The "Grammar" of Homeschooling

In classical education circles, we talk a lot about "grammar" - not ABCs, noun-verb-adjective kind of grammar, but the grammar of any given subject. So what is the grammar - the basics - of getting started homeschooling?

First, know the laws of your state. Oklahoma is the only state where homeschooling is protected in the state's constitution. You do not have to report to anyone, anywhere, at any time that you are choosing to homeschool your children. In Oklahoma, it is your right. Having homeschooled in several states, Oklahoma is by far the most homeschool-friendly state that I know of.

Second, know your resources. I talked a little about local community resources in the previous blog post. You should also familiarize yourself with HSLDA (a nationwide homeschooling legal defense agency) and OCHEC (Oklahoma Christian Home Educators Consociation). Both organizations provide invaluable advice for getting started.

Third, know your teaching style. Are you a natural educator who makes every moment a learning opportunity? Then unschooling may be the choice for you. Do you love being out in nature and reading "living books" together? Consider Charlotte Mason. Do you want an education that teaches your children according to their developmental strengths? Classical education is your best choice. Blending the best of each style is a great option too!

Fourth, know your child. What is your child's learning style? Auditory? Visual? Do they learn best by doing? They may be kinesthetic learners. And remember that each of your children may have a different learning style. You can choose different curriculum for each of your children in order to best cater to their learning styles, or adapt one curriculum to meet the differing needs of each child.

Fifth, explore curriculum choices. Once you know your teaching style and your child's learning style, it's time to start exploring curriculum. There are far too many choices to list here. The best way to get an idea of what's out there is to attend OCHEC's annual homeschooling convention, where you can browse curriculum from a variety of publishers.

Sixth, build in! Now that you're all set to go, the next thing you need, and probably the most important, is local support. Get to know your fellow homeschoolers - and not just the pretty picture we all like to paint on Facebook. Share your struggles and find encouragement for your journey. Homeschooling is a blessing and a joy, but it is also hard. Don't be surprised by the trials - but remember we grow best through trial!

Here are some more links to help you as you begin your journey:
You can homeschool
OCHEC: Basic Steps
Confessions of a Homeschooler: A Guide to Getting Started

What advice would you give to a new homeschooler? Comment below!

Welcome to Lawton!

Welcome. We are excited you are coming to Lawton! Whether you are an unschooler, a Charlotte Mason home educator, a classical educator, or still learning what homeschooling is all about, there are many options for you here in Lawton.

Lawton Christian Home Educators (LCHE) is the largest homeschooling organization offering a low-cost weekly co-op for all ages, Keepers and Contenders, sports, homeschool band, and various events and field trips.

Lawton/Fort Sill Homeschool Association is the all inclusive homeschool group, welcoming all homeschoolers regardless of their religious views or curriculum choice. They offer book clubs, art workshops, spelling bees, field trips, park days, and mom's nights out.

Lawton also has a new Classical Conversations community where tutors model the classical method of education to parents and their students on a weekly basis in a fun, fast-paced classroom setting. We cover six academic subjects each week as well as doing several fun science and fine arts projects.

Several churches offer support to homeschoolers as well. Holy House of Loreto is a ministry of Holy Family Parish to provide enrichment opportunities for Catholic homeschooling families with children preschool through grade school. Dayspring Homeschoolers is a ministry of Dayspring Community Church and provides prayer and support for Dayspring homeschoolers one evening a month.

Still not enough? We also offer Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, American Heritage Girls, Upward Sports, Moms in Prayer International, Lawton Ballet Theatre, a vibrant community YMCA, a large public library...not to mention the guided family hikes in the breath-taking Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge.

Socialization for homeschoolers here is a problem. A BIG problem.

There's just so much to do, and so little time.

Welcome home!

What local resources would you recommend to Lawton/Fort Sill homeschoolers? Leave a comment below!