iHomeschool Network https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/ connecting homeschoolers through social media Thu, 07 Mar 2024 22:20:52 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://assets.ihomeschoolnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/21141449/iHomeschoolNetwork-Logo-Fav-icon.jpg iHomeschool Network https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/ 32 32 5 Ways Book Clubs Can Inspire Your Homeschool Kids to Read https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/book-clubs/ https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/book-clubs/#respond Tue, 26 Mar 2024 04:01:00 +0000 https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com//?p=22348 I started coming up with many different ideas to try to change my children’s way of thinking about reading. I knew they once loved to read. I just needed to get them excited about reading again. Along the way, I discovered five ways book clubs can inspire your kids to read.

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My son came home from college this weekend complaining about his British Literature class. His teacher had been assigning several hundred pages of reading each class, and he was having a hard time keeping up. However, he was especially furious about the quiz she gave over the reading the next class.

5 Ways Book Club Can Inspire Your Homeschool Child to Read

“I read all these pages of Beowulf and then she gives me a quiz asking the number of banners on the wall. Like, what?”

I looked at his father and sighed. Sadly, this wasn’t new.

Years ago, before we ever considered homeschooling, we had children who loved to read. They devoured books like they were chocolate. But, then I began to notice a change in them. Reading for fun became reading for comprehension. I know those sound like two things which should work together for good. But, sadly, it brought my kids to the brink of tears on a nightly basis.

You see, reading had become just another assignment. An assignment that was graded for comprehension based on what the teacher or the testing program deemed was the essential part of the story – like the year, or the location, or what the author’s name was, or even what was on the wall. Though sometimes those are important details, they are not always what might grab you and pull you into a story. It took some time, but I finally realized that reading assignments had destroyed my children’s love of reading.

When we decided to start homeschooling, I knew I had to immediately do something to change the way my children felt about reading. I began thinking of ways I could inspire them to love reading again. That’s when I started book clubs for my kids.

Book Clubs for Inspiration

I started coming up with many different ideas to try to change my children’s way of thinking about reading. They were once readers who had once enjoyed going on adventures in their imagination. I just needed to get them excited about reading again. Along the way, I discovered five ways book clubs could inspire a new love of reading in my kids.

1. Change of Atmosphere

Book clubs can inspire your kids to read by adding a party school atmosphere.

The easiest way to get kids on board with anything you do is to add snacks. You get double points if you decorate and throw in some hands-on fun. I combined all three of those into one big homeschool party. At the end of each month, we have huge parties to celebrate the book we have just finished reading. The kids know this is coming, and it builds excitement throughout the month.

2. Socialization and Books

Book clubs can inspire your kids to read by adding socialization.

It didn’t take me long to realize that social interaction with other children, plus the added benefit of treats, could open us up to a whole new area of education. We began to invite our friends to meet us for book club each month. When we started, we had one book club for my middle school daughter. Now, we have four book clubs of different age groups. Adding friends to our activities made my kids want to read the book because they knew that we would have a party with their friends at the end.

3. Letting Go of Pressure

Book clubs can inspire your kids to read by taking the assignment out of reading assignment.

I began thinking of ways I could inspire my kids to delve into different types of literature without making it into “another assignment.” So, I took the “assignment” out of “reading assignment.” Now, this doesn’t mean that I stopped asking them to read. What I stopped doing was asking comprehension questions, requiring written reports or even oral narration. Instead, I asked them to read the book for a set amount of time. I didn’t try to overdo it. Just a short amount of time each day for reading.  I didn’t quiz them on it. However, I still wanted to make sure they were comprehending what they were reading, so I would ask simple questions like “Do you like the new book?” or “Is this book interesting?” Whether my kids love or hate the book, I get the response I’m looking for, and often, I hear a good bit about why they love or hate the story.

When we start book clubs, that’s how our discussions begin. “Did you like the book?” To my amazement, I get lots of answers. Sometimes, they love it. Sometimes, they hate it. And, sometimes, they just don’t get it. But it starts the ball rolling, and we can talk about the book in more detail.

4. Interest-Led Learning

Book clubs can inspire your kids to read by adding rabbit trails of discovery.

Just like I don’t like to ask “reading comprehension” questions, I also don’t like to ask the same old questions about grammar, poetic license, and the author’s meaning at book club. We go on rabbit trails. We hop off the traditional roads of literature and meander down paths about pop-culture, history, biographies, poetry, music and more -whatever I find along the way that I think may be interesting. And we take deep dives into some of the subjects touched on in the book that aren’t the main storyline.

5. A Touch of Magic

Book clubs can inspire your kids to read by adding a bit of magic dust.

I also like to bring literature to life by sprinkling a bit of magic dust along the way. These are hands-on projects that take us into the book. We touch, see, feel, and learn like the characters in the book. Did the character eat soup? We might make soup. Did the character build a garden? We might build a terrarium. I try to bring the book into our home and book club and make it tangible.

When I started book clubs, I thought I might encourage my kids to dig deeper into the novels they read. But what I discovered is that these book clubs not only inspired my own children to a new love of reading, but they also inspired our friends. They broadened their minds with new adventures.

Book clubs are now a staple of our homeschool. I plan for weeks for each book club. There is no such thing as too much fun or anything too elaborate for a book club. I read the books along with the children and look for ways we can dig deeper. I listen to what they find exciting about their reading and find rabbit trails we can follow. I nurture their thoughts and ideas and help them see more than what is in their own world – to look outside of themselves and experience new worlds and new ideas.

Inspiring Your Young Readers

Over the years, I have been asked to help other moms who are busy with children, home, and schooling create their own book clubs. Often, these families don’t have the privilege of meeting with other families to experience book clubs, but they still want their children to dig deeper and be inspired by literature. And sometimes, they are so overwhelmed with teaching other subjects that they don’t have time to plan their own literature study. So, I created online book clubs.

These online book clubs encourage the student to dig deeper and think big thoughts. In every online book club, we go on rabbit trails of discovery.  We take deep dives and broaden our minds with new adventures. We also bring literature to life by sprinkling a bit of magic dust along the way. All of this is in an online format that makes it easy for the kids and the parents to follow. My desire has always been to inspire a new generation of readers, and I’m hoping these online book clubs will do just that.

For iHN readers, I am offering a special coupon. This coupon is good for 20% off any online book club. Just use the code iHNREADERS.

