Author: Oak Meadow Author
Adjusting to Homeschooling Mid-Year
Making the decision to switch gears and begin homeschooling—or to switch curriculum—partway through the school year takes courage and faith. Whatever you were doing before wasn’t working, and whatever you are beginning hasn’t had time to feel routine yet. Here are ten suggestions to ease the way. 1. Different philosophy; different approach. Students who have
Continue readingTips for Playing the Recorder
Music plays a very positive role in your child’s development, whether it is through listening to music, singing songs, or playing an instrument. In the first grade, Oak Meadow offers an introduction to the soprano recorder as a musical instrument to play, along with additional, more advanced tutelage offered up through the fourth grade. The
Continue readingHomeschool Rhythms
What do you think of when you hear the term, homeschool rhythms? It could mean many things, but for each family, the homeschooling rhythms will be unique as they segue into personal school lessons and extracurricular activities. As you establish a rhythm for your family, keep in mind that it should never be a burden, nor end up as a
Continue readingOrganizing Your Homeschool Day
Many parents wonder how best to organize their time when using Oak Meadow or other homeschooling curriculum. There is no one right way to approach homeschool planning, so go at it with an open mind! Try something that appeals to you, then fine-tune your process as you discover what works well for you and your
Continue readingThe Freedom to be Flexible
One of the most valuable benefits of homeschooling is flexibility. Flexibility to dive deeply into one topic. Flexibility to develop a passion. Flexibility to travel, to take advantage of unexpected opportunities, and just slow down and enjoy family time. Many families tell us that this flexibility is the reason they able to “live their learning”
Continue reading12 Reasons Why Handwriting Is Important
1. The brain engages differently when we write something by hand as opposed to typing it on a keyboard or by touching a screen. Studies show that writing improves memory; students retain learning better when working with new ideas through handwriting instead of typing. 2. Engaging the body in writing by hand helps make writing
Continue readingPositive Teaching!
Most of you are beginning (or are preparing to begin) your new school year. Everyone is refreshed and ready to jump into this new educational adventure. In your preparations, many of you will ask, “What is the best way to start this new school year?” One aspect that should be emphasized: there is truly nothing
Continue reading10 Ways to Include Heart in Your Homeschooling
1. Maintain your focus when giving your attention to your child. In today’s world, most of us find our attention divided, scattered in all directions. Giving your full attention to your child is one of the best ways you can support their learning. 2. Use humor as much as possible. Be silly, tell jokes, let
Continue readingWorking and Homeschooling
“I want to homeschool, but I need to work.” Is it really true that working parents cannot homeschool? It can be quite a challenge, but many families manage to do it successfully. Many working-and-homeschooling families challenge this assumption every single day. How? Consider all opportunities for flexibility in your work The more flexibility you have, the
Continue readingEnrolled or Independent?
Enrolled or independent? Many families who are interested in using Oak Meadow curriculum wonder whether their family’s needs would best be met through using our materials independently or enrolling in our distance learning program. This is one of the most common questions parents ask us as they seek to find the right homeschooling fit. We are happy
Continue reading