Episode 44

As I record this episode of the Art of Homeschooling podcast, I’m reflecting on the Taproot 2021 weekend and the questions holistic homeschoolers ask most often.

So this episode is a Q&A episode and I’ll answer three questions that often come up for those of us on this holistic homeschooling path.

These questions come up over and over again when homeschooling parents come together as we did this past weekend. Taproot’s all about supporting each other, sharing ideas, and seeking inspiration.

So I thought it’d be really helpful to dig into these questions here. And these aren’t the kind of questions that seemingly have a simple answer. Yet, my answers might surprise you!

Below, you’ll find highlights from my answers to the questions holistic homeschoolers ask. And a few helpful links for further reading and listening.

Question #1: How do I know if we’re doing enough?

- You get to decide! Really!
- Keep in mind that no teacher, homeschool or classroom, is ever finished teaching. There are ALWAYS more ideas, more books to read, more activities to do, and more things to learn.
- It’s so important to let the learning rest. Because children keep learning even when a subject is resting!
- Decide ahead of time when to move on from one subject or grade level to the next. For example, if you’re doing activities for an Ancient Egypt main lesson block for September, when the end of September rolls around, you’ve done enough. Or if your summer break starts in June, then when June arrives, you’ve done enough.
- Instead of thinking about teaching all about a subject, think about sparking curiosity, engaging in the subject, and leading activities in that subject.
- Call it enough, for now.

“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” ~William Butler Yeats

Question #2: What’s the best daily rhythm for our homeschool?

Know that there is no perfect or prescribed rhythm.
Start simple and build from there, remembering that a daily rhythm is not a rigid schedule. The energy ebbs and flows.
Rhythm is not a list of ALL THE THINGS that need to be done in a day.
Make a visual rhythm chart.
As much as possible, try to lay things out the night before.
Spend time with your youngest child first in order to give them the closeness and attention they need.

Question #3: How can we build a sense of community within our homeschooling family?

Rather than trying to replicate a grade by grade classroom experience in your homeschool, try to come together as much as possible to build a sense of community and shared experiences.
Gather together to start your day with a small ritual such as lighting a candle, singing a song, or reciting a poem.
Do as many activities as a family group as possible. Such as creating a main lesson block that combines grades, sharing main lesson stories all together on the couch, playing games together, or doing crafts and handwork together.
Celebrate or observe seasonal festivals together.
When you expand your circle and go out into the community, look for activities you can participate in as a family, like volunteer work, participating in a CSA, joining a club, group or co-op, or participating in sports that all ages can do together at their own level.

As a homeschooling parent, you’re at the helm, steering the ship as navigator and guide. And you have the freedom to chart the best course for yourself, your family, and your children.

Have confidence that you’re on the right path, homeschooling friend!

Find more resources for your journey here:

Episode 3: Relax into Your Homeschool Rhythm
Episode 14: Rhythm + Inner Work = Your Superpower
Free Rhythm Guide: Homeschool Rhythm Starter Kit

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