We live in a world that is more connected than ever, allowing us to travel around the world and experience different cultures, environments and lifestyles. With increasing global mobility and technology, more families are opting to homeschool their children while traveling to maximize the educational opportunities offered by the experience. Homeschooling while traveling, however, throws up a number of questions and considerations – how can parents ensure a meaningful homeschooling education while traveling not to mention, keep their travels affordable?
In this article, we will look at fifteen questions that families need to ask themselves before embarking on a homeschooling journey.
1. How should homeschooling be organized?
Homeschooling while traveling will require an organized and flexible approach, designed to make maximum use of the educational opportunities presented by the experience. This involves creating a weekly schedule and plan, accounting for home-based activities, those that are traveler or instructor facilitated, and extracurricular activities. The plan should also consider times when the family will take breaks to relax and explore or take advantage of educational opportunities in their environment.
2. What type of curriculum should be used?
The type of curriculum used for homeschooling while traveling will depend on the child’s age and learning style, but it should generally be broad and eclectic. Parents should consider hands on activities, such as those found in museums and other cultural sites, that are both engaging and educational.
There are also numerous internet-based offerings, such as Khan Academy, as well as online classes, that can supplement the curriculum and provide further learning opportunities.
3. Are there any local homeschooling communities?
Many countries have homeschooling communities that can provide guidance, assistance and social opportunities. Parents should investigate these in advance and research the laws of the country or state they plan to visit to ensure homeschooling will be allowed. Joining a local community or associating with other homeschooling families can also be invaluable for expanding networks, creating a sense of belonging and sparking learning opportunities.
4. Are there any resources available for homeschooling?
Numerous resources are available to support families during their homeschooling travels. These range from homeschooling magazines, blogs and websites to tutorials, e-books and subject resources. Parents should take advantage of these as well as local libraries, which can often provide access to additional materials.
5. What kind of homeschooling programs would be suitable?
Parents can choose from a variety of homeschooling programs to suit their family. These can range from correspondence courses to online tutoring, self-directed curriculums and unschooling.
Parents should consider their child’s learning style, interests and needs when selecting a program, as well as their own comfort levels and any budgetary considerations.
6. What type of assessments will be needed?
Ensuring progress is being made is essential when homeschooling while traveling. Depending on the curriculum and/or program being used, parents will generally need to conduct assessments to measure the child’s learning outcomes.
These can range from simple checklists and reflections on learning to more formal tests and exams.
7. How can parents motivate their child to learn?
Motivating a child to learn can be challenging, especially when homeschooling while traveling. It is essential to foster a love of learning in your child and make learning a positive experience.
Parents can reward progress, encourage self-discovery and provide opportunities for exploration. It is also important to remember to take breaks, keep lessons short and varied, and to ensure children have regular rest times for optimum learning.
8. What support will be necessary when homeschooling?
The act of homeschooling requires parents to assume the dual roles of teacher and mentor, requiring them to provide advice, support, guidance and direction. In some cases, a tutor or instructor may need to be found to provide additional support. Parents should also consider any existing support systems, like those provided by local homeschooling groups.
9. What child safety issues need to be addressed?
Whenever traveling with children, safety should be paramount. This includes ensuring children are aware of the dangers of speaking to strangers and the risks posed by different environments and activities.
In addition, parents should be conscious of any local hazards and take appropriate precautions, such as using sunscreen, avoiding risky activities, and ensuring children are always supervised.
10. How can families keep the costs of homeschooling down?
Managing costs is always an issue when homeschooling and traveling. Parents can reduce expenses by opting for an inexpensive program, utilizing free resources, being selective about what activities to undertake, and being mindful of the best times to book flights, accommodation and activities. Parents should also remember to factor in any visa and insurance expenses that will be encountered during the trip.
11. Are there any challenges of homeschooling while traveling?
Homeschooling while traveling can certainly be challenging, and parents should be aware of potential issues before they embark on their journey. These challenges may include finding suitable teaching and learning areas, managing child behavior in public spaces, personal exhaustion, and meeting the needs of other family members.
While challenges are to be expected, wise preparation will help ensure a successful experience for everyone.
12. How can parents stay organized when homeschooling on the road?
Organization is essential when homeschooling while traveling. Parents can reduce stress and ensure smoother performance by making lists, scheduling regular breaks, maintaining a secure and comfortable learning area, and incorporating fun activities into their travel itinerary. Creating a dynamic plan and breaking it up into achievable targets can also help by ensuring there is time for rest, leisure, and learning all rolled into one.
13. What risks should families be aware of when homeschooling?
Homeschooling while traveling, much like any education, carries its own set of risks. Parents should be conscious of the physical, emotional and educational risks associated with their activities and understand the implications of these risks. Potential risks may include culture shock, exhaustion, poor planning, and gaps in the child’s education that can lead to learning difficulties.
14. What kind of legal requirements should parents be aware of?
Homeschooling legal requirements vary from state to state, so parents should research the legal requirements before planning their trip. Considerations may include what type of education is acceptable, whether parents need to register with the local school district before leaving, and whether or not assessments and/or testing is required.
15. What long-term benefits can children gain from homeschooling while traveling?
Homeschooling while traveling offers numerous long-term benefits for children. Not only do they gain a hands-on, experiential education, but they also develop cultural and language skills, as well as learning how to be adaptable and independent. Along the way, they will form friendships, learn how to manage their own emotions, and gain knowledge and understanding of the world around them – all of which can set them up for a successful future.
Conclusion
Homeschooling while traveling can be a rewarding and beneficial experience for both parents and children, providing them with learning opportunities and personal growth. However, to ensure a successful and safe voyage, families must ensure they are well-prepared and familiar with the destinations they will be visiting so as to maximize the educational and unique experiences that these excursions will bring.