Homeschool Reflection No. 3 :: On Methods, Philosophies, and Free Education

Luke looking out at the Atlantic on 9/21/12

When my family began our homeschooling journey back in the 1990's, I spent a lot of time learning about different educational philosophies and methods. I researched Rudolf Steiner (Waldorf), Charlotte Mason, John Holt, Maria Montessori, Dorothy Sayers (the Trivium concept), and a lot of others, some of whom were actual homeschooling parents like Dr. Ruth Beechick, Mary Hood, and later, Susan Wise Bauer. It was all very interesting to me, but also confusing, since each approach was hailed by its adherents as best and right for all children. Quite honestly, they all sounded good to me--I could see the merits of every method and philosophy.

However, each one came with its own requirements--some were more difficult or costly to implement than others (both Waldorf and Montessori use special materials that are quite expense). I soon found myself asking: is one approach more valid than the others?  Do homeschoolers need to have a philosophy of education or follow a specific method?

The thing I love best about homeschooling is that it allows each family to learn and grow together in its own unique way. While a particular method (like Waldorf or Charlotte Mason) may be well-suited for your family, it doesn't mean that it will be right for your friend's family. There is nothing wrong with embracing a philosophy or method, but one is not better than another. They all accomplish the same goal (educating the child), but in different ways. You can choose the one that appeals to you and best fits your family's unique needs and lifestyle.

Or you can ignore these methods and philosophies altogether and simply learn and grow with your children in your own way. 

A friend of mine recently asked me if it's possible to homeschool without spending money. The answer is YES.

I firmly believe that we all need far less than we think we do.

What do children need to learn and grow?

• A sense of love and safety
• Lots of time outdoors in nature
• Lots of time to play
• Frequent periods of quiet and solitude
• Encouragement to try and do ::  helping in the garden, kitchen, and laundry room; zipping, tying, snapping, buttoning, opening containers, etc.
• Books and stories :: regular visits to the library
• Basic toys :: kitchen items, blocks, simple doll, trucks and cars, dress-up items, sheets and blankets for forts, large cardboard boxes, soap bubbles, sidewalk chalk, rope, string, bicycle, scooter etc. 
• Paper, pencils crayons, paint, scissors, paste, and tape
• Music :: singing and dancing
• Daily, weekly, and seasonal rhythms :: a routine rather than a schedule
• Wholesome food
• A mindful, present caregiver

Many of the things on this list don't cost anything. A lot of the items you probably already have on-hand, and most of the rest can be purchased inexpensively or even obtained second-hand. The list for older children is really quite similar. At some point you may wish to purchase a math program, and later on a foreign language course. Early science topics can be learned through observation and children's books at the library. Beyond nature study, weather, space, the human body, and simple physics, it is not necessary to introduce a formal science program until high school.

I want to encourage you to do what feels right for your family. Whether you decide to follow an existing educational philosophy or completely wing it, trust yourself. Do not fret about your choices, and don't feel pressured to try something new unless it truly fits your family's beliefs and finances. And, above all respect the right of other families to learn in their own way, too.