Literary Adventures for Kids

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Mission Trips for Teens: How to Prep for Impact https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/mission-trips-for-teens/ https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/mission-trips-for-teens/#respond Mon, 25 Mar 2024 05:11:00 +0000 https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/?p=36539 Explore valuable tips to help your mission trips be prepared for maximum impact including the benivits of missions trips for teens.

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Preparing for a life-changing mission trip impact for your teenager can be an exciting and meaningful experience for everyone involved. Whether your teen is getting ready to travel to a different country or serving in a community closer to home, there are practical steps you can take to ensure that they are fully prepared to make a positive impact.

Mission Trips for Teens

Are you ready? Let’s explore some valuable tips to help your missions trip for teens be prepared for maximum impact including the numerous benefits that short-term mission trips can offer high school students.

The Benefits of Short-Term Mission Trips for Teens that Homeschool

Short-term mission trips can provide high school students with a multitude of benefits. One of the most significant advantages is the opportunity to experience different cultures and gain a broader perspective on the world. By immersing themselves in a new environment, students can learn about traditions, customs, and ways of life that are different from their own. This exposure can help them develop empathy and compassion through hands-on service work as they interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds and gain a deeper understanding of global issues that impact the local community they are serving.

In addition to cultural immersion, short-term youth mission trips offer high school students the chance to build lasting friendships and connections with fellow teens and community members. The shared experience of completing service projects and serving others in a new environment can create strong bonds and foster a sense of camaraderie. These connections can extend beyond the trip itself, providing students with a network of support and friendship that lasts long after they return home.

Participating in short-term or summer mission trips can help high school students gain valuable life skills such as leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. Through their involvement in work projects and other activities of mission work, students have the opportunity to take on leadership roles, collaborate with others, and find creative solutions to challenges. This hands-on experience can help them develop skills that are essential for success in both their personal and professional lives.

Additionally, these trips can also provide opportunities for students to grow in faith and spiritual understanding of the meaning of the great commission as they engage in immersive experiences in new environments that challenge their comfort zone and deepen their beliefs while helping them form a mission-minded worldview.

Mission Trips for Teens: Practical Tips for Maximum Impact

As a homeschool parent of a teen preparing for a mission trip impact, it’s important to take practical steps to ensure they have a successful and meaningful experience. These tips will help you and your homeschooled high schooler prepare for maximum impact. Working with the youth leaders and youth ministry team accompanying your teen will provide high schoolers with the needed leadership for success. But you may also want to consider family mission trips that include your entire family, not just your high schoolers.

Tip #1: Your teen should get to know the community they will be serving by researching its customs and traditions. Understanding the cultural background of the community will help them better connect with the community and show respect for their way of life. The best way for homeschoolers to accomplish this is by taking a world geography course focused on the area of the local mission you are considering.

Tip #2: Pack versatile and comfortable clothing that will be appropriate for the climate and activities. This will ensure that you are prepared for any situation that may arise during the trip. If it’s the first time for overseas travel, they will want to use a good packing list, as well as ensure they are not overpacking. Check with the local leaders for a list of essentials young people will need and any specific items they should leave at home.

Tip #3: Practice basic phrases in the local language. It is a great way to communicate with those you are working with and ministering. It shows your teen’s willingness to engage with the locals on their terms. Service trips provide a unique opportunity to work with the local community. Make it a top priority for your teens to learn words and phrases that will allow for great ease of communication on the work site or in the local churches.

Tip #4: Physical readiness. Staying active and healthy in the weeks leading up to the trip will help ensure that you have the energy and stamina to fully participate in the activities and work of the mission trip. A new culture, food, and rhythm of work will take its toll on anyone. Community service is rewarding, and a church group that is fit and ready to work hard at yard work or construction projects will encourage everyone involved.

Tip #5: Bringing a journal to document experiences and reflect on the impact of the trip is a valuable way to process and remember the journey. It allows for the opportunity to capture memories and emotions and later reflect on the personal growth and impact of the trip. By the end of the trip you will want to have moments to share and take home and a journal is a valuable souvenir to take home from any short-term mission trip. 

Tip #6: Stay open-minded and flexible to fully embrace the experience of serving others. This mindset will allow for a more meaningful and fulfilling experience, as it enables your teen to be receptive to new ideas and ways of life. Whether you are working in inner cities in the United States, in homeless shelters, or on cross-cultural missions to Latin America, Europe, or the jungles of Africa. Cultural sensitivity will provide your teen with a positive mission experience. 

Preparing for maximum mission trip impact for your teen involves practical steps that can make a significant difference in the success and meaningfulness of the experience. From getting to know the community and its customs to packing versatile clothing and practicing basic language skills, these preparations can help teens fully engage with the community they’ll be serving. Physical readiness, journaling, and maintaining an open-minded and flexible mindset are also essential aspects of preparation that can enhance the impact of your missions trips for teens.

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Pros and Cons of Joining a Homeschool Co-op https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/pros-cons-homeschool-co-op/ https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/pros-cons-homeschool-co-op/#respond Tue, 19 Mar 2024 04:01:00 +0000 https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com//?p=27303 Are you considering joining a homeschool co-op? Consider some of these pros and cons to help you make the right decision for your family.

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We didn’t join our first homeschool co-op until our 13th year of homeschooling. I chose not to add more to our plate with having many littles since I was able to teach them on my own. Once we hit the high school years, though, I realized I needed some help–and that’s okay!

After the first year, I didn’t want to go back. I’m a homebody and an introvert, and I don’t like having to leave the house on a regular basis. It took a lot out of me mentally. However, after talking to my friend, mentor, and more seasoned homeschool mom, I decided it was a good idea to go back. So, we are in our second year of co-op

Though it leaves us all exhausted at the end of the day, I’m so glad we decided to go back. 

The Pros and Cons of Joining a Homeschool Co-op

Pros of a Homeschool Co-op

1. Accountability

I love the accountability our homeschool co-op brings for me and my children. My children, especially my high schoolers, appreciate that aspect as well. Sometimes it can be easy to slack on certain subjects because you aren’t good at them or things can slip through the cracks. 

2. A Wider Social Circle

Since my children are not in traditional school and they are too old for playdates, they needed more opportunities to make friends.

The idea that you can throw students all the same age into a classroom and expect them to get along and be friends is unrealistic. The same is true of a co-op.

Most of my kids connected with one or two people (out of a fairly large co-op). One or two good connections is worth it to venture outside our homeschool walls. 

3. Community Learning

My children would often talk about how they wanted to try going to public schools to see what it was like. They also sometimes lamented because they believed it was the only avenue for them to make more friends.

Joining the homeschool co-op allowed them to have a taste of that community learning setting. And it’s not as romantic as they envisioned it. They like it well enough but realize it’s not exactly what they thought. 

Also, being it’s mostly a Christian co-op, they were surprised to face some of the challenges they have faced. Which opened up some great dialogue for us. 

Cons of a Homeschool Co-op

1. Fairly Constrictive Setting

One of the reasons we love homeschooling so much is because it offers us flexibility. Sometimes, I get antsy when we’ve gotten through a lesson in class and just have to burn up time waiting for the next class. I struggle with finding it to be a waste of time because I’m very production-driven. The reality is there is nothing wrong with a little white space. 

But if we want to take a week off or have a sickness, we have to play catch-up which just adds further stress. On the flip side, this does teach my children how to deal with stressful situations. 

2. Mean Kids

My children assumed (and maybe I did a little) that being in a Christian co-op, they wouldn’t have to worry about bullies. Unfortunately, that has not been the case for two of my boys.

I am grateful they are wise enough not to engage and to stick up for themselves and for others being bullied. However, after 1.5 years of trying to ignore it, it has taken its toll on them. It’s also escalated to threats of physical violence, so we’ve had to take the matter to leadership as a result. 

It’s unfortunate that this has become a “normal” or common part of kid’s lives. Even so, that doesn’t mean we as parents should just let it go and let the kids deal with it. Our children are still just children, and they need an advocate to say this is not okay behavior and that it needs to be dealt with. I understand bullies often have hurt of their own or things going on inside their home, but something still needs to be done to send the message that behavior like that is not the way to handle your problems. 

Having said all that, it has taught my boys how to stick up for themselves and for others, and I am so proud of them for how they handled the situation. 

3. A Time Drain

Not only do my children spend a significant part of their day at co-op each week, but they also have homework as well. This isn’t a big deal as long as you make those classes a part of your regular homeschool load rather than adding it on as an extra. But because co-op does take most of the day, that’s all they are required for that day. I do not have them do other schoolwork once we get home. 

But since it is a co-op, I have added workload as well because I teach/co-teach at least 2 classes. This means I have more “homework” of my own as I prepare the lessons each week (or every other week as I share with another teacher). Some weeks it feels really overwhelming and I wonder why I chose to put such a burden on myself. 

Everything can’t always be “just so” or how we want. So even these cons can be turned into pros with the right attitude. It is teaching us how to manage areas we aren’t fully in control of. I can’t control how another parent chooses to teach my children, even if we both prefer a different way. But it teaches us all to adapt. 

Overall, I do recommend getting involved in a local homeschool co-op if you are able. It can be good for you and good for your kids.

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How to Create an Author Study for Young Homeschoolers https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/author-study/ https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/author-study/#respond Mon, 18 Mar 2024 04:01:00 +0000 https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com//?p=22413 Create an author study for your young kids! Expose them to great literature and engage them in the process early on in their education.

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My kids have all unwittingly chosen their favorite authors at one point in time. At a young age, they aren’t actually choosing an author but stating their preference for ‘that kind of book.’ Those preferences allow me to find more books that will interest them.

Author studies are a great way to explore more literature. Kids are more likely to read a book that is somehow familiar to them – whether by a related theme or style. I often entice my kids to try a new book by saying, “You enjoyed that book, and this one is by the same author.”

How to Create an Author Study for Young Children

We also tend to use author studies if we are in a bit of a homeschool rut. Taking a week off for an author study is a great way to loosen up, enjoy the learning process, and snuggle on the couch while reading.

Using Author Studies with Young Kids

Author studies are popular with older kids who can compare and contrast different styles and techniques. However, author studies are great for young kids as well.

  • They are an easy way to get kids to read more books.
  • You can compare similar characters in different books or one character in a series of books.
  • Gets kids excited about reading.
  • It gives them exposure to different types and styles of literature.

How to Create Your Own Author Study

Choose an Author

Start with an author you are familiar with or whose style you already enjoy. Take some time to learn details about this author, such as where they were born or any events that may have had an impact on their life. Young children may appreciate relating to their favorite authors.

Gather a Few of Their Books

We like to read a good selection of books from the author we are studying so try to get as many as you can. If they have more books than we can read, I try to pre-read the books and choose the ones that I think my kids will enjoy the most.

Plan Activities to Go with the Books

These activities should be based on whatever works best for your family. Perhaps a related field trip, movies, crafts, printables, recipes, or games. Pinterest is a great place to search for ideas to match certain books or authors.

Find Related Resources

Search for the author’s website or look on YouTube for more resources. You may be able to find interviews with the author or a video of them reading one of their books. You can check their speaking schedule and see if it will be possible to meet them.

Read and Enjoy

Make sure to keep the whole process simple and not stressful. It’s easy to get caught up in all the activities and crafts that are out there. But try to just enjoy the process.

Great Authors to Study

It’s easy to get stuck when trying to think of your favorite picture book author, so I’ve compiled a shortlist of great authors. Of course, there are many other great authors not mentioned here, so peruse your library for more options.

  • Tomie de Paola
  • Mo Willems
  • Jan Brett
  • Julia Donaldson
  • Eric Carle
  • Kevin Henkes
  • Robert Munsch
  • David Shannon
  • Doreen Cronin
  • Ezra Jack Keats
  • Laura Numeroff
  • Leo Lionni
  • Dr. Seuss

What are some of your child’s favorite authors? Share with us!

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Media Literacy: The How-Tos and Benefits of Starting a Podcast with Your Child https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/starting-a-podcast/ https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/starting-a-podcast/#respond Tue, 12 Mar 2024 05:11:00 +0000 https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/?p=36732 You can use starting a podcast with your homeschooling student to teach media literacy. Learn the basics and the benefits of starting.

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Podcasting is popular.  In a May 2023 article written by Courtney Kocak, founder and host of Podcast Bestie, 80% of Americans are familiar with podcasting.  

I bet that even your children have had a chance to listen to a podcast before.  

The Benefits of Starting a Podcast with Your Child

My kids first started listening to podcasts this school year, as we love Pam and Olivia Barnhill’s Wonder World Podcast. Another great one is Cindy West’s No Sweat Nature Study Podcast.  

We were really inspired though when we came across a poetry podcast put on by Grace Sloan (daughter of Amy Sloan of the Homeschool Conversations Podcast). In her Peter Piper Picked a Peck of Pickled Poems Podcast, Grace recites a great poem each week.  

