we take a closer look at how these regulations, designed to ensure quality education, can both support and complicate the homeschooling journey. From dealing with compliance to exploring creative teaching methods, we explore the balance between meeting standardized expectations and crafting unique learning paths for each family.

    Introduction to Educational Standards in Homeschooling

    Homeschooling offers a unique educational journey, allowing families to tailor learning experiences to their children’s needs. Yet, as the landscape of education evolves, so do the expectations surrounding it. Educational standards in homeschool settings have become a hot topic among parents and educators alike.

    But what exactly are these standards?

    How do they influence homeschooling approaches?

    For many families navigating this path, understanding these dynamics can mean the difference between feeling empowered or overwhelmed.

    In this exploration of educational standards in homeschool contexts, we’ll delve into both challenges and benefits that arise from setting benchmarks for learning. Whether you’re a seasoned homeschooler or just starting out, it’s essential to understand how these factors impact your family’s educational experience. Join us on this enlightening journey as we unpack the world of standards in homeschooling!

    Understanding Standards and Accreditation: What’s the Difference?

    Understanding homeschool standards can be tricky. Many families get confused between “standards” and “accreditation,” but they’re not the same thing.

    Standards are educational benchmarks set by various organizations to guide what kids should learn at different stages. They help parents track progress but aren’t mandatory.

    Accreditation is different—it’s a formal recognition given to homeschooling programs that meet specific quality criteria. This involves a thorough evaluation and can add credibility to a program.

    Many homeschool families skip accreditation because it’s demanding and might limit their teaching flexibility. Knowing the difference between standards and accreditation helps parents decide how to best structure their kids’ education, balancing standards with their own learning goals.

    The Impact of Educational Standards on Homeschool Families

    Educational standards can have a big impact on homeschool families. These benchmarks often help parents plan their curriculum and lessons, ensuring kids get a well-rounded education.

    But not all families find these standards helpful. Some feel overwhelmed by the pressure to follow them, which can lead to stress and anxiety. Trying to stick too closely to these guidelines can sometimes limit creativity and personalized learning.

    On the bright side, educational standards can bring accountability, encouraging parents to regularly assess their child’s progress. This structure can lead to more effective learning for some students.

    In the end, while educational standards offer helpful guidance, each family has to find their own balance between structure and flexibility. This balance is key to creating a positive and enriching learning environment at home.

    Challenges Faced by Homeschool Families in Meeting Standards

    Homeschool families often face challenges when trying to meet educational standards. One big issue is the lack of clear guidelines—every state has different rules, which can make it confusing to know what’s required.

    Time management is another struggle. Parents, who are already juggling multiple responsibilities, might find it hard to carve out enough time for lesson planning and making sure they meet the standards. This can add stress to the family

    Resources are also a key factor. Not every family has easy access to the materials or support systems needed to meet these benchmarks. It can be tough for some to afford quality curricula that align with the standards.

    On top of that, many parents wrestle with self-doubt about their teaching abilities. They might wonder if they’re doing enough to prepare their kids for the future while sticking to the guidelines. Finding the right balance between their teaching style and external expectations is a constant challenge on the homeschooling journey.

    Benefits of Implementing Educational Standards in Homeschooling

    Implementing educational standards in homeschooling has several benefits for families. First, it gives a clear framework for learning, helping parents organize their teaching methods and curriculum choices more effectively.

    Sticking to set standards also boosts accountability. Parents are more likely to stay focused and committed when they have clear goals to meet throughout the school year.

    Another big plus is that it helps parents better assess their children’s progress. With established benchmarks, families can track how their kids are doing in core subjects, making sure they’re on the right path academically.

    Educational standards also create consistency across different homeschool settings, which can make it easier for children to transition back into traditional schools without missing a beat.

    Finally, these standards encourage homeschool families to share resources. When everyone’s on the same page, it’s easier to exchange ideas and materials, making the homeschooling experience richer for everyone involved.

    Alternative Approaches to Meeting Standards in Homeschooling

    Homeschooling offers a world of flexibility. Many families look for alternative approaches to meet educational standards without sacrificing creativity.

    Project-based learning is one option that encourages hands-on experiences. Kids can explore subjects through real-life projects, blending various disciplines into practical applications.

    Another approach is the use of online resources and courses tailored to different learning styles. Platforms offer diverse curricula that align with standards while allowing parents to customize their teaching methods.

    Co-op programs provide an excellent opportunity for social interaction and shared teaching responsibilities. Families band together, pooling skills and resources to cover more ground effectively.

    Lastly, integrating life skills into education can also fulfill standards in unique ways. Cooking, budgeting, or gardening teaches valuable lessons beyond textbooks while meeting academic requirements in engaging formats.

    These alternatives empower families to find what works best for them within the framework of standards in homeschool education.

    The Role of Parents in Developing and Maintaining Educational Standards for their Children

    Parents are the cornerstone of a child’s education, especially in homeschooling. Their involvement shapes the learning environment and influences educational outcomes.

    Setting standards in homeschool begins with understanding individual needs. Parents must assess their child’s strengths and weaknesses to create a customized curriculum. This personalized approach is often more effective than rigid guidelines.

    Maintaining these standards requires commitment. Regular evaluations help track progress and identify areas needing improvement. Parents can adapt teaching methods or materials to keep pace with their child’s development.

