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Finding the Perfect Curriculum…
Even though our current school year is in full swing, I’m already planning ahead for next fall: curriculums, schedules, planners, start date, etc. I’ve also noticed the array of catalogs that are piling up in our mailbox each week from many different homeschool vendors. I LOVE browsing through the catalogs, seeking out that “perfect” curriculum. But you know what? I haven’t found the “perfect” curriculum and I probably never will. And that’s okay. Our family is unique and not every curriculum is going to work with how my children learn (or how I teach).
If there’s one thing I’ve learned in the six years we’ve been homeschooling it’s that we’re not a static family. We are constantly changing and growing and adapting. Our interests change, our horizons broaden and we adapt to new circumstances, situations and learning ideas. What worked for us this year may not work for us next year and what we used last year may be something we want to try again in two years when my children are older. And, what works for my family may not work for yours. And that’s okay, too. The beautiful thing about homeschooling is the fluidness of it – like changing curriculums mid-year if the children are so frustrated that their eyes pop out of their heads at the mere mention of the subject.
So, as your family considers curriculums and schedules for next fall take it all in stride. Throw stress out the window and kick its partner, worry, to the curb. No matter what curriculum you choose or what schedule you plan, place it all in God’s hands. As the superintendent of our school (my hubby is the principal), God is in control. When we honor God in our school and place Him above all else, the rest just falls into place.
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I think that is so true. I’m finding that when we are in the Word and talking about what is pleasing to God all through out the day then, our days go so much smoother. Some curriculum I really like but, I know really homeschooling does not need to cost money.
If there was one thing I wish I had listened to better when I first started homeschooling, it would be just what you’re saying: “there is no, one, perfect, curriculum”. It would have helped me relax and enjoy our earliest years so much more. I found myself wanting to put all my hope in the curriculum, hoping it would take the pressure off me and do the work of perfectly homeschooling my children all by itself. After 14 years of this though, I’ve discovered that most of our best and most lasting teachable moments did not come from a comprehension question at the end of the book chapter. The things my kids truly absorb into their hearts and minds are from the projects we’ve worked on together as a family and the discussions we have about life.
It’s not about the end product – the search for the pot of gold (or perfect curriculum), it’s about the journey. The best lessons are learned in the trying of new methods, approaches or styles. Our growth as parents is in the learning about our children’s learning style, temperament, giftings, and interests and then looking for the resources that will build them up in those areas. Relax and enjoy the process, keep trying new things, stay open to new possibilities and most of all – Don’t Give Up!
Thanks for the comments, ladies!
Dusti, you’re absolutely right that curriculums don’t have to be expensive or even cost a dime! The Bible is a wonderful resource not only for history and reading practice, but also for diving in and living God’s Word daily.
Susanne, very well said. The journey itself is such a constant learning process and is just as important as meeting the goal itself (whether that’s tossing or finishing a curriculum or “winging” it for the year). Or, perhaps the goal for the year is to get closer to God (which is the ULTIMATE goal in life). Learning doesn’t stop or start with a curriculum as it’s a lifelong journey.