After listening to one of Grace’s episodes, my daughter started asking me, “Can I do that, too?”

Well, if you’re like a lot of homeschool moms, you’d probably say “yes,” too.  

But how would I guide her through the process?

Can Anyone Start a Podcast?

After a few tries with my daughter, I discovered that podcasting is quite easy. In fact, it is a great method for teaching media literacy.

Yes, anyone can create a podcast if one has access to a smartphone or desktop computer, has a voice, and can follow intuitive podcast creator apps like Spotify for Podcasters

Podcasts can be for entertainment, education, or background noise. Anyone can put on a podcast.  

I wanted my daughter to be able to give some value to homeschooling moms and their students. This is why I decided, with my daughter, to create a poetry podcast that was based on the poems she enjoyed and wanted to recite. For both listeners and my daughter, I wanted the goal to be education.

In addition to reciting poetry, my daughter also recorded a couple of episodes that focused on defining a certain poetry term like meter, for example.  

Podcasting takes as much time as you want to allow. For my daughter, it took about 15-20 minutes per episode.  

With my help, she selected a seasonal poem each week, practiced a few times to get the words correct and the intonation smooth, then recorded.

We edited, and I wrote a description of the episode, which we either immediately published or scheduled for a future date.  

How-To Podcasting Basics

While you do not have to be the most media-literate person to begin a podcast, it does require understanding a few basics.

Before Recording

Make sure you have a podcast player already on your phone, like Spotify, YouTube Music, or iHeart Radio.  (I use Google Podcasts, but I will no longer be able to listen to podcasts there after April 2, 2024; I’m switching to YouTube Music.)

Listen to a few podcast episodes in the same genre that you’d like to create.  What do you like?  What do you dislike? Make a note of some of these things.

Next, find a podcast recording platform. We downloaded the Spotify for Podcasters application on my phone, and I opened an account, which can be accessed on my laptop computer, as well. 

Before you begin recording, teach your child about speaking with diction and fluency. You want him or her to be audible.  

Make sure you have a quiet room with good acoustics (ideally with carpet, which absorbs echoes).  

Open your podcast recording app. This can be done on your smartphone or on your desktop or laptop with headphones and a mic or just using the computer’s built-in microphone.

In Spotify for Podcasters, all you have to do is click on the + icon (Tools) to begin recording a new episode. Tap on the + sign again to get started with recording your episode.  

Media literacy is something that cannot be fully given to the child to learn on his own. An adult should be supervising the process.  

Give the child a tutorial on the icons at the bottom of the screen. On mobile view, there are three options at the bottom of Spotify’s page: Music, Record, and Library.

Search the Music library to decide if you want to include a song by a recording artist in your episode. The Record button is for recording your own new content. The Library button is where your previously recorded content is stored and can be retrieved for future episodes.  

If you drag your finger across these icons at the bottom of the page and swipe to the left, you’ll find two more options: Interludes and Sounds. The Interludes are for breaking up your episode into different segments. The Sounds add effect to your message.  

While Recording 

Smile as you speak. This has a great effect on the tone of your message.  

Ask your child to speak as if they are speaking to a friend or trusted teacher. It’s a great opportunity to teach public speaking.  

Lastly, if you hit Record and realize that you messed up, don’t worry! You can always delete anything before it gets published.  

Do not treat this as a performance. Rather, value the process and use it as a teaching opportunity. Of course, the performance skills are easily acquired with practice. However, the parent does not need to get anxious or take this too seriously. It should be a relaxing, fun time!

After Recording 

Once you record something, you can see the segments and rearrange them to fit your preferred order. This is done by placing a finger on the segment, holding it there for a moment, and dragging that segment to its preferred place.  

Save your work as you make changes. Lastly, hit publish and write a description of the episode. 

Make sure your title fits the episode and is not confusing.  

Benefits of Starting a Podcast With Your Child

There are many benefits, some measurable and some immeasurable, to starting a podcast with your own child in your homeschool.

First of all, podcasting counts as a subject in school. This should seem obvious since a student is learning a new skill that is transferable to the real world. 

Did I mention that the podcasting process involves:

  • Research
  • Reading
  • Recitation
  • Elocution (orating)
  • Communicating information
  • Practicing introductions
  • Audio editing
  • Writing

Of course, podcasting is not something that is intuitive, but it’s pretty close. The adult teacher can figure it out quickly and can relay that to the child. 

You might even consider using podcasting in your broader course of study. For example, if you have older students, it might be a good idea to create a podcast on a more challenging content area, such as chemistry or statistics, as a supplementary assignment.  Educators claim that one of the best ways to learn a subject is to teach it.  

Another great benefit to podcasting is the amount of skill acquisition a student experiences in a short time, as it relates to technology. My daughter is now capable of performing all podcasting tasks independently from start to finish, aside from typing a thorough description. She was able to acquire the technology skills pretty quickly, and the podcasting platform is conducive to quick learning.

One of the immeasurable benefits of podcasting is the bonding that takes place between me, my daughter, and the poems she recites. She has established a love for poetry and teaching others.

My daughter and I have bonded in trying a new endeavor alongside each other. She also gets a glimpse into my own creative projects, which have included audio and video podcasts.

Maybe the elephant in the room is the fact that starting a podcast with an eager student is fun! I hope she will always remember the good times we have had on this project. 

Here is a list of all the poems (and non-poems) my daughter recited over the fall semester of Poems for Kids Podcast:

Starting a podcast with your homeschooling student is feasible and has its benefits if you follow a few basic steps and have a goal of education and value process over product. The podcast recordings are a keepsake to hold onto for years to come!

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5 Reasons to Switch From a Paper Planner to Online Homeschool Planning https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/online-homeschool-planner/ https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/online-homeschool-planner/#respond Mon, 11 Mar 2024 04:01:00 +0000 https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/?p=36889 If you've always been a paper planner but it's just not working anymore, here are 5 reasons to switch to an online homeschool planner.

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The reality of homeschooling is that it’s not all that different from real, everyday life. Life happens, plans go awry, and believe it or not, kids sometimes don’t willingly do all the things we ask of them. GASP! I know, who knew?

This is a sponsored post. I was given the product to review and I may be compensated for my honest review of the product.

And so, my introduction to Homeschool Planet – a cloud-based online homeschool planner – actually came at a very important time in our homeschooling journey.  