    Collaboration also plays a key role. Engaging with other homeschool families fosters shared resources and ideas, enriching the educational experience for everyone involved.

    Moreover, parents should stay informed about state regulations regarding educational standards in homeschool settings. Being proactive ensures compliance while still allowing for flexibility within their unique framework of learning choices.

    Does My Family Have to Meet State Educational Standards?

    The question of whether or not homeschool families are required to meet state educational standards is a common concern among parents who have chosen to educate their children at home. The answer, however, may vary depending on the state in which the family resides.

    In general, most states do require homeschool families to meet certain educational standards. These standards are put in place to ensure that homeschooled children receive an education that is comparable to what they would receive in a traditional school setting. These standards typically cover subjects such as math, science, English language arts, and social studies.

    One way that homeschool families can demonstrate that they are meeting these standards is by keeping detailed records of their children’s academic progress. This can include samples of coursework, grades or evaluations from standardized tests, and any other relevant documentation. Some states also require homeschool families to submit annual reports or portfolios for review by a certified teacher or education official.

    While adhering to state educational standards may seem daunting for some homeschool families, there are actually several benefits to doing so. One major benefit is that it provides structure and accountability for both the parents and students involved in homeschooling. By having clear goals and expectations set by the state, parents can feel more confident in their ability to provide a quality education for their children.

    Additionally, meeting state educational standards helps ensure that homeschooled students have access to resources and opportunities that may not be available otherwise. For example, many states allow homeschooled students to participate in extracurricular activities at local public schools if they meet certain criteria, such as maintaining good academic standing.

    However, one challenge facing homeschool families when it comes to meeting state educational standards is finding curriculum materials that align with those requirements. This can be especially difficult for families who follow alternative methods of education such as unschooling or Montessori-style learning. In these cases, parents may need to supplement with additional materials or create their own curriculum plans in order to meet the state standards. See your state’s Department of Education website for the latest information.

    Finding a Balance between Standards and Flexibility in Homeschooling

    Navigating the world of homeschooling often requires careful consideration of educational standards. These benchmarks can offer a framework for what children should learn, but they also introduce challenges. Parents may feel pressure to meet these standards while ensuring their child’s unique needs are addressed.

    Flexibility is one of the primary advantages of homeschooling. Families can tailor education to fit individual learning styles and interests. This adaptability can enhance engagement and motivation in students, allowing them to explore subjects deeply rather than superficially ticking boxes.

    However, finding harmony between adhering to standards and maintaining this flexibility is key. Striking that balance enables parents to provide a quality education while still offering personalized experiences that traditional schooling may not allow.

    As families consider implementing educational standards, it helps to remember their purpose: guiding learners toward essential knowledge and skills without stifling creativity or passion for discovery. Embracing both structure and freedom might just be the ideal path forward in the evolving landscape of homeschool education.

    It’s important for homeschool families to research and understand their state’s educational standards in order to ensure compliance. This will not only help them stay in line with legal requirements, but also provide a framework for their children’s academic success. By meeting these standards, homeschooled students can receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for future academic pursuits and beyond.

  • 10 Quick-witted Comebacks About Homeschool Socialization

    10 Quick-witted Comebacks About Homeschool Socialization

    I admit it, verbal sparring is my knee-jerk reaction when I’m asked about homeschool socialization. Even as a seasoned homeschool mom, this topic still puts my emotions into overdrive. To prevent knee-jerk sarcasm or snarky one-liners, I have prepared 10 quick-witted comebacks. Maybe you can use one or two when you get the dreaded socialization question.

    1. “Though my son had good teachers, none of them can provide the love, time, patience, or energy that I can.”

    This answer takes the attention away from socialization and puts it on why I really homeschool, which is the superior one-on-one tutoring.  I emphasize the flexibility and adaptability of homeschooling.

    Homeschooling is all about change. As the child’s needs change, so do the curriculum, teaching methods, and schedules. Most reasonable people will admit that level of flexibility is almost impossible for a public school to achieve.

    2. “Schooling at home builds self-esteem which is the foundation of healthy social skills.”

    Everyone knows the reality of bullying and how it can impact children even well into adulthood. Homeschooling minimizes those negative interactions so that children have a chance to build their own self-worth.

    3. “Public school is a very recent happening. Before public school, everyone, including the founding fathers, was homeschooled or used private teachers.”

    Not every reply has to be short. A well-researched reply explaining the history of public education can help a person appreciate that you’re using a time-tested method of instruction.

    4. “I want my kids educated not entertained.”

    To elaborate, I may explain my exasperation with the notion that every moment of a child’s life has to be planned. Being constantly entertained leaves little room for imagination and intuition.

    5. “The only way my homeschooled kids won’t make friends is if we don’t get out.”

    6. “I prefer that my children socialize with others of different ages because I want my kids to accept people of varying backgrounds and ages.”

    7. “We homeschool because if a schedule or curriculum is not working, I don’t have to get the principal’s approval to change it.”

    8. “Homeschooling is the best option for our family.”

    This is another one where it’s hard for people to pick an argument with you when you state that your family benefits best from this type of teaching.

    9. “This year I will need to cut back on our socialization activities because we need to stay home to school.”

    Why do people think we lock away our kids at home? Sometimes the situation is quite the opposite and homeschool families find themselves out and about far too much of the time.

