I have started a new project. Recently, I have been doing an extensive amount of research on homeