So, what curriculum do you use?

This is usually the first question you hear when two homeschoolers meet for the first time, isn't it?   I don't use a packaged curriculum, I but choose materials based on our learning goals as well as the children's interests.  I do have to keep the NY State regulations in mind as I plan as well.

I was once asked by a family member who is not familiar with homeschooling, "But how do you know what to teach?"  I probably shouldn't have shocked her so cruelly, but I replied "I just teach the kids what I want them to learn."  (hee-hee!)  I did go on to explain the State regulations, which are pretty strict here in NY state, and I guess that made her feel a little better. 

I really do teach the kids what I want them to learn, but I also keep an eye on the typical course of study as well as our state regulations when making my yearly plan.  This provides a framework, a kind of structure to build on, which I then fill in with the best materials I can find.  MANY of them are found right at our local library.  I love literature based studies and we do a lot of reading aloud.  I really enjoy pulling together a custom curriculum this way, and I love the flexibility.  As far as consumables, we don't do a lot but there are a few I really like.  They are Handwriting Without Tears, Explode the Code, and Bright Minds math workbooks.



Does it take more time to use a self-made curriculum?  NO WAY!   Best of all, there is no time wasted because everything we do is 100% relevant to what my kids need right now.  And I don't mind any of the time it takes, because we are having a blast!  We love to learn and there are not really set boundaries around what is "school time" and what is not.    I don't have many responsibilities outside the home, and I can't think of a better way to spend my time than this.  I am so pleased to be able to give my kids a curriculum that is as unique as they are.  To be able to get away from the cookie-cutter style of learning in the public schools is one of the reasons most of us choose homeschooling, isn't it?

If you have thought about putting together your own custom curriculum but didn't know where to start, take a look at some of Ruth Beechick's books.  "The Three R's" series, "A Biblical Home Education" and "Yes!  You Can Teach your Child Successfully" helped to give me the confidence to do what was best for my kids.

Happy Homeschooling!

10:33 AM - Sep. 24, 2007 - post comment

Bright MInds

I like your style. I have a 4 yo DS and currently we are not using any workbooks, although sometimes I will have him do a letter worksheet from a free site if he's bored. He's not a writer yet. So far, math has been very free form, but I am always thinking ahead and am wondering what it is about Bright Minds math that you like. Thanks.

jennybell68 - 8:34 PM - Oct. 12, 2007

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Hi

I am also in upstate new york, and our kids are almost exactly the same ages. Mine are 7, 5 and 2! They are in public school right now, but we are praying about bringing them home after the Christmas break. Would you have time to email me?
Thanks!
Stacy

Anonymous - 12:05 PM - Oct. 15, 2007

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Stacy

I haven't had much time for blogging lately and didn't see this comment until just today. We can talk over email if you would like! My address is eight90eight@yahoo.com

BethanyJill - 10:08 AM - Nov. 7, 2007

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hello

I too am in NY and have not yet begun to homeschool but I do preschool with my three year old and I am thrilled to find another new yorker...I just moved here five mo ago and am so cold but it really is lovely here.

dukygurl - 10:04 PM - Dec. 30, 2007

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