    10.  “Standardized tests are flawed and don’t really measure how well children learn. However, I have some stats here for you if you would like to know how homeschooled kids perform.”

    Stats and facts help naysayers to understand a situation in a way they process information.You can either print out articles from National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI) or direct them to that website for their own research.

    Being prepared is part of my nature, but finding humor and being good-natured when asked about homeschooling is something I like doing too. Sometimes you can find humor in a statement and other times you have to give an explanation. 

  • 5 Ways BookShark Virtual Makes Roadschooling Easier

    5 Ways BookShark Virtual Makes Roadschooling Easier

    Ever since my oldest decided to go back to school, I’ve mourned the days when our schedule was our own and we traveled off-season whenever we wanted. I loved the lack of crowds, the discounted pricing, and how spontaneous we could be. I also loved how we could take our learning with us wherever we went. When we visited family or joined my husband on a work trip, we could maintain a familiar structure to our day. 

    BookShark is now making homeschooling on the road a lot easier. BookShark Virtual allows students to tap into their lessons and assignments anywhere with internet access! So whether you’ll be vacationing for a week or traveling for a year, BookShark Virtual makes it easy for students and parents to homeschool. 

    If you are considering an RV adventure this year or are already on the road, BookShark Virtual will help you homeschool wherever your travels take you. Here are some of the awesome features you can use the next time you hit the road. 

    1. Mobile Friendly Browser-Based View

    BookShark’s virtual program is hosted through Buzz which features two main views, allowing parents and students to stay up-to-date with lessons and activities:

    • Teacher view: Parents (or a teacher supervising through a charter school situation) can assign and record grades, track missing assignments, communicate with students, view assignment descriptions, and update due dates. The adult using this view can also see which assignments were submitted and what still needs attention. 
    • Student view: Students can view their grades, post discussions, watch videos, take quizzes, and communicate with their teacher/parent. They can also use embedded links to access their lessons. In addition, they complete Science and Language Arts Activity Sheets directly through the app.  

    The calendar feature in the Buzz apps is especially helpful. The assignments show up in list form, showing the day they are due. In addition, everyone can set reminder notifications. 

    2. A Digital Instructor’s Guide + More

    When I travel, I live by the motto “Less is more.” I don’t want our car or camper packed to the gills. I love my big blue Instructor’s Guide binder, but it is not travel-friendly. 

    Thankfully, everything you and your student needs is now digital and housed in BookShark Virtual. You’ll find the weekly and daily plans, discussion questions, worksheets, and even assessments—all online. Leave the bulky IG at home and just grab the great books you’ll read.

    3. Option to Download

    When we travel, wifi is not always an option, so downloading the Activity Sheets is a huge perk. Once downloaded, students can complete the activities digitally as PDFs. Or print them and fill them in on the road, using the app to keep track of the assignments. Assignments can also be uploaded so students have all of their finished work in one place. 

    4. You Still Set the Pace

    BookShark Virtual lets you set the pace. Weekly lessons are your guide, but it is up to you how fast you work through the curriculum. Your student has access to the virtual curriculum for a year, so there is plenty of time for them to take breaks or spend extra time on a lesson. 

    Traveling can also set our pace. If the weather’s bad, our kids might have extra time for schooling. At other times, school work might need to take a backseat to exploring museums, or nature preserves. It’s nice to know your students aren’t going to fall behind. BookShark curriculum is a flexible four-day-a-week program that meshes well with an RV or roadschooling lifestyle. 

    5. You Still Enjoy Great Books

    I love that BookShark Virtual still includes physical books. Since most of the books BookShark uses are novels, you won’t be lugging around heavy textbooks. And students spend the majority of their learning time away from screens and with a good book in their hands. 

    I love that BookShark Virtual still includes physical books. Since most of the books BookShark uses are novels, you won’t be lugging around heavy textbooks. And students spend the majority of their learning time away from screens and with a good book in their hands. 

    On the road or not, the new virtual option gives us homeschoolers even more flexibility. Take your lessons to the park, study on a field trip, or head to a local coffee shop. Wherever you go, near or far from home, you can now effortlessly take BookShark with you. 

    *This post was updated 02/21/2023 to reflect the current Virtual platform.

    About the Author

    Kelly left teaching middle and high school English to homeschool her children and reclaim how she and her family spent their time. Followers of interest-led learning, her family’s days rarely look the same, but they tend to include a lot of books, art supplies, and time outside.

    Kelly facilitates local writing circles for women and children and blogs about nurturing the love of learning on her blog, Curiosity Encouraged. She loves to journal, read memoirs, hike, and travel. She seeks quiet mornings and good coffee daily.

  • Why We Love BookShark’s Read-Alouds

    Why We Love BookShark’s Read-Alouds

    My son is in fifth grade this year. He’s at that age where he’s growing up fast but he still loves to snuggle on the couch with his mom occasionally. One of the things he loves the most is reading together.

    We have a long-standing tradition of reading a book together each night, usually one that has a movie coming out that we’d like to see.

    This year with BookShark as our curriculum, that nighttime reading tradition has become part of our homeschool day, too! Since he’s an independent reader, we haven’t included Read-Alouds in our homeschool for several years. I admit that it’s something we let slide while we were using other curriculums. But now that we’re on the BookShark bandwagon, I’m realizing how wonderful it is to use reading aloud with a middle schooler! 

