Two Ways Children Can Help Create Homeschool Lessons
Educating our children at home has given us the ability to have freedom and flexibility in choosing topics throughout the school year. In the beginning of our journey I took it upon myself to choose what we studied but over the past two years I have incorporated the children in those decisions. Though they don’t sit with me through finalizing curriculum options, I often discuss things with them and ask for their feedback. Obtaining their opinion allows me to construct and cater the free time in our curriculum to their interests.
The first way I allow my children to help create homeschool lessons is by our annual end of the year wrap-up interview. Each year I interview my children and have them share their thoughts about our current homeschool journey. During this time I ask them several open-ended questions and from their answers I am able to make a few adjustments as we enter the New Year. Since children’s interests change I like to stay on top of their current obsession so it can be carefully fostered. By adding experiences to their interests we are able to take them from brief thoughts to unit studies and possibly include a field trip.
Of course, the end of the year interview does help me create a few lessons here and there but since children’s curiosities change I also have them complete a monthly research project. On the first of each school month we discuss things we might want to research, narrow down the topics, and then gather our materials from the library. Yes, even my Preschooler and Kindergartener participate in this assignment but I assist them in finding the right books for research. Of course my 5th grader easily navigates his way through this and my husband and I have also started participating as well. By including a monthly research topic I have given them another chance to explore and we all enjoy learning from each other’s presentations.
At the Team Kemp Academy the interviews and monthly research projects give our children a sense of responsibility for their education. I am grateful for the opportunity to educate my children at home and as a result I am present to aid them from childhood education to becoming a lifetime learner.
Ta’Neisha Kemp – I’m a proud wife that spontaneously serenades her husband in public. I’m a cool mom that has dance battles with her children. I’m the keep it real friend that doesn’t tell your business. I’m also the lady that cries actual tears while watching romantic comedies. I’m also the lady that cries actual tears while watching romantic comedies and reading books. If you’re a homeschool teacher that enjoys a quick “I totally understand” moment in between subjects and chores, then we just became best friends. I’m a proud believer, living a balanced life where taking care of my family is my ministry!
Blog: Marriage, Motherhood, and Makeup http://taneishakemp.com
