As students, many of us shuddered at the word. As homeschool parents, we still don't like it much.
One of the most common questions homeschoolers get asked is, "How do you teach subjects you don't like or aren't very good at?" This is truly one of the biggest challenges of homeschooling. Not every homeschool parent is great at every subject, and some of us stumbled as students in math, science, language arts, or another major subject.
For those of us who struggle with math, how can we teach it?
Learn Along
Homeschool parents who began teaching their children from the start have the benefit of learning alongside their children. Since math is learned in a definite sequence, starting to learn alongside your children and reviewing the basics can help you refresh and be better able to grasp difficult concepts.
Make it Fun
Have fun with numbers. Small children may enjoy using Goldfish crackers to help sovle equations. They can physically build the equations by making piles of crackers, and learn addition, subtraction, multiplication and division by manipulating those piles.
Older children can enjoy playing games online and offline that build math skills.
Apply It
Look for real-life applications to the various math functions you are teaching. For example, paint a fence to learn about area. Go shopping and calculate how much you have saved using coupons. Encourage sports-minded children to calculate statistics. For more ideas on applying math to daily life, consider books like "Mathematics for Consumers" or "Life Skills Mathematics" (available in the Homeschool Skills store (http://homeschool.storenvy.com/collections/20835-books-math)).
Refresher Course
As a college student, I have the added "benefit" (some days it feels like a curse) of taking several required math courses for my degree. I seize these opportunities and try to dread them less because I realize that these classes better prepare me to teach my own children. I strongly recommend parents who have the time and resources to attend classes at a local community college, online school or other institution. It can be a wonderful experience, and it helps you teach your children by example the great value of continuing your education.
Tutors
If math is a subject you feel you can't handle, hire a tutor to teach in your home. Sit in the lessons with your children, and learn how to grasp those concepts. Like attending outside college classes, this helps teach your children the value of continuing learning.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Monday, April 4, 2011
Homeschool Conventions
he season of homeschool conventions is upon us. From coast to coast, there are dozens of major homeschool convention planned before the end of summer. These conventions feature keynote speakers, workshops, fun activities for kids, vendors, and so much more.
While the cost and time demands may deter participation, the opportunity is often worth the cost. Those who have previously attended homeschool conventions can and usually will attest to the benefits of attendance.
The following information is a simple crash-course introduction to the general world of homeschool conventions. For more information, research the specific homeschool convention you will be attending. Links to convention calendars at the bottom of this post!
What
Homeschool conventions are large events organized by homeschool groups, individuals or businesses. Most conventions feature prominent speakers, workshops, exhibits, vendors, and luncheons. Some feature family nights, contests, graduations, talent shows, and other planned activities.
There are several common convention terms that convention-goers should be familiar with.
Keynote: 'Keynote' addresses are speeches given by a speaker of significance, usually a highly credentialed or commonly recognized figure in the homeschooling community. Keynote events are given special importance and are often scheduled without any conflicting or concurrent activities. The names of keynote speakers are easy to find, as they are usually prominently included in all advertising material.
Workshops: Conventions often feature many concurrent workshops that attendees can select from. These workshops are often short and cover a wide variety of homeschooling topics.
Vendor / Exhibitor / Sponsor: These people are attending the workshop to show and sell their products. Usually, these products are assembled in a large vendor exhibit area where attendees can view them.
Who
Homeschool conventions benefit prospective, new and seasoned homeschoolers.
New and prospective homeschoolers benefit immensely from the knowledge and expertise of their seasoned counterparts. The information given by keynote speakers and workshops can be priceless.
Seasoned homeschool pros can benefit from the ideas, encouragement and products presented at these conventions. The annual homeschool convention season can revitalize bored homeschoolers and inspire homeschooling families for the next year.
Why
At the very least, conventions are very encouraging. Being in the company of hundreds (or more!) fellow homeschoolers sends the clear message that, despite how you may feel some days, you are not alone. Conventions can also invigorate the homeschooling spirit by infusing tired, curriculum-weary homeschoolers with new ideas and goals.
Since conventions are area-specific, they give homeschoolers the opportunity to meet and forge friendships with one another.
Speakers usually have significant experience and credentials in their areas of expertise. They are able to provide guidance and direction that can help give your homeschool direction and purpose. If you are struggling with any aspects of homeschooling, look for a convention that offers workshops on those subjects. Attending those workshops can help strengthen those areas of weakness and enrich your homeschool experience.
Conventions attract the best homeschooling products to one central location. Instead of shopping around at different retailers or buying and trying products that don't really fit your needs, shopping the vendors at a convention bring the products to you, in one room. The newest and best products are usually exhibited there, and you may be surprised at what you find! Deals and trial memberships are also common convention offerings.
