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// - I have homeschooled for sixteen years. Our oldest recently graduated from college, another is a sophomore in college & our youngest is in 7th grade. I would like to offer encouragement to those who are just beginning to homeschool, as well as those whose children are considering college. It takes commitment to remain in homeschooling for the long haul. I would also like others to know that their homeschooled children can succeed in college and in their personal and professional lives.


Bear with me!


I look forward to commenting on the sites of those who have responded to my post; however, at present our security system is blocking me from doing so.  I hope to have this problem corrected soon.  Until that time, I will respond on my site.  Thank you to those who have welcomed me to the homeschool blogging world!  I am humbled at the thought of actually having any wisdom to impart to other homeschoolers.  I realize that my entire life is covered by the grace of God and it is because of Him that I have been able to do anything at all!  I am happy to report that His grace is big enough to cover mistakes I have made in parenting, 27 years of marriage and 16 years of homeschooling.  I would also like to emphasize that even though I have homeschooled a very long time, I am still learning!  The Lord has given your children to you & He will direct your efforts to meet their educational and social needs.  I often hear how "one-size fits all" doesn't work well in homeschooling.  It doesn't work within one's own family either as each of our children is a unique creation in Christ.  We should consider be willing to personalize our schooling to reflect EACH child's needs & interests when possible.  I have used it all--textbooks, unit studies, Charlotte Mason, my own hodgepodge, video....... There were times when I combined coursework due to time limitations, but I usually tried to allow for individual learning styles and aptitude within those areas that I combined.    Most importantly, I desired to create a love of learning within my children's hearts so they will desire to be life long learners. 

  What is one of the most important ingredients in your view to successful homeschooling?  I would respond with "consistency." There are , of course, many others that come to my mind. What is your response?  When mothers mention that they just cannot get their school work done, I ask them if they are staying home.  Ouch! Although we didn't do everything right by any means, we have been consistent.  We do school day in & day out.  I feel this is important training in diligence for our children.  There are times when we were ill or when we had a rare snowstorm--which always cancels school, by the way.  I didn't want to be known by my children as the mom who didn't let them play in the snow!  There are legitimate reasons for flexibility, but I think it is important to demonstrate consistency in homeschooling.  What are your thoughts? 





» End = Bear with me!


Comments from our visitors...


consistency
Posted at 2:36 PM on Jul. 10, 2007 by short
We too do school year round, I don't get to keep my children close otherwise. The daily accountability is important for both myself and them, whether it is academic work or anything else, we are always learning..... We don't get snow so does that count? Two posts out of two have been great, keep it up!

Edited by short on Jul. 10, 2007 at 2:40 PM



Amen!
Posted at 4:47 PM on Jul. 23, 2007 by melissal89
Consistency in everything! That is a hard learned rule in our house. We are still at work with it. Some flexibility will be necessary especially after two moves, an adoption, and illness. However, we are learning the value of some consistency even through hard times. My kids all thrive on predictability, so do I!