My 12-year-old had adamantly outgrown my Waldorf-style, hands-on approach and was leaning toward a more independent learning style, which, when you think about it, isn’t that what we all want for our learners? After trying out Homeschool Planet for several weeks, I know that it is going to be our forever-planner solution to homeschool organization.

Making the Switch: Paper to an Online Homeschool Planner 

For years, I was attached to the idea of homeschool paper planners; I’d buy the pretty designer versions, countless pens, stickers, washi tape, and everything in between in the hopes that “this year is going to be different.” 

I’d envisioned spending my Sunday evenings planning and decorating, using up all of my supplies, and creating a beautiful plan book and homeschool portfolio. In my reverie, my learner would happily go along with everything I had so meticulously planned each week, and we’d live in homeschool and planner peace forever and always. 

But, as mentioned, life had other plans. My young Waldorf kiddo was becoming a preteen and had his ideas of what (and how) he wanted to learn. So, my role over the last year became one of facilitating a learning environment in which he could express his individuality and explore his interests.

He doesn’t need (nor want, much to my chagrin) my input as much as he used to, so digital planning it is! I set up the weekly assignments, often with his input, plug in his online classes (because outsourcing some subjects is key) and we’re good to go! Here are 5 reasons we made the permanent switch to digital homeschool planning:

1. Provides For an Easily Customizable Homeschool Schedule

Homeschool Planet offers a comprehensive getting started guide, with both written and video tutorials to help you get started, so you can be off and running the minute you sign up! The first thing you’ll do when setting up your Homeschool Planet planner is set up your homeschool schedule. 

Since we homeschool year-round, being able to plug in the dates we want to “do school” in advance was very helpful. It made me feel as though I had a better handle on how our upcoming year was going to go.
I was also able to mark off days that we would be taking breaks, or vacations as well. Once that’s complete, you can even customize the details within the planner by changing themes, color, and design; Homeschool Planet is fully customizable to your preferences – so again, if you like that whole “decorating your paper planner” thing, this will fill that gap! 

2. An Online Homeschool Planner Saves Time 

Using Homeschool Planet can help you save tons of time in a variety of ways. Scheduling is automated, and you can set reminders and track your learner’s progress. You don’t have to enter everything painstakingly by hand; just type once, click, and repeat on the days needed. Plus, Homeschool Planet includes lesson plan plugins for a variety of homeschool curricula. Simply purchase the plugin and it will automatically schedule the assignments into your student’s calendar!

For example, I was able to incorporate Evan-Moor Daily 6 Trait Writing lessons right into my son’s daily schedule; and if I need to move something around, it’s just a simple click to make a change. There are several Homeschool Planet Integrated Lesson Plan options available to streamline your homeschool planning. 

The other time-saving feature is that with a blank canvas of a paper planner, for me, there was a lot of pressure to fill all of it out and make it look pretty. In reality, none of this matters, it was just a way to pass the time; and now, as a single, work-from-home mom, time is a hot commodity. If you love decorating your planner, I don’t blame you, right now, in this stage of my life though, it’s just not the priority it once was.

3. Excellent Option for On-the-go Homeschooling Families 

Our family loves to travel; especially when it’s homeschool-related and we’re roadschooling or visiting special places from our lessons. And, of course, traveling with a larger family (as we were when I was homeschooling four learners) means more luggage, packing food and supplies and all the things; the last thing you need is to try to juggle a big, thick homeschool paper planner and all that comes with it, on vacation. 

And when you are out and about, don’t forget to take advantage of all of the goodies your status as a homeschooling family allows! Homeschool Planet also provides a FREE Homeschool Identification Card which you can present at various locations for discounts and special offers!

Homeschool Planet digital homeschool planners offer unparalleled accessibility, allowing you to manage your homeschooling on the go. You can easily access your planner from any internet-enabled device, ensuring continuity in your child’s education regardless of location.

homeschool planet 30-day free trial

Don’t take my word for it though; you can try Homeschool Planet yourself today, free for 30 days, to see if it might be the right fit for you and your busy family!

4. Accessible Grades and Homeschool Transcripts 

Having graduated three students; now through college and successful young adults, I understand how the idea of homeschooling the high school years can be daunting. One of the most-asked questions on the homeschool forums, after questions about socialization and the prom, is “What about transcripts?”

When I set out to pull together my learner’s transcripts about 8 years ago, it was a painstaking process of going through portfolios, lesson plans, paper planners, and Google Calendar to compile everything to ensure it aligned with what I wanted to represent on the transcript. I then had to submit the information to our homeschool accountability association so they could create an official transcript.

Thankfully, Homeschool Planet makes creating transcripts a breeze! You’re already entering the information into the cloud-based planner, Homeschool Planet organizes it for you into a comprehensive transcript with a few clicks! And, whether you’re a visual learner or prefer to read instructions, you’re covered. They offer step-by-step instructions so you can take “figure out how to create a transcript” off your homeschool to-do list! 

5. Digital Planning Works For Our Needs

Homeschooling has truly been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life; I’ve enjoyed watching as my children explore, learn, and become the best version of themselves. What it boils down to is celebrating their individuality, providing assistance where necessary, and leaving them room to explore the world and their place in it. 

For me, it was also important to let go of the preconceived notions I had about what my homeschool would look like through the years. Just because I wanted to continue a certain path for my child, doesn’t mean it was the best fit for him; by ditching the paper planner and all of the stickers and washi tape, and honing in on his needs and preferences, a digital planner was the best choice all-around. 

I can plan to my heart’s content, adjust as necessary, and simply print off my learners’ assignments weekly. This way, he can take ownership of his work, my creative side feels better with something tangible in my hands and most importantly, the assignments are completed and everything is in order.

Homeschool Planet has been a win-win in our homeschool; give it a try FREE for 30 DAYS!

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Homeschooling Twins: What to Do When They’re Learning at Different Speeds https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/homeschooling-twins-2/ https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/homeschooling-twins-2/#respond Tue, 05 Mar 2024 05:00:00 +0000 https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com//?p=25249 Whether we like it or not, in homeschool and life, twins are barraged with comparisons, which can be harmful to the twins’ identities and development.

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I’m a twin. I’m raising and homeschooling twins – girls. My dad’s a twin. I’ve nannied and babysat for twins, have friends who are twins, and have taught twins in a public school setting. 

Homeschooling Twins: What to Do When They're Learning at Different Speeds

You could say I have some experience with twins, and from all that experience, one thing is clear:

Like it or not, twins will always be compared to each other.

