Homeschool Advice

Dear Helping Hand,

We are beginner homeschoolers. We’ve been homeschooling my 4th grader since the beginning of the year. He absolutely hates it. What should I do?

Answer:

Most parents new to homeschooling go by the only model they know--the public school classroom. They set their schedule of subjects up and dive in. Unfortunately for the student, it’s the same thing they left, minus the friends and the fun. There are “perks” to homeschooling. Identify (or create) some. (Maybe he would like to sleep in and start a little later.) Unit studies give the student more control and tend to bring out the interest of the student. If you’re not comfortable with unit studies yet, try a small independent study of his choice. Lastly, check into learning styles. He may not be able to relate well to the way you teach. Don’t neglect to pray about it. God is faithful and He will supply all your needs.

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