Homeschool with Style

Many homeschool parents search for a long time when choosing the right curriculum for their children. Many things go into the decision, like cost, ease-of-use, and underlying philosophy (is it faith-based? or is it classical?).

Another big factor in a curriculum decision is the learning style of the child. If a child is a visual learner, a parent may lean towards a curriculum with DVD's or computer courses. A kinesthetic learner likes to move and explore, and may not respond well to a curriculum of intense reading and writing.

Just as all people have their own style of learning, each teacher has their own style of teaching. This should also be considered when choosing a curriculum, planning for a school year, or when planning how to best make homeschool successful.

Homeschooling requires even more teacher-student time than traditional schooling. Teachers in a traditional classroom may only spend a few minutes with each individual student per day, whereas a parent-teacher spends much more time one-on-one with their students. So teaching styles may have an even bigger impact in the homeschool class than in a class of many students.

Curriculums arranged around a different teaching style than your own may make it hard to teach effectively. For instance, a parent who is very creative and does not go "by-the-book" may not teach well with a strict, step-by-step approach. Or a parent who feels more comfortable teaching with a script or manual may not do well with an eclectic approach.

When teaching styles and learning styles clash, problems can ensue. However, being aware of differing styles can help prevent problems. A parents and a child can exist peacefully in the same homeschool, even when they each have different styles, as long as adjustments are made.

Follow these steps to help understand teaching and learning styles:

• Learning about learning styles. Understanding the learning style of your child and of yourself will help you better evaluate your own teaching methods and your curriculum
• Learn about teaching styles. These are not as well-known as learning styles, and may vary. Still, knowing your teaching style will help you find a curriculum that is as good a fit for you as for your child.
• Be aware of the Theory of Multiple Intelligences. Knowing where you and your child fit in can help point to strengths and weaknesses in your current curriculum.
• Also be aware of when you schedule your homeschool time. This can also impact the effectiveness of any curriculum.

Being aware of teaching styles can help parents learn to homeschool better.

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