Homeschooling has become an increasingly popular option for many families–providing flexibility to teach their children themselves in the comfort of their own home. But what exactly is homeschool?
How can families know what their children need to know in order to succeed in a homeschool setting? This article will answer these questions and provide 15 essential skills for parents to consider when preparing their children for homeschool.
What Is Homeschool?
Homeschooling is an educational option whereby parents choose to teach their children at home–providing personalized instruction tailored to their individual interests, learning styles, and personalities. Homeschooling is an attractive option for those who prefer one-on-one instruction, don’t conform to traditional school settings, or would like to create unique learning experiences for their children. Additionally, homeschooled students typically enjoy more autonomy than their traditional-schooling peers and benefit from working at their own pace.
The overall goal of homeschooling is not only to facilitate learning, but to also help children reach their fullest potential.
What Skills Does My Child Need to Succeed in a Homeschool Setting?
Succeeding in a homeschool setting requires a variety of skills, from organization and self-discipline to the ability to think independently and problem-solve. Here are 15 essential skills for parents to consider when preparing their children for homeschool: Learning to be Self-Motivated.
Self-motivation is key as there’s no teacher in a homeschool setting that can motivate a student to take initiative or push them to complete their work. Self-motivation is also essential for completing assignments without the support of a teacher or tutor.
Developing Problem-Solving Skills. For those in a homeschool setting, the ability to think independently and problem-solve is necessary for understanding material and finding creative ways to approach a situation.
It’s also crucial for creating solutions to any problems a student may encounter.
Showing Self-Discipline. Homeschooling requires a certain level of self-discipline in order to stay on task without the presence of a teacher. This means setting a schedule and following it, completing assignments in a timely manner, and taking breaks when necessary.
Knowing Time Management.
Time management can be difficult for those in a homeschool setting due to the large amounts of freedom provided. Being able to manage time effectively is essential for completing work in a timely manner, as well as dedicating time for any extra-curricular activities. Being Comfortable with Technology. Technology is a large part of the current educational environment, so being familiar with and comfortable using it is a must for any homeschool student. This includes being able to utilize the internet for research, navigating online programs, or using educational apps or websites. Possessing Good Listening Skills. Learning at home can be a lonely experience, necessitating good listening skills as a way to keep up with the concepts being taught. This means paying attention to what the parent or other resources are saying and being able to effectively process information. Understanding Prioritization. Prioritization is essential for managing time and tasks in a homeschool setting. This can include making choices about which assignments to complete first, breaking complex tasks down into manageable chunks, and setting milestones for completing projects. Becoming Independent. Homeschooled students must be able to work independently and self-monitor their progress to stay on track. This involves being comfortable working solo as well as being able to recognize areas of improvement and make changes accordingly. Using Note-Taking Skills. Note-taking is a valuable skill for any student–regardless of the educational setting. It’s important for students to be able to efficiently record information during lessons and write down their ideas, questions, and observations. Knowing Study Habits. Developing effective study habits is a must for any homeschool student. This means understanding how to break down complex textbooks, knowing how to practice test material, and being able to focus without the presence of a teacher. 1 Exhibiting Organization. Being able to organize and keep track of assignments is important for any homeschool student. This includes creating an effective filing system for keeping track of assignment due dates, supplies, and other materials. 1 Possessing Patience. Patience is an essential skill for those teaching themselves, especially when it comes to understanding new concepts. It’s important for students to be comfortable taking their time when needed and viewing mistakes as learning opportunities. 1 Being Flexible. Flexibility is vital for adapting to the homeschooling environment, as there’s always room to change things up when needed. This includes being willing to try new methods or approaches to learning, changing up the lesson plan, or switching up the daily routine. 1 Using Critical Thinking Skills. Critical thinking skills are important for any student, but especially those in a homeschool setting. This includes being able to understand a concept, recognize different points of view, and evaluate various solutions to an issue. 1 Developing Self-Confidence. Lastly, homeschooled students should strive to develop self-confidence–believing in their own abilities and being comfortable with their learning style. This is important for being able to take risks and take ownership of their education.
Conclusion
Homeschooling can be an effective and rewarding educational option, but it’s important for parents to make sure their children are prepared for the journey. The 15 skills outlined in this article–from self-motivation, problem-solving, and self-discipline to technology, listening, and independent working–are all essential for any homeschool student’s success. With the right preparation, homeschoolers can gain the confidence and skills they need to excel in this unique educational setting.