  • Size.
  • Interests.
  • Developmental milestones.
  • Personality traits.
  • Accomplishments.
  • Test scores.
  • Grades.
  • Likeability.
  • Organizational habits.
  • Strengths and weaknesses.

Whether we like it or not, whether we actively encourage or discourage it, twins are barraged with comparisons. We even do it to ourselves.

That comparison can seem harmless, but over time, they can be harmful to the twins’ identities and development, and not just for the one who is deemed “less.”  As homeschooling parents, there are ways we can minimize the damage of comparisons and strengthen the overall family bonds at the same time.

Tips for Homeschooling Twins

1 –  Avoid the Red Pen

Especially in the early years, there is no need for grading. Instead, collaboration and revision should be encouraged. When you work together, you can catch errors or confusion in real-time and can gently teach or correct without the stigma of having gotten more “wrong” than the sibling.

2 – Work Cooperatively

In most of the world, especially non-western countries, collaboration in learning is expected and encouraged. Because we can be flexible in our coursework and have no need for daily grades, let them work together. The stronger twin can coach the weaker, and the same may happen in reverse in another area. There’s nothing wrong with this. In fact, it’s great practice for adulthood as team work dynamics.

3 – Work Separately in Weak Areas

If you notice that one twin is struggling in a specific area and feeling discouraged, or if one twin is gloating or boasting in an unhealthy way, separate them. Make that your special one-on-one time, or…

4 – Use Older and Younger Siblings or Friends as Collaborators

If there are other siblings or friends in the mix, enlist them to help out. This is one of the most underutilized resources in homeschooling. Find someone, whether a gentle older sibling or an adoring young fan, to spend time with one twin while you work with the other. Reading or writing for younger siblings or helping them practice skills can be a great, non-threatening reinforcement.  Older siblings or friends often enjoy (in moderation) the opportunity to coach and can be a great resource and encouragement.

5 – Encourage Different Interests

Twins don’t have to be the same, have the same interests, or friends, or activities. If you notice them struggling or comparing more than is healthy, find separate activities, especially once the tween and teen years hit. As they’re working to form their identities, they will value time and space to be an individual.

6 – Avoid Comparative Language

It’s not about who was first, or better, or more precise. Twins are individuals whose accomplishments and struggles stand on their own, regardless of what a sibling has or has not done. I can have a hard day, and it is valid, even if my twin’s day may have been harder. I can have an experiment I can be proud of, even if my sister’s was flashier or more in-depth. My work and emotions exist in a separate space from hers and do not need to be compared in order to validate them.

7 – Emphasize Strengths

My twins are awesome. They both have unique and amazing strengths. One has eagle eyes and can see anything out of place, can see a bug a mile away, and can point out whatever has changed. The other is amazingly in tune with others’ emotions and what people need. At 4, she was already reminding me to unplug outlets before we left for trips and making sure we had all we needed. Celebrate who they are as individuals.

8 – Model a Growth Mindset

It’s not about who’s fastest. It’s about eventually getting there. We talk about that all the time with our kids. One of my twins didn’t walk until 21 months, but she’s now just as coordinated as the other two. We talk about ourselves as well, what we remember as being hard, and what things took longer for us. It’s hard with skills-based tasks. My twin sister and I both took violin lessons, and we didn’t always progress at the same rate. Now my kids are learning to swim and have different comfort and proficiency levels. That’s ok. We’re not comparing. We give them the time they need – no rush – trusting that they will eventually get there.

9 – Work with Personal Bests If You Use Numbers

Numbers are tricky – test scores, race times, grades, number of goals scored. They make it very easy to want to compare. Instead, talk to each about their own numbers as if the twins didn’t exist. You ran a 10 minute mile. Good for you. You got a 92 on a test. Good for you. That was better than the last one. Their successes and failures are completely valid and independent of each other. I always got a slightly lower test score than my twin sister. Always. After I’d helped her study and explained the material. That doesn’t mean I wasn’t successful or good enough, though, just because she was “better.” Our parents did a good job not using the other as a standard. They may have used the whole class average or a personal goal, but never the twin.

10 – Find Twin Role Models and Talk About Their Experiences

Do you have people to talk to, to watch how they deal with being half of a pair?

Growing up, we had the Bobbsey Twin books, the TV show Sister, Sister, and, of course, we had my dad as the in-home twin expert.

It’s important to have people who understand the unique set of challenges twins face. There are local twin organizations, Facebook groups, and other ways to connect with people who understand where you’re coming from.

Twin Homeschooling

Being a twin is great. You have a built-in sounding board, friend, and confidante. It’s a unique gift, and with that unique gift also come unique challenges. On the whole, treat your kids like the amazing, unique individuals they are, regardless of birth order or singleton or multiple status. They all need to be seen, loved, and appreciated for who they are. They need to be given space to find their own identities and know that they are valued as individuals. Creative, amazing, inspiring individuals.

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10 Fun Ways to Teach Middle School History When Homeschooling https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/middle-school-history-ideas/ https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/middle-school-history-ideas/#respond Mon, 04 Mar 2024 05:01:00 +0000 https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/?p=36814 Teaching middle school history when homeschooling can be a great way to explore new ideas and resources! Here are 10 ways to make it fun!

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Homeschooling provides a unique opportunity to tailor education to your child’s needs and interests. So, when it comes to teaching middle school history, incorporating fun activities is a must to make learning engaging and memorable.

10 Fun Ways to Teach Middle School History When Homeschooling

Here are 10 of my favorite fun ways to teach history when homeschooling middle school!

Middle School History

Historical Role-Playing

Have your child act out historical figures or events. This hands-on approach can help them understand the perspectives of different people throughout history. Studying the American Revolution? Have kids take sides and have a debate between American and British soldiers.

Tip: I would be really cautious about marginalizing or minimizing the experience of those who suffered throughout history. For populations who experienced deep trauma, re-enacting or acting out events of their suffering is never appropriate. In those cases, it’s better to approach the lesson in a different manner.

Virtual Field Trips

Explore historical sites and museums virtually. Many museums offer online tours, allowing students to immerse themselves in different time periods. Virtual field trips are one of our favorite extension activities!

Historical Cooking

Cook dishes from different time periods to experience history through taste and smell. This can also spark discussions about food traditions and customs.

Create a Timeline

Visual aids like timelines can help students grasp the chronological order of historical events. Encourage your child to create a timeline of a specific era or civilization.

Historical Fiction Books

Incorporate historical fiction novels into your curriculum. This can bring history to life and make it more relatable for middle schoolers.

