Preschool Homeschooling

Preschool Homeschooling

Reader Question:

Hi Judy,

So glad to have found your web site! I'm mother of two, seven-months and three-years, and am contemplating homeschooling but don't have a clue where to start. Every mom I run in to is asking me if my son is enrolled in preschool and seem shocked that he's not, and it made me wonder whether there's something I'm supposed to be doing now for him that I'm not already doing. This led me on my search on the web to find some info and others who might feel as I do about possibly homeschooling.

Anyway, I'm clueless about how or when to get started but it doesn't make sense to me to send him out of the home at three for what I consider glorified daycare -- but yet I still wonder if I'm doing enough at home now or if I'm capable of home schooling.

I would like a sample copy of your newsletter that you offer and maybe that's a place to start. Your web site has already been an inspiration to me. You do seem like Super Mom, though, when I just struggle to keep up with laundry, get meals together, and on an extra good day get a shower for myself! How do you do it?

If you have a speaking schedule or are going to be in or around Georgia I would like to know of this.

Thank you,

S. M

Judy’s Answer:

I enjoyed reading your email, as it brought me back twenty years. One of my favorite Bible texts states "and it came to pass." The place you are in now, will not last forever. Cherish it, because childhood goes by so fast, I know, I just became a grandmother! Now is the time for you to concentrate on your children and being the best mother you can be.

No, I'm not “super mom.” God didn't give me the ministry of AHE until my children were older (13, 11, 6, before #4) and homeschooling was a well established part of our home. Please don't compare your situation with mine, yours will only continue to change and improve as your children grow up.

You mentioned questions about preschool. It is unnecessary and like you say, glorified babysitting. (Granted, there will always be homes where children cannot learn and thrive and public education exists for this reason.) You can easily teach your preschooler at home without a lot of fuss and bother. Continue reading on the AHE web site, especially how to make learning a part of your home by reading, Creating a Learning Home.

You say that you “have a clue where to start.” Just by beginning to research and find information you are starting down a wonderful, exciting, pathway of a special time you’re your children. Be careful with your sons, boys mature at a later age than girls do, don't push your sons into early academics before they are ready. Studies show that boys outnumber girls 13—1 in remedial classes. Learn about the many ways you can "teach" without sitting down with workbooks.

Young children need a simple curriculum to enrich their environment that includes: 1) loving parents who are willing to take the time to respond to their questions; 2) a parent who spends lots of time reading true Bible and nature stories to them, and just spending time with them; 3) observation of things in nature, plants, bugs, birds, animals, and gardening, etc.; 4) learning phonics (sounds), colors, money, counting, and telling time in fun and unusual ways in the context of everyday experiences; 5) real life experiences such as where things come from, how we get things, etc.; 6) useful work inside and outside the home; 7) time in the kitchen with mother learning about health, measurement, and helping out in the home.

The Homeschool Primer will give you a great overview and introduction to homeschooling and give ideas for teaching young children. After you've read this, get The AHE Handbook which will give details on teaching, resources available and everything you need to know to be successful.

Begin to use Learning Projects as the core of your children's education and you will be richly rewarded with a simple, effective way of teaching and learning. There is a section in The AHE Handbook about Learning Projects along with several projects your sons will enjoy--one is titled All About Me. They will enjoy learning about themselves and their family and environment. Included are projects for preschoolers through high schoolers so you will use this resource for many years to come.

Yes, you are qualified to educate your children at home. In fact, I wrote You are Qualified to encourage mothers that they really are called to a special purpose. Right now, as a mother of young children you wonder and have doubts and this is normal. Begin by studying the Bible and Education along with homeschool resources mentioned; pray for guidance; and trust your instincts as a mother.

I don't have any speaking engagements in Georgia, but will consider any that might come up. Maybe you want to help organize one? Write back anytime. May God bless you as you raise your children for Him.

In His Love,

~Judy

Recently, I received a telephone call. The mother wanted to order The AHE Handbook and The Homeschool Primer. After exchanging information, she said. “I’m going to a curriculum fair tomorrow; can you tell me what to buy for my child?”

I asked her how old her child was and she replied “three-years-old.” My heart sank, and I wondered to myself how did we get to the place where three-year-olds needed a "canned" curriculum?

I took a deep breath, sent up a prayer and answered. “You don’t need to buy any curriculum tomorrow.” I explained to her that preschoolers don’t need a lot of seat work or workbook-type activities. Then I added, “If you’d like to purchase something, get real books to read to your child, art and craft supplies and maybe some hands-on activities. But please stay away from the canned-curriculums for pre-schoolers that you will certainly find there.”

Here’s why I advised her in this way… Studies have overwhelming shown that little children thrive in the loving home atmosphere. Children are not ready for the classroom situation; this includes the classroom books and learning schedule, until mature—about 8-10 years of age.

A Smithsonian Institute researcher did a study on what circumstances help create intelligence. Here are the three points; 1) plenty of time to explore and use their own natural creativity; 2) very little time with their peers; and 3) warm responsive parents.

Of these three points, none of them involve purchasing a preschool curriculum. They do involve parental time, interest and attention. And this is the key, an involved, caring adult!

~Judy