When & Where
Find homeschool conventions in your area by searching the Internet or contacting your local homeschool organization. I recommend the following sites:
http://www.homeschoolconventions.com/
http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/cms_content?page=1140380&sp=1016&event=1016
http://thehomeschoolmagazine.com/HomeschoolConventions.php
While the cost and time demands may deter participation, the opportunity is often worth the cost. Those who have previously attended homeschool conventions can and usually will attest to the benefits of attendance.
The following information is a simple crash-course introduction to the general world of homeschool conventions. For more information, research the specific homeschool convention you will be attending. Links to convention calendars at the bottom of this post!
What
Homeschool conventions are large events organized by homeschool groups, individuals or businesses. Most conventions feature prominent speakers, workshops, exhibits, vendors, and luncheons. Some feature family nights, contests, graduations, talent shows, and other planned activities.
There are several common convention terms that convention-goers should be familiar with.
Keynote: 'Keynote' addresses are speeches given by a speaker of significance, usually a highly credentialed or commonly recognized figure in the homeschooling community. Keynote events are given special importance and are often scheduled without any conflicting or concurrent activities. The names of keynote speakers are easy to find, as they are usually prominently included in all advertising material.
Workshops: Conventions often feature many concurrent workshops that attendees can select from. These workshops are often short and cover a wide variety of homeschooling topics.
Vendor / Exhibitor / Sponsor: These people are attending the workshop to show and sell their products. Usually, these products are assembled in a large vendor exhibit area where attendees can view them.
Who
Homeschool conventions benefit prospective, new and seasoned homeschoolers.
New and prospective homeschoolers benefit immensely from the knowledge and expertise of their seasoned counterparts. The information given by keynote speakers and workshops can be priceless.
Seasoned homeschool pros can benefit from the ideas, encouragement and products presented at these conventions. The annual homeschool convention season can revitalize bored homeschoolers and inspire homeschooling families for the next year.
Why
At the very least, conventions are very encouraging. Being in the company of hundreds (or more!) fellow homeschoolers sends the clear message that, despite how you may feel some days, you are not alone. Conventions can also invigorate the homeschooling spirit by infusing tired, curriculum-weary homeschoolers with new ideas and goals.
Since conventions are area-specific, they give homeschoolers the opportunity to meet and forge friendships with one another.
Speakers usually have significant experience and credentials in their areas of expertise. They are able to provide guidance and direction that can help give your homeschool direction and purpose. If you are struggling with any aspects of homeschooling, look for a convention that offers workshops on those subjects. Attending those workshops can help strengthen those areas of weakness and enrich your homeschool experience.
Conventions attract the best homeschooling products to one central location. Instead of shopping around at different retailers or buying and trying products that don't really fit your needs, shopping the vendors at a convention bring the products to you, in one room. The newest and best products are usually exhibited there, and you may be surprised at what you find! Deals and trial memberships are also common convention offerings.
When & Where
Find homeschool conventions in your area by searching the Internet or contacting your local homeschool organization. I recommend the following sites:
http://www.homeschoolconventions.com/
http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/cms_content?page=1140380&sp=1016&event=1016
http://thehomeschoolmagazine.com/HomeschoolConventions.php
Friday, April 1, 2011
Legal Organizations
Last Monday, Homeschool Skills featured an article about a New Hampshire homeschool student who was ordered to attend public school. While this case was certainly unique in many cases, it is nonetheless alarming.
Homeschooling is legal in all 50 states. However, state laws vary in complexity and, just because it is legal, doesn't always mean that homeschooling is easy. Although there is a brief overview of each state's homeschooling law on the Laws page of this website, the laws for some states are extremely complex.
While this may seem overwhelming, it doesn't need to be. Several different organizations exist to help homeschoolers with the legal aspects of homeschooling.
The two most prominent of these organizations are HSLDA (Homeschool Legal Defense Association) and HLA (Homeschool Legal Advantage). Both of these organizations are dedicated to defending homeschooling.
Below is a brief overview of each organization for your consideration.
Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) (http://www.hslda.org/)
HSLDA is a nonprofit that defends and advances homeschooling. Tens of thousands of homeschool families maintain membership in this organization. Membership is paid for in one year, two year, five year, lifetime or monthly increments.
As a nonprofit, all of the membership fees are directed toward operational expenses. HSLDA uses the fees to directly defend homeschool members in legal cases, monitor and influence federal legislation, assist state legislatures in creating homeschool-friendly environments, advocate in the media, research and present information about homeschooling.