Documentary Watching

Watch historical documentaries together as a family. Documentaries provide visual context and can spark interesting discussions about different historical topics.

Historical Scavenger Hunt

Create a scavenger hunt with clues related to historical events or figures. This is especially fun to do if you’re visiting a historical site!

Field Trips to Historical Sites

Visit local historical sites or landmarks to provide a hands-on learning experience. Seeing history in person can leave a lasting impression on students.

Historical Games

Play educational games that focus on history. There are many board games, online quizzes, and apps that can make learning history fun and interactive.

Historical Document Analysis

Study primary sources such as letters, diaries, and documents from different time periods. Analyzing these sources can help students develop critical thinking skills and gain a deeper understanding of history.

Make Middle School History Fun

Incorporating these fun and interactive activities into your history curriculum can make learning enjoyable for middle schoolers and help them develop a deeper appreciation for the past. Homeschooling provides the flexibility to explore history in creative ways, so take advantage of it! Make middle school history both educational and entertaining, and your kids will never forget it!

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The Anxious Homeschool Parent https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/anxious-homeschool-parent/ https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/anxious-homeschool-parent/#respond Tue, 27 Feb 2024 05:00:00 +0000 https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com//?p=25273 When worry seems to be your greatest skill, why choose to homeschool? Leaning on the flexibility of homeschooling helps handle anxiety.

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A lot of things threaten our homeschool peace. A lot more than I’d like to admit originate with me. I’m creative, fairly intelligent, I love my kids, and I really enjoy homeschooling. But I’m also controlling, perfectionistic, and, hardest of all, I’m anxious. Hence, there’s homeschool anxiety.

The Anxious Homeschool Parent

I’ve had an anxiety disorder my entire life. I can remember worrying about the various ways someone could break into my home as a first grader and the panic attacks as a sixth-grader. Insecurities were magnified, sleep was a struggle, and my racing thoughts never seemed to slow.

Things haven’t changed a whole lot since then, except now I have the added weight and worry of being responsible for my child’s education.

Solely responsible. Solely, anxiously responsible.

Homeschool Anxiety

You might ask yourself why, if worry is my greatest skill and control is the elusive unicorn I’m forever chasing, I might choose to homeschool with anxiety. Don’t I have enough on my shoulders? Isn’t leaving the house hard enough some days? Don’t I fret over whether I’m teaching a math concept correctly or whether his handwriting is developmentally appropriate or if he remembers that grammar rule we haven’t touched on in a year or if he’ll ever find friends without attending a co-op or if he’ll need to someday demonstrate a masters-level ability with the watercolors we never use?

Don’t I worry that I’m messing it all up and condemning my beloved babe to a lifetime of mockery, catching-up, and overcoming the damage I’ve likely caused? Yeah. Daily.

I worry almost constantly. But if you, dear reader, also have intimate experience with anxiety, then you know it’s not just worry. It’s a racing heart and rushing wind in your ears when you’re watching your kiddo attempt an art project, a science experiment, or scrambled eggs. 

It’s irritability and anger when a homeschool day at the zoo is busy, full, unstructured, and chaotic.

It’s shortness of breath when you keep trying and trying and trying to get your child to listen when he’s just not grasping the math problem when you’re not grasping the math problem, when you feel out of options and patience and don’t know how you’ll get past this point in the lesson plan.

Sometimes, it’s the lesson plan itself, the pristine, unreached pages in the back that you still haven’t gotten to.

Sometimes, it’s the fatigue, headaches, and nausea that you can’t shake or explain. Anxiety manifests in many ways beyond worry, and they can all derail your homeschool day, robbing you of the peace that should come from this beautiful thing we call home education. Fortunately, we’re not powerless against it.

Flexibility & Anxiety in Homeschooling

One of the most appealing aspects of homeschooling is the flexibility. Our kids don’t have to sit in rows, learn within four walls, or ever even touch a worksheet if we so choose.

Our kids can attend co-ops or learn one-on-one, sit at a desk or lie on the grass, read a book, or watch a documentary. We can school in the mornings, in the evenings, or on the weekends. We can take breaks, double up, plow through, or slow down. We can do what we want. We can do what our kids need.

The good news for the anxious homeschool parent is that we can also do what we need.

We don’t have to school how everyone else does. I know, I know, you’ve heard that before. But instead of saying it in the context of forest schooling vs. Classical Conversations, consider it with regard to your anxiety. If the blanks on a worksheet or the unchecked boxes in an implementation manual give you anxiety, toss ’em. If the thought of operating without a net causes you stress, then choose a curriculum that includes a handbook with instructions. If racing thoughts keep you up late, then start school in the afternoon. If glitter gives you jitters, then ban that crafty pest.

Abandon Schedules if They Cause Anxiety

As much as homeschooling is about doing what’s best for your child, it has to also be about what’s best for you. Schedules make me stressed, tense. I feel the constant weight of expectation and failure when I tell myself that we have to begin – or end – at a specific time. Rather than focusing on the learning or the conversations, I’m focused on the constant countdown and very aware of how much time is being “wasted” by stopping to Google the reproductive habits of pink velvet worms (they’re hilarious, trust me). It builds pressure and breeds anxiety, so I tossed the schedule. Really.

We have a list of subjects to get through, and we do them. In whatever order we choose that day, for however long we want until we’re satisfied.

Rely on a Scheduled Curriculum If it Relieves Anxiety

This freedom from schedules may give you more anxiety. That just means it’s not for you. You may need a very detailed schedule with boxes you can check to reassure you that you’ve really done enough that day. But for me, in my homeschool, it is freeing.

Curriculum – or lack thereof – will not cure anxiety, though. You can find ways to alleviate or eliminate triggers, but anxiety is a chemical reaction, something your brain will produce regardless of state standards and alarm clocks, and just so much glitter. You, the anxious homeschool parent, will need to find ways to treat your anxiety, to bring your tired mind some peace.

Maybe it’s finally time to call that therapist your friend recommended. Maybe it’s time to start taking the kids to enrichment classes so you can be alone for a bit and take a bit of the load off your shoulders. Maybe it’s time to talk to your doctor about medication.

None of these options signal failure or weakness or an inability to parent or teach.

All of these options signal that you value your mental health and yourself.

Homeschooling requires sacrifice on your part – a sacrifice of time, of resources, of a clean house, or maybe a formal dining room. Homeschooling has never required that we sacrifice ourselves. There is no honor, award, or pride in giving so much of yourself to the homeschooling journey that you don’t make it out the other side. 

