Finding the right Christian homeschool curriculum to fit both the student’s learning style and the family’s beliefs can be a tricky process. It also involves a great deal of research, time and energy.
Here are some questions to consider when making the right choice.
Points to Consider When Choosing a Christian Homeschool Curriculum
What style of teaching fits your family’s Christian beliefs? There are several different teaching methods that accommodate the varying beliefs of different Christian denominations.
Including classical education, Charlotte Mason, unit studies, and many others. All have good outcomes but can be quite different.
It’s not just about Christian-based teaching, but more about making sure the content is also in line with what it is being taught in the Bible. What learning styles does your child need?
Studies have shown that some students learn best with tactile activities, some with technology, and some with more traditional book-based approaches. It’s important to figure out which type of learning is best suited for your student and then find a curriculum that caters to their needs.
Do you have time and energy to devote to curriculum planning and teaching? This is an important question to consider as teaching your student will take a great deal of time and effort.
Many families find it helpful to supplement their custom curriculum with tools such as online classes or having their student join a local co-op.
What are you hoping to achieve? It’s important to think about goals for the child’s education. Are you looking for a fulfillment of basic requirements for graduation or are you seeking a more thorough education? This will help determine the type of curriculum needed for your family. Is there a specific culture or region you’re hoping to learn about? Region-specific curriculum can sometimes be more difficult to find but may be necessary if your student has an interest in a particular culture or its history. It’s best to investigate the curriculum thoroughly before making sure to make sure it fits with your student’s interests and your beliefs. Are there external experiences or specific extracurricular activities you would like to incorporate into your student’s education? Field trips, volunteer experiences, and other extracurricular activities can all help enhance a student’s learning. These activities should be incorporated into the curriculum to ensure a rounded educational experience. What resources are available to you? Homeschooling does not necessarily mean teaching solely from a book. There are many online resources, educational websites, and forums for both students and parents to become involved in the homeschool culture. These should take precedence when looking for additional curricular materials. Are you comfortable with the amount of technology used? Technology is ever-changing, and families should be comfortable with the level of technology being used in the curriculum. Just because certain programs are popular does not mean that they are the best for your family. If you are not comfortable with it, look for alternatives. How much help do you need? Do you need to outsource teaching or curriculum planning? Are you looking for outside resources to assist? Forming a support system of other parents and teachers is beneficial in ensuring that your student is getting the best education possible. What philosophy best fits your family’s beliefs? Different methods, such as Montessori, Waldorf, and Unschooling, have different philosophies behind them. Looking into these and deciding which one best fits with your beliefs is essential. It is also important to remember that there is no “one size fits all” approach to Christian homeschooling. 1 Is the curriculum self-paced or does it require skill assessment? Some students thrive in a self-paced, non-graded curriculum, while others need the external motivation of tests, grades, and expectations. It is important to find a curriculum that can accommodate the requirements of your student and adhere to more traditional methods if needed. 1 Does the curriculum provide additional activities and enrichment materials? Many Christian homeschooling curriculums provide additional activities, books, and materials to supplement the learning. This can include hands-on activities, online games, and additional practice opportunities for the student. 1 Is the curriculum tailored to a student’s age and skill level?Many Christian homeschool curriculums cater to a specific age or grade level. Be sure to research the curriculum and make sure that your student will be able to complete it and get the most out of it. 1 Are there any special requirements or course materials needed?Studying at home can require investments in special materials, such as science kits, art supplies, or computer programs. Knowing the materials needed to execute the curriculum and set up a proper environment can ensure a successful educational experience. 1 Is there additional support available?It’s important to make sure that your curriculum comes with additional support. This can include a help forum, phone line, or email access to ask questions about topics that come up during class.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Christian homeschool curriculum for both student and family can be a tough decision. Taking the time to answer these questions can make the decision process much easier, and ensure that the best choice is made.
Remember to do the research and find a curriculum that best suits your family’s needs. With the right curriculum, homeschooling can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience.