For those who are new to homeschooling, or maybe just beginning to explore the idea, it can be overwhelming to try and navigate the seemingly endless options that are available now. How are you supposed to choose just one, and how do you know which one is best? It can help to start by learning the seven primary homeschooling methods. Once you have settled on a style you think you like, you can pick curriculum within that method.
There are seven primary homeschooling strategies that families use.
Classical:
Classical is probably the most structured and ambitious form of homeschooling. Beyond the basic subjects, it emphasizes developing the whole person through music, arts, languages, as well. Classical education also explores our “roots” as a society by teaching Mythology, Latin, and Rhetoric. It aims to show the value of “ancient wisdom,” and to give a sense of belonging to the fabric of history by providing an understanding of how we as a society got to where we are today. A couple of the most popular classical curricula are Classical Conversations and Veritas Press.
Unit Study:
Unit Study homeschooling chooses a topic to learn about for a set period of time, and that becomes the theme for all school-related work for the duration. The family learns as much as they can about/through the topic until it is time to move on to the next one. This approach involves integrating all school subjects into the chosen theme, whether it is reading, writing, art, or relevant science or history- unit study often involves hands-on activities, such as time period lunches or field trips that are relevant to the subject. Unit studies can be purchased individually or through a company like Five in a Row, Sonlight, or The Good and the Beautiful. (Check out Cathy Duffy for a more complete list of curriculum options with reviews.)
Charlotte Mason:
Charlotte Mason homeschooling uses well-written literature and “living books,” as well as discussion and free-play to teach children about the world. It emphasizes a holistic approach to learning- teaching children a variety of different ways. This enables them to learn in the way that makes the most sense to them. Charlotte Mason curriculum acknowledges the unique design of each child, and encourages them to explore their interests so they can discover their full potential as the people they were created to be. Beautiful Feet Books, Apologia, Master Books, and Ambleside Online fall into this category. (Ambleside Online is a free curriculum.)
Montessori:
Montessori is mostly geared toward preschool and pre-k children. However, there are programs that extend through elementary and middle school. It emphasizes the idea of “play as work” and encourages independence through play and exploration, recognizing that this is how children learn best until age 6. More detailed information on this style of teaching can be found here. It often includes toys such as this busy board, various kinds of blocks, and other toys that encourage imaginative and cooperative play. For older students, this teaching method often shifts gears to focus on farming and other practical life skills.
Waldorf:
Waldorf education is a learning style with whimsy. It focuses on stories, fables, songs, and theater to teach lessons, morals, and self-expression. There is an emphasis on teaching through experience while emphasizing the emotional, spiritual, and artistic. More information is available here. Many of the toys associated with Waldorf learning are similar to those used in Montessori, but there is more emphasis placed on storytelling with Waldorf education.
Eclectic:
Eclectic homeschooling is just what it sounds like. Because no one curriculum type perfectly encompasses the needs of every family, homeschooling parents will often find themselves piecing together books from various different curriculum creators and adding their own custom content. This way, they create a homeschooling experience that better suits the needs of the family.
Unschooling:
Unschooling is the most unstructured of all of the homeschool styles. It involves letting children learn and their own pace in their own way, and gives them the freedom to explore their own interests and guide their education forward. Many parents opt for a more structured form of unschooling to help mitigate potential gaps in education that arise from turning over the reins completely to the child. However, at its core, unschooling is about allowing children to find their own path to their most suitable future.
Parents have found success and experienced struggles with all of these methods.
As you are exploring options for your family, consider your own personality and teaching style. Also, consider your children’s personalities and learning styles, and what your goals are for them. Do you think it is important to have a frame of reference when it comes to the history of modern society, or is it better for children to start fresh where they are and pave their own way forward?
Whatever you decide to try with your family, remember that you can always try another approach if your initial choice is not a very good fit. Go at your own pace, and try not to overthink it. There are more resources available now than ever before!
For example, if you like the idea of unschooling, but also worry about making sure your child can read and do math, The Homeschool Safari offers a complete curriculum and short, online classes with a live teacher for grades K-6 in Math and English. That way, you can be confident that your basics are covered while still allowing your children to explore their own interests.