Education should foster a love of learning and a confident critical thinker rather than a machine that rattles off facts. Simply knowing the facts is not true learning. Learning gives the ability to apply knowledge not just memorize facts. As homeschoolers, we have the luxury of time which provides the ability to study from a mastery approach. However, it is most important to remember that homeschooling is about raising the total child and not just academics. If all you accomplish in a day is teaching good character, instilling a love for Christ, and showing your children they are loved and valued, you have succeeded.
It is easy to get caught up in speed drills, workbooks, and flash cards. You have a schedule that you intend to keep. However, we must be careful not to view the schedule as a litmus test of learning. I believe in providing challenging academic study and encouraging excellence in children. Academics must be combined with nurturing that builds the whole child with the purpose of raising a productive and compassionate adult. It sounds like an overwhelming task yet the answer lies in simplicity.
Simple moments spent with your children will nurture them and show them how much they are cherished. The confidence built allows children to learn freely and without stress. It also teaches love, compassion, and understanding. People are known by their character and held dear or at army’s length because of it. The time you spend with your children is important to their development. Just sitting quietly sharing a book or telling stories is precious. Take an afternoon off and play board games, go on a walk, watch a movie, look through old photos, or bake something together. The most important element is laughing. Building these memories will be cherished by you and your children for a lifetime.