5 Tips for Choosing a Curriculum: A Guide for New Homeschooling Parents
Choosing a homeschool curriculum can be a daunting task for parents new to homeschooling. There are a multitude of options– which sometimes adds to the overwhelm– making it essential to consider certain factors for finding one that aligns with your family goals and child’s learning style.
To simplify the decision-making process, we have created a helpful questionnaire that will assist you in organizing your thoughts and find a suitable curriculum for your child. Here are some tips to consider:
1. Determine your preferred teaching approach:
As a homeschooling parent, you have the option of selecting a preferred teaching approach. Will you want a highly structured approach with detailed lessons, worksheets, assignments and deadlines? Or do you prefer a relaxed and child-lead approach. As you will be the leader of your homeschool, you may also opt for a semi-flexible approach. This is how I would describe the approach we take at Birdie Clubhouse (learn more HERE). It has structure and worksheets but is still flexible. You can learn more about different types of homeschool teaching approaches HERE.
2. Consider your child’s learning style:
You may already have an idea of the learning style your child will thrive in. If you’re not sure, it's still perfectly normal. In my experience all your lessons do not have to be strictly one type of learning style. Research tells us that the more modes of information input your child is exposed to, the better. Also, as children become older, their way of picking up information also changes. Usually younger kids start learning using plenty of visuals and as they get older, they may change to rely more on verbal and written information.
3. Identify your homeschooling goals + priorities:
Before diving into curriculum options, it's essential for you to get clarification on your homeschooling goals. Use our questionnaire to help you organize your thinking process. It will assist you in learning about your priorities and homeschooling goals. Some things to consider: your reasons for homeschooling and values. Click HERE to access the questionnaire.
4. Available Resources + Support:
Consider the resources you are comfortable using and which ones can support your chosen curriculum and teaching approach. Do you want to do all the teaching or would you like part-time assistance from an educator? Will you be using local clubs or online classes? Can you use your local library for teaching resources or workshops? If you’re interested in joining a homeschool program, check out Birdie Clubhouse. Here we assist with teaching, resources, and organize field trips.
5. NO such thing as PERFECT:
Do to not try to find the perfect curriculum because chances are there won’t be one lol. I would say to start with one you like and feel comfortable following. Many people, including us in our program, use a mix of resources and curriculums. We primarily use the Oak Meadow curriculum. I also make my own worksheets when I can’t find something that will best suit our students. Try not focusing so much on curriculum as even if you decide on one, you can always use other resources to supplement, add, subtract…..divide (lol jk), you get it.
By clearly defining your homeschooling goals, considering your child’s learning style, assessing your teaching approach and using our questionnaire, you will be equipped to make an informed decision. Homeschooling is highly personal and unique for each family, the curriculum you choose will empower you and your child in your educational pursuits.
Utilizing the questionnaire provided will keep your homeschooling goals at the forefront and you'll be on your way to selecting a curriculum fit for your family. Go to questionnaire.
Our Birdie Clubhouse is an all inclusive homeschool program for families that want to be less overwhelmed and still take part in their child’s learning. We help with the lesson plans, the instruction/lecture, meetups and field trips 🎉🎉
HAPPY HOMESCHOOLING!