    I’m Reading What He’s Reading

    I make an effort to read almost everything my son reads, but it gets difficult especially during busy times in our lives. With Read-Alouds, we are reading together, and that means I’m sharing the story with him.

    We had an awesome experience this year with our first Read-Aloud, Pablo’s Journey (from Level 3), a story about a young boy aboard Columbus’ ship. What we learned in the novel was made even clearer when we toured replicas of the Nina and the Pinta. Our field trip took on so much more meaning because we were able to discuss aspects of the book and relate it to what we were seeing!

    If we hadn’t shared the experience of Pablo’s Journey, our field trip would have not been as rich of an experience.

    It’s a Soothing Part of Our Homeschool Day

    Between math problems and writing activities, it is great to have part of the day when we savor a little quiet and connection.

    During Read-Aloud time, my son can enjoy a snack, and the dog joins us on the couch. It is a reminder of why we homeschool in the first place—to nurture and enjoy our family relationships!

    Reading aloud is a part of our day that my son looks forward to the most. He asks when we’ll be reading together and will happily sit to hear more than what the lesson plan calls for that day! It is great to have at least one thing each day that I can count on to be enjoyable for everyone.  

    BookShark Has Chosen Great Books

    BookShark has curated such an awesome collection of books for reading aloud that it makes it pleasant as a parent to share in the adventure with your child. These living books bring history to life in a way that is enjoyable and fun. They open up conversations about the time periods and spark interest in aspects of history that may not have interested your child before. The books you read make all the difference in an successful lesson, and so far we have loved all of our books this year.

    There comes a point in homeschooling when your child is older and capable of reading silently. That’s when you may ditch the Read-Alouds. But that might not be the best choice! BookShark has reminded me why Read-Alouds are such a great part of learning. I’m thankful for how the books have helped me connect us with my son this year! 

    About the Author

    Krista is the homeschooling mom of 3 boys. After 13 years she has learned the value of chilling out, going with the flow and keeping homeschooling fun! She is the blogger behind Far From Normal where she hopes to encourage parents and homeschoolers, and inspire a life lived happily outside the box! 

  • 4 Ways to Develop a Growth Mindset in Your Homeschool

    4 Ways to Develop a Growth Mindset in Your Homeschool

    When I was in graduate school, one of my literature professors assigned a text called The Elements (and Pleasures) of Difficulty (2004). It arrived from Amazon in a tiny box, a thin volume with an 80s-inspired cover. Irritated, I flipped through the pages and tossed it aside. I had weighty selections from the Victorian canon awaiting my time and attention. Why did I have to wade through fluff?

    Probably that attitude, for starters. With the exception of the aforementioned book, the reading list for this course was challenging. I had begun to rue the day I decided to pursue this path and was contemplating withdrawing from the program.

    Fortunately for me and my graduate career, I finally picked up the little book on difficulty. What a change it made in my attitude! The book not only taught me how to conquer the challenge of a difficult text, but how to recognize and appreciate the beauty of that challenge as well. The more I viewed difficulty as opportunity, the more successful I became in my academic endeavors. Challenge had become a stepping stone, not a stumbling block, and it showed.

    The Growth Mindset Philosophy

    Several years later, I stumbled upon the research of psychologist Carol Dweck. Her work with thousands of elementary students reflected what I discovered in graduate school: certain behaviors and habits of mind can support or suppress intellectual growth. Dweck called these habits mindsets, noting the crucial role of a positive attitude in rebounding from setback and failure.

    In 2007, Dweck compiled her research and analysis into Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. In it, Dweck outlines how students learn and succeed when they move from a fixed mindset (“I’ll never be good at that.”) to a growth mindset (“I’m struggling with this topic. What do I do next?”). According to Dweck,

    “When students believe they can get smarter, they understand that effort makes them stronger. Therefore they put in extra time and effort, and that leads to higher achievement.”

    Dweck’s title received immediate acclaim. Educators and parents sought to implement the ideology in their classrooms and homes. Students and teachers who exhibited a growth mindset saw an increase in achievement across the board, regardless of age or ability level.

    Cultivating a Growth Mindset in Your Homeschool

    As parents, we are the primary influence on our children’s mindsets. Children can’t challenge negative internal dialogue or attitudes effectively until external forces are neutralized. Take some of the fixed mindset phrases we often say without thinking:

    • “It’s okay, honey. Math is hard.”
    • “Don’t worry. I’m not much of a reader, either.”
    • “Don’t compare yourself to your sister. Not everyone’s an expert in the arts.”

    There may well be truth to these sentiments. Math is hard, not everyone enjoys reading, and we all have our own talents and interests. But if we want our children to change the way they look at challenge and difficulty, we must change the way we see it as well. It isn’t easy, but putting the next four tips into practice will put you well on your way.

    Growth Mindset Tip #1: Practice Purposeful Effort

    Doing your best is commendable. Doing your best with the intent to move mountains is admirable and more helpful in the long run.

    Growth Mindset Tip #2: Find Joy in the Process

    Great minds are curious, not ambitious. Embrace learning for the sake of learning and let go of the desire for accolades.