If you are anxious, dear parent, it will not go away if you just tell yourself to calm down. It will not go away if the kids get all of their work done by noon. It will not go away if you send them to public school. Anxiety is a beast that must be battled. It’s not intimidated by neat handwriting or tidy houses, so stop hoping you can feel better if only you could just get it together. Find yourself some help, and get yourself cared for.

You can homeschool with anxiety. You can function and parent well. You can also really suck the joy out of homeschooling – and life – if you live in constant fear and agitation. So take some time, take some breaths, and take the next steps you need towards releasing that tight band around your chest. Your kids will be better off, but most importantly, so will you.

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What To Look For in a High School Astronomy Curriculum https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/high-school-astronomy-curriculum/ https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/high-school-astronomy-curriculum/#respond Mon, 26 Feb 2024 05:01:00 +0000 https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/?p=36605 A high school astronomy curriculum can offer students the opportunity to embrace the wonders of the universe, develop critical thinking skills, and even pursue future careers in scientific fields. By fostering an understanding of astronomy that is both enriching and compatible with personal beliefs, educators and parents can encourage a new generation of young minds […]

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A high school astronomy curriculum can offer students the opportunity to embrace the wonders of the universe, develop critical thinking skills, and even pursue future careers in scientific fields. By fostering an understanding of astronomy that is both enriching and compatible with personal beliefs, educators and parents can encourage a new generation of young minds to reach for the stars. Let’s take a look at what makes a good astronomy curriculum for high school

What to Look for in a High School Astronomy Curriculum

Astronomy is a subject that is filled with wonder. As a science, it allows a child to be immersed in the wonder of creation. Practically, it brings together physics, history, mathematics, earth sciences, and philosophy. Astronomy is a science that leads naturally to the questions of origins and our place in the Universe. Many Christian parents can shy away from Astronomy as a subject, fearful that the ideas are anti-God, or that it is too akin to astrology.

Astronomy or Astrology

Astronomy is a science concerned with the study of space; it is practiced within the confines of scientific thinking and the laws of nature. Astrology is an ancient belief in the power of the stars to determine our actions on earth. Therefore, it is a form of divination. Astrology is not something Christians dabble in. It is true early stargazers also practiced astrology in the same way early chemists were alchemists. This has resulted in terms that are used in astrology to be in astronomy, for example, the names of the constellations that form the zodiac. But a child studying the science of astronomy is not practicing astrology or divination.

Understanding The Science of Astronomy

Astronomers use telescopes to understand the workings of the heavens. The work of great thinkers like Copernicus, Kepler, Galileo, and Isaac Newton unlocked the precision of the Solar System. The mathematical equations of Kepler and Newton explain the motion of the Solar System. We see through their work such beauty and design, which makes us think of a Creator. Today, the powerful instruments available are unlocking the mysteries of neutron stars, black holes, dark matter, and beauty beyond the wildest imaginations of Galileo when he first looked at the heavens in his telescope.

Astronomy Basics

Finding an astronomy curriculum to unlock these wonders of the sky can set your child on a lifelong love of space. Is your child already hooked on space? Then, you’ll want to find a curriculum to build on their knowledge and take them further. Find a curriculum that first helps them navigate the night sky. Being able to pick out key features in the night sky and understand how the sky changes through the seasons is key to going further with Astronomy. Incorporating hands-on astronomy projects into your high school astronomy curriculum will provide your teens with a practical application (lab work!) needed for high school science courses.

Even in a more urban environment, brighter naked-eye objects like the moon and bright stars like Rigel are visible. Many of the planets, like Jupiter, Mars, and Venus, can be found easily if you know when and where to look. A good basic astronomy curriculum will help you navigate this. If you live near an observatory it is worth finding out if they do beginner stargazing sessions. Then, a starry night will forever be a thing of wonder.

High School Astronomy Curriculum

For teens building on this foundation, the next step is a deeper understanding of the science underpinning the cosmos. High schoolers should look at how stars are powered by nuclear fusion and the science of our sun. Studying the sun gives insight into all stars. With a good astronomy curriculum, teens will understand why studying the light from individual stars reveals the chemical composition of the star that emitted it. They can use a mathematical explanation to understand the orbits of planets and the expansion of the universe through the study of the redshift of galaxies. The actual math skills a high school student is already learning will be applied to the understanding of space. 

Students may want to find an Introduction to Astronomy course, or for those who are passionate, there is an honors-level, 2-year Astronomy course. This course is based on the GCSE astronomy course requirements for UK students. Astronomy and Astrophysics are both potential degrees at a university. For a student looking to make a career out of space, they will need to be strong in mathematics and physics, and Astronomy is a course that may even be required for some science degree programs.

Astronomy Websites for All Ages

There are many great websites for kids who love space. Here a few favorites.

  1. National Schools Observatory: this is a fantastic educational website that has great resources for kids to explore space and space science.
  2. Stellarium: This website allows you to see live what the night sky is like in your location. It is a fantastic stargazing tool. You can use it on your desktop, or there is an app to download onto your phone. This astronomy software is brilliant; my son described it as “so cool!”
  3. NASA: NASA has a wealth of knowledge available, including as resources for kids of all grade levels. They also have websites for their telescopes. You can see the images from the Hubble Space Telescope or the new James Webb Telescope.
  4. James Webb Telescope: NASA’s latest telescope is re-writing our understanding of space. The images produced reveal in great detail the wonders of the Solar System, the Milky Way Galaxy, as well as deep space objects. 

Fun Star Gazing Activities Teens Love

  • Create a stargazing journal. This is like a nature journal. But it will document what you observe. Make notes of the everyday stars you discover, as well as special astronomical events like a lunar eclipse or a comet.
  • For a month, watch the changing phases of the moon. Sketch the lunar phases.
  • Try to learn a constellation a month. Research the mythology behind the constellation. This helps the child remember it if they have a story to tell.
  • If there is a meteor shower, wrap up warm, make hot chocolate, and take blankets outside. Then, lie back and enjoy the beauty.

Astronomy Curriculum: High School

There are a variety of ideas to consider when looking for a faith-based astronomy curriculum for your high school child. To begin studying space, consider Introduction to Astronomy or the honors-level Astronomy course. Stargazing as a child can develop a lifelong passion for astronomy in your homeschooler’s life. They will never tire of looking up to the heavens and gazing at the glorious sight of a dark sky filled with stars. It may also develop their curiosity to understand more about Creation.

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