The cost of membership is the only price that members pay. If a legal situation arises and the family seeks help from HSLDA, there are no further charges. All attorneys fees, travel expenses, and other related charges are paid by HSLDA. Legal advice is available 24/7 via telephone.
HSLDA membership also offers additional benefits, such as access to an Online Curriculum Market, HSLDA PerX program, and access to coordinators that specialize in high school homeschooling, homeschooling struggling learners, and homeschooling younger children (preschool to middle school).
HSLDA does not accept families who use charter schools, public school independent study programs, or similar distance-learning courses as members. Membership discounts are available to discount groups, full-time pastors, full-time missionaries, or active/retired/disabled military service members. Special membership offers are available here: http://www.hslda.org/join/offers.asp
Homeschool Legal Advantage (HLA) (http://homeschoollegaladvantage.com/)
HLA has defended more than 8,000 cases and maintains a network of full-time and affiliated attorneys throughout the United States. As an outreach of the Christian Law Association, HLA offers its members free legal representation in cases that involve religious liberty but are not directly affiliated with homeschooling (such as workplace discrimination).
Membership fees for HLA are based on suggested donations instead of flat fees. The suggested donation for membership is $65 for the first year and $51 per year after that. Would-be members who cannot afford the full suggested donation are welcome to pay less. According to the HLA website, "If you cannot afford any donation at this time, but would still like to join, please contact us and we'll be glad to provide you with a complimentary membership. Whatever your circumstance, we want to be of service and will never let finances stand in the way." (Widows and widowers can enter "James 1:27" in the registration code field for a complimentary membership at any time.)
HLA members also receive a last will and testament drafted by an attorney, a 20% discount on resources from the Christian Law Association and 10% off admission to the Creation Museum (near the Cincinnati airport). HLA also operates a 24-hour emergency legal help line.
Homeschooling is legal in all 50 states. However, state laws vary in complexity and, just because it is legal, doesn't always mean that homeschooling is easy. Although there is a brief overview of each state's homeschooling law on the Laws page of this website, the laws for some states are extremely complex.
While this may seem overwhelming, it doesn't need to be. Several different organizations exist to help homeschoolers with the legal aspects of homeschooling.
The two most prominent of these organizations are HSLDA (Homeschool Legal Defense Association) and HLA (Homeschool Legal Advantage). Both of these organizations are dedicated to defending homeschooling.
Below is a brief overview of each organization for your consideration.
Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) (http://www.hslda.org/)
HSLDA is a nonprofit that defends and advances homeschooling. Tens of thousands of homeschool families maintain membership in this organization. Membership is paid for in one year, two year, five year, lifetime or monthly increments.
As a nonprofit, all of the membership fees are directed toward operational expenses. HSLDA uses the fees to directly defend homeschool members in legal cases, monitor and influence federal legislation, assist state legislatures in creating homeschool-friendly environments, advocate in the media, research and present information about homeschooling.
The cost of membership is the only price that members pay. If a legal situation arises and the family seeks help from HSLDA, there are no further charges. All attorneys fees, travel expenses, and other related charges are paid by HSLDA. Legal advice is available 24/7 via telephone.
HSLDA membership also offers additional benefits, such as access to an Online Curriculum Market, HSLDA PerX program, and access to coordinators that specialize in high school homeschooling, homeschooling struggling learners, and homeschooling younger children (preschool to middle school).
HSLDA does not accept families who use charter schools, public school independent study programs, or similar distance-learning courses as members. Membership discounts are available to discount groups, full-time pastors, full-time missionaries, or active/retired/disabled military service members. Special membership offers are available here: http://www.hslda.org/join/offers.asp
Homeschool Legal Advantage (HLA) (http://homeschoollegaladvantage.com/)
HLA has defended more than 8,000 cases and maintains a network of full-time and affiliated attorneys throughout the United States. As an outreach of the Christian Law Association, HLA offers its members free legal representation in cases that involve religious liberty but are not directly affiliated with homeschooling (such as workplace discrimination).
Membership fees for HLA are based on suggested donations instead of flat fees. The suggested donation for membership is $65 for the first year and $51 per year after that. Would-be members who cannot afford the full suggested donation are welcome to pay less. According to the HLA website, "If you cannot afford any donation at this time, but would still like to join, please contact us and we'll be glad to provide you with a complimentary membership. Whatever your circumstance, we want to be of service and will never let finances stand in the way." (Widows and widowers can enter "James 1:27" in the registration code field for a complimentary membership at any time.)
HLA members also receive a last will and testament drafted by an attorney, a 20% discount on resources from the Christian Law Association and 10% off admission to the Creation Museum (near the Cincinnati airport). HLA also operates a 24-hour emergency legal help line.
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