    Growth Mindset Tip #3: Encourage Reflection

    Take time to evaluate the progress you have made. Ask these questions:How have we grown?What have we conquered?What lessons have we learned that we can apply going forward?

    Growth Mindset Tip #4: See Weakness as an Area for Growth

    Remember: Challenges are stepping stones, not stumbling blocks. We all have weaknesses, but they neither define us nor dictate our actions.

    Preparing for the Future

    Looking back on my own academic career, I’m struck by the number of opportunities I let slip by because I was afraid of the challenge. I don’t want that for my own children. We’re working on developing a growth mindset in our own homeschool, and we’re closing in on the day when all of us view challenges as stepping stones. There’s great pleasure to be found in difficulty, as long as you know where to look.

    About the Author

    Ginny Kochis is a former high school English teacher and adjunct professor of English turned homeschooling mom and business owner. She writes about faith, motherhood, homeschooling and family literacy at Not So Formulaic

  • Choosing a Homeschool Program for Gifted Students

    Choosing a Homeschool Program for Gifted Students

    My son rolled under the table in the back of the preschool room while his teacher read a book to the group, and I watched on in mild embarrassment. Why couldn’t he focus like the other kids? Why wasn’t he sitting and taking in the story as raptly as the others were?

    He’s just a sponge, who takes in everything and internalizes things, making cognitive leaps so quickly.

    As the teacher finished, I saw him creep back towards the carpet slowly, though he was still very wiggly, and stayed slightly set back from the others. She started asking questions—basic ones like, “What color is the hat the kid was wearing?” and “Why did he need to buy a new toy?” The children chimed in with simple answers.

    My son crept still closer until he was in a position to join the conversation. He started by comparing the story to a television program his dad watched a few nights ago, and through that comparison, he applied the moral of the story to everyday life. The teacher looked at him knowingly. His mind didn’t operate on the same plane as that of the other children.

    He then went back under the table, squirming while he waited for his sweet teacher to tell the others what they needed to do in their center work. Afterwards, she came over to give him a very different task to complete.

    What is Giftedness and Asynchronous Development?

    According to The Columbus Group (1991), giftedness is asynchronous development in which advanced cognitive abilities and heightened intensity combine to create inner experiences and awareness that are qualitatively different from the norm. This asynchrony increases with higher intellectual capacity. The uniqueness of the gifted renders them particularly vulnerable and requires modifications in parenting, teaching, and counseling in order for them to develop optimally.  

    Asynchronous development is arguably the defining characteristic of the gifted. This means that their development is out of sync with their neurotypical peers. For my four-year-old in the anecdote above, it meant that he was listening intently to that picture book, making incredible leaps from the the story, and connecting, then applying those thoughts to a news story and to life. All while rolling around on the floor like a typical four year old boy—although at an inappropriate time.

    Homeschooling the Gifted Child

    While the mom in me cringed at the sight of my kiddo being the only one who looked like he wasn’t paying attention and focused on the behavior rather than the result, the gifted specialist in me had seen things like this so many times before.

    In that preschool room observing gifted asynchrony from a parent’s perspective, I realized that I never fully understood all that the parents of the gifted, profoundly gifted, and twice-exceptional children with whom I’d worked with for decades had been trying to tell me. And, in retrospect, I wish I’d realized then how important homeschooling would be to this particular kiddo, and had chosen to keep him home from the start.

    Gifted children thrive in a homeschool setting where they can be themselves—wiggly and fidgety or laser-focused on a self-selected topic. They thrive when their tasks can be customized for them, or when they can follow rabbit trails of interest to them with a gifted homeschool curriculum.

    We didn’t homeschool our son from the beginning, and those few years of schooling were hard.

    Finding and Modifying a Homeschool Program for Gifted Students

    There are just so many layers to giftedness, and that definition from the Columbus Group is crucial for parents—especially homeschoolers—to keep in mind every time we go to choose a curriculum.

    The uniqueness of the gifted renders them particularly vulnerable and requires modifications in parenting, teaching, and counseling in order for them to develop optimally.

    The search for the perfect curriculum can feel overwhelming for the parent of a gifted child. It’s like the story of Goldilocks—too deep, not deep enough, too slow, too fast—it’s nearly impossible to find just right. And the truth is—there isn’t a just right curriculum for a gifted kiddo. (And if anyone tells you that they have developed a gifted homeschool curriculum, run away.)


    Image Credit: Syeda@thepreciousyears on Instagram

    Using BookShark Literature-Based Curriculum with Gifted Students

    So, does BookShark work for gifted kids?

    Absolutely.

    But, like any other program, you’re going to need to think outside the box as you use it.

    BookShark is an amazing, literature-rich program that is all planned out for you and full of wonderful books of all genres. It boasts a four-day schedule, with a very detailed and easy-to-use teacher’s guide. It’s literally an open-and-go curriculum.

    For most people.

    Needless to say, I’ve adapted the program heavily just like I would with any program for my gifted learners.

    My kids want to hear the stories. They don’t want to stop after a chapter, so we binge read and finish 2-3 of the Read-Alouds in a week if that works for us. There’s no shortage of retention. The conversations in the van while trekking to theater rehearsals and science programs are rich and deep. The books inspire deep thinking, and my kids love the mental challenge!

    The most important thing to remember as you’re using a curriculum like BookShark with gifted learners is that you’ll have to make it your own. For example, we skip the current event reports assigned in the Instructor’s Guide. While the reasoning behind doing them is solid and important as explained in the guide, my kiddos don’t need to do reports on current events because they already eat, sleep, and breathe critical thinking and opinions. Goodness gracious… the opinions in a room full of gifted children can overwhelm, but lead to fascinating conversations.

    We also don’t follow the four-day schedule as laid out in the Instructor’s Guide. For many gifted children, the idea of jumping from section to section (or subject to subject) is a drag once they get excited to learn about something. Instead, we take a more integrative approach.

    I look at each book suggestion and the activities that go along with it, see how they tie into any geography or timeline activities, go over the discussion question all at once, and then we read. It may take us a day or two to finish a book, or several weeks, but we take it at the pace we deem best, making a new decision with each title and our engagement in that title. And, actually, for the very advanced reader, a parent may not even ask any of the discussion questions while the book is being read.

    I let my ten-year-old read as quickly as she wants to—and sometimes that includes several books in one day—and then we might chat about some of the questions in the guide once she’s completed the entire book and wants to move onto the next one.

    The truth is that an Instructor’s Guide is just that—a guide. Parents of gifted children need to read through the guide to see the scope and sequence of a curriculum and what will be taught, but then the Instructor’s Guide serves as your springboard for devising a pace that works for you.  

    How Book-based Homeschool Curriculum Works for Gifted Learners

    For a gaggle of gifted kids—or just one, for that matter—a book-based curriculum like BookShark allows them to push forward at their own pace, reading as much as they desire, sometimes finishing several weeks worth of content in a single week. It also allows for them to go deep when they find a topic they’re interested in and fall down a rabbit hole or two by pulling in more books, diving into writing or project suggestions, or just talking endlessly about their latest discovery.

    In our case, the five and eight year olds will probably revisit this program and its books on their own in a few years when they’re reading independently. By then, they’ll breeze through two years in one because they’ll have the prior knowledge from which to draw.

    The ten-year-old will probably be done with all the books and poems within a few months and will beg for the second year world history program so she can keep reading. For her, a child whose learning comes from what she reads rather than what she does or watches, she and I will talk about, journal, and debate the talking points that are in the teacher’s manual or the ones she comes up with on her own.

    But for all three of my gifted children, the biographies, history books, and novels in the curriculum bleed into their play, into the stories they write, into the conversations they have with one another, and into the museum trips they want to take.

    A program like BookShark, with its fiction, nonfiction, poetry, discussions, and Instructor’s Guide is a perfect spine for a gifted homeschool family because it allows for the depth and breadth, rabbit trails, and adaptation that an asynchronous gifted child needs most.

    A homeschool program for gifted students like BookShark, with its fiction, nonfiction, poetry, discussions, and Instructor’s Guide is a perfect spine for a gifted homeschool family because it allows for the depth and breadth, rabbit trails, and adaptation that an asynchronous gifted child needs most.

    And that wiggly, squirmy four-year-old in the library is now a thriving high schooler who often comes along with me when I speak to parents of gifted and twice-exceptional parents who are dipping their toes into the adventures that homeschooling brings. He’ll tell anyone that flexibility and outside-of-the-curricular-box-thinking is what one needs most to make it as a homeschooling gifted child.

  • When Mom Has ADHD: Tips for Parenting and Homeschooling

    When Mom Has ADHD: Tips for Parenting and Homeschooling

    Parenting a child with ADHD is difficult. For a mom with ADHD, though, it can feel nearly overwhelming.

    There are the typical symptoms of ADHD, which often pose a challenge to a person’s ability to think clearly on demand. But, since parents with ADHD are more likely to have children who also have the disorder, these moms may struggle to manage both their own symptoms and those of their child.

    How can moms with ADHD cope with the stresses of their own lives while parenting and homeschooling successfully? These tips for the ADHD mom can help. (Really! I use them!)

    Tips for Living as a Mom with ADHD

    • Do one thing at a time. Multi-tasking is almost impossible for moms with ADHD. Giving each task full attention reduces the likelihood of mistakes and becoming overwhelmed.
    • Delegate. Moms already have a lot of responsibilities, so it’s easy to become burdened with things to do. Teaching kids to help out around the house can make this load easier to bear.
    • Be realistic. No mother should have to be a superhero. Being reasonable about the amount of things that can be done each day will help to avoid frustration.

    Parenting as a Mom with ADHD

    • Slow down. Moms with ADHD may experience racing thoughts that can make it difficult to parent with patience. To avoid a meltdown, try to slow down and approach each situation calmly.
    • Develop a routine. A predictable routine can make it easier to structure the day ahead. Keep things simple by developing a natural rhythm that can be followed by everyone in the family.
    • Expect the unexpected. Parenting is full of unexpected moments. While a routine is helpful, it cannot predict the events that will arise each day. Ease stress by giving yourself time to manage last-minute needs that kids may have.

