Homeschooling families have to be sure to cover the basics, like reading, math, and history (just to name a little). However, subjects like art, music, and drama are important in helping raise well-rounded individuals. With limited budgets, resources, and time, how can homeschooling families fit it all in?
The public school system often cuts into programs like art and music when budgets tighten. This is in great contrast to some of the current trends in baby care, which include CD's of classical music produced especially for babies and young children, and videos that introduce babies to classic music and art. So, why the disparity? A lot of research has shown how music in particular might be beneficial to the growth and development of parts of the brain that deal with spatial awareness and patterns, which may lead to better math and science skills as the child grows. Yet, when our children reach school age, many schools choose to weaken the fine arts programs when budget cuts come. These subjects are seen as extra-curricular, instead of an essential component to a good education.
Homeschooling families have a great opportunity to fill in the gap. Many homeschooling curriculums weave art, music, drama, and other fine arts into their lesson plans. Even if yours does not, or you want more, there are lots of ways to add these things to your family's learning. Although the fine arts encompasses more than just art and music, these are the two things we will focus on.
- Listen - Music surrounds us. It is on the radio, CD's, television, movies, and in the rhythm of everyday sounds we hear, like a bird's song. Classical music is a good place to start a music appreciation education. Listen to your local classical station. Check out a book about a classical music composer, read it together, then listen to a CD of his or her music.
- Look - Like music, art is everywhere. Look at art that is in your home; discuss different styles of illustrators in children's picture books; look at books on art and artists and talk about the art - how does it make you feel? Describe it. What do you think it is about?; go to local art museums - take your time and explore.
- Learn - Take an art class or learn to play an instrument. These can be life-long skills.
Look for more about art and music coming soon!