    Homeschooling as a Mom with ADHD

    • Focus on the essentials. Some mothers who have ADHD may tend toward hyper-intensive planning. Since homeschooling already requires a fair amount of planning, these mothers may overwhelm themselves with lesson plans, activities, and state objectives. Instead, concentrate on the most important subjects and approach the others with a more relaxed method.
    • Use a block schedule. Unlike timed schedules, which require that each lesson be completed by a certain time, block schedules consist of time slots for each subject. This routine can be easier for moms with ADHD to follow because it allows for structure without adding the stress of a timed deadline.
    • Be flexible. No matter how well in advance a lesson is planned, homeschooling parents will always need to make adjustments. If a child dislikes a curriculum or if the lesson doesn’t get completed, learn to be flexible enough to move a lesson to another date or remove it from the plan completely. As long as the objectives are covered each year, the actual method doesn’t really matter.
    • Get help. Some homeschooling moms put pressure on themselves to teach every subject. Instead, enlist the help of family members or friends to help kids with some subjects. This frees up the parent to focus on the material that she can enjoy learning with the kids.
    Homeschooling when you Have ADHD

    Living with ADHD will never be easy. Using these tips, though, can make some of the most difficult aspects of life with this disorder manageable for moms. In fact, even moms without ADHD will probably benefit from applying these same survival skills.

    About the Author

    Selena is a homeschooling graduate and a veteran homeschooling mother of four, including three with ADHD. She and her husband, Jay, use an eclectic homeschooling approach to encourage their children to learn throughout their lives. Selena blogs about her family’s homeschooling adventures every week at Look! We’re Learning! 

  • How to Teach Spelling to Kids in a Fun Way

    How to Teach Spelling to Kids in a Fun Way

    It wasn’t all that long ago when I was desperately memorizing another spelling test and another set of words just to forget them over the weekend. When I was in school, we were given an assortment of 15 or 20 random words that we were expected to simply know. The problem with spelling lists and weekly spelling tests is that the information is not assimilated into other subjects. We do not learn the correct spelling to use in our writing. Instead, we learn the spelling for the test and then immediately forget it.

    While learning the intricacies of spelling in any language is challenging, we do have patterns in English (along with plenty of exceptions). But most words we can learn to spell with a rule. So throwing together a list of words with no rhyme or reason does not suit the person learning the words. And testing on the list of random words will not help anyone learn the words on a long-term basis.

    Five Problems with Weekly Spelling Tests

    1. The teaching often lacks a basic level of understanding. When a lesson is introduced on the basic level, we can build on that information. But throwing someone into the top level without the basics is going to leave them confused.

    2. Spelling tests do not indicate spelling ability. For some students, a good score on a spelling test will reflect their ability to spell. But mostly, spelling tests indicate that someone can memorize words for 24 hours.

    3. Learning should be meaningful. People learn best when they can attach meaning to information. A student who decides to investigate a new topic, such as the Apollo 11 space mission, may learn to spell new words like lunar module. The spelling of those words will probably stick with them because they are meaningful. However, if those words were placed on a spelling test without context or interest, learning to spell them would be considerably more difficult.

    4. Rote memorization does not work. We know that rote memorization is not the best way to learn for most people. Items learned with rote memorization may enter short term memory, but rarely do they enter long term memory.

    5. Isolated learning does not extend to other areas. When learning is isolated, or learned in only one context, the information does not always make its way to other areas. Learning to spell a word on a list does not mean that it will be spelled correctly when used in writing. The information was learned for the test itself and not for writing.

    How to Teach Spelling Without Weekly Tests

    1. Choose a spelling system that uses logical progression. A system that teaches spelling words in logical groups is a good place to start. Kids can start by learning how to spell cat (c-a-t) and then extrapolate that information to spell sat, bat, hat, mat, etc. By learning the rule, they’ve learned to spell more than five words instead of just one.

    2. Investigate spelling in context. When your child develops an interest in a particular topic, place a bit of focus on new vocabulary and the spelling of those words. Interest will undoubtedly lead to learning. In this way, your spelling words can come from history lessons, science lessons, or read alouds.

    3. Regularly assess spelling ability. It serves no purpose to let a student fall behind in their spelling ability. There are assessments that can be done to indicate where spelling abilities may be lacking. Unlike a test in which a word is expected to be memorized, an assessment will include many different word patterns to see where a student may lack understanding. At that point, future spelling lessons can target problem areas to adequately learn the rules.

    How to Teach Spelling to Kids in a Fun Way

    4. Create a word wall, personal dictionary, or journal. Provide a space where words can be displayed or used for reference. New words may be added as they are learned and the entire book can be used during writing activities.

    5. Games. Once you’ve decided on the best method to introduce new spelling words for your kids, you can practice with games. If they understand the rules behind the spelling, the games can help them cement that knowledge.

    Spelling tests are not an efficient way to teach spelling. But we have tools at our disposal to make spelling successful. Like anything, it takes a lot of repetition and patience, but over the years, your children will learn how to spell!

    Author Erin Brown

    About our Author

    Erin blogs at Royal Baloo where she inspires people to make learning fun!  Through printables, games, activities, and unit studies, learning becomes an adventure worth having.

  • What is the Best Time of Day to Learn for Children? Homeschooling to Personal Rhythms

    What is the Best Time of Day to Learn for Children? Homeschooling to Personal Rhythms

    For our family, paying attention to time is a huge piece of why we homeschool:

    • having enough time for things we love
    • spending time together
    • learning at the times when we feel our best

    I homeschool because I want my children to have time to learn and follow their passions. For us, this means we don’t follow a traditional school schedule. Depending on the day, season, year and the outside classes my children take, our learning might happen in the early morning or late afternoon.

    I’ll be honest. Sometimes I love our rhythm, and other times it’s challenging. I’m a morning person and prefer to get going right away. My nine-year-old is a night owl and has been since birth. Her creative juices get going about bedtime.

    While I am not willing to practice math facts late into the night, a recent question in a homeschool group regarding homeschooling in the evening, got me wondering: Are there certain times in the day that are better for homeschooling?

    What’s the Right Time of Day to Homeschool?

    Research suggests, yes, there are times in the day (or night) when our children learn best. Giving Students the (Right) Time of Day by Roger John Callan in the journal Educational Leadership discusses how looking at our circadian rhythms can help determine the best time to learn.

    The only caveat is that our rhythms vary. Callan says,

    "Subsequent research has confirmed that some people reach their temperature peak before noon, some in the afternoon, and some in the evening. Hence, a picture emerges of the morning person, afternoon person, and evening person."

    My daughter and I are clearly on different rhythms.

    So, what is the best time of day to help each individual child learn? Callan says,

    “In the best of all possible worlds, each school district would have three parallel systems. The principal school for the majority of students would hold classes in the late morning through the afternoon. Two smaller schools—one open earlier in the morning and the other in the evening—would cater to the remaining students. Classes would begin just as the students began to approach their period of peak efficiency and understanding. For most students, according to the research of Dunn and Dunn (1993), that time is mid-morning—about 11 a.m. A significant number of students, however, are morning people. And there are evening people, as well.”

    In the article, Does Time-of-Day of Instruction Impact Class Achievement?, Amanda J. Wile and Gary A. Shouppe, out of Columbus State University agree. They considered a number of studies centered around the best times to teach children and found, “Learning-styles research reveals increased learning occurs when a student is taught and assessed at their preferred time-of-day.”

    The National Sleep Foundation also agrees but notes our circadian rhythms can change: “Changes to this circadian rhythm occur during adolescence when most teens experience a sleep phase delay. This shift in teens’ circadian rhythm causes them to naturally feel alert later at night, making it difficult for them to fall asleep before 11:00 pm.”

    While finding the right time for each child to learn, might feel impossible or even be impossible considering class schedules and family needs, paying attention to our children’s circadian rhythms may add insight when kids are struggling or feeling frustrated. It might make homeschooling feel a little more doable or explain why some of our kids are paying attention during reading time and others are flipping off the couch.

    In order to find the best time for our children to learn, we have to pay attention to several factors.

    Pay Attention to Sleep

    When does your child naturally fall asleep? When do they wake up? I have an early riser and one child that can only be compared to a snail in the morning. Is it possible to read or do math with your early bird and let your night owl sleep in a little?

    While we may assume it’s easier to have everyone learning at the same time, an individual schedule for each child could make learning a lot smoother.

    Pay Attention to Energy

    While a child’s energy level can certainly be linked to sleep and food, they can also have times of days they need to move. My son is ready to move the second he wakes up. When he was little, we often went on morning bike rides before breakfast. We’d get home, eat, and then he was ready to learn something new in his curriculum. If I tried reading with him before he moved, he could not sit still.

    Pay Attention to Hunger

    I am a fan of meal times. We sit down together as a family at least once if not twice a day. My daughter is rarely hungry during these times. She picks at her food and inevitably goes back to it later, once we have all finished. For years I tried to make her eat, and for years she told me she wasn’t hungry. Finally, I listened. Now, she happily sits with us (because family time is really why we are gathering) and eats later when she is actually hungry. This, in turn, helps her feel better and our learning time goes smoother.

    Pay Attention to Quiet

    We all need quiet. It recharges us and actually gives us energy. For my daughter, she seeks quiet when she wakes up. It’s important I give her plenty of time to wake up, get ready, and eat breakfast. She’s happy to get up earlier if it means she has this time. Rushing her out the door is never a good idea and always starts our day badly.

    Pay Attention to Focus

    My son is most focused mid-morning, my daughter at mid-afternoon and evening. I’m focused early in the morning while my husband is the oposite, preferring late at night. While we can’t always learn and work during our ideal times, it’s helpful to know this about ourselves and try to accommodate when we can.

    In a perfect world, our children learn when their bodies and minds are in sync. But let’s be honest, regardless of whether we are homeschooling one child or seven, it’s not always possible to give our children the exact thing they need at the exact moment they need it. Paying attention to their circadian rhythms does not mean we homeschool from dawn till dusk.

    It means we pay a little more attention and use the information when and if we can. It means we recognize why our children may be having a hard time sitting still and let them take breaks or jump on the trampoline. We don’t feel discouraged if our child is reading well past bedtime, or worry as much about having everyone do math at 10 am. Paying attention to each of our children’s natural rhythms (and our own) helps us remember that we are learning at our own speed and there is no one right speed in which to learn.

    Kelly Sage

    About the Author

    Kelly left teaching middle and high school English to homeschool her children and reclaim how she and her family spent their time. Followers of interest-led learning, her family’s days rarely look the same, but they tend to include a lot of books, art supplies, and time outside.

    Kelly facilitates local writing circles for women and children and blogs about nurturing the love of learning on her blog, Curiosity Encouraged. She loves to journal, read memoirs, hike, and travel. She seeks quiet mornings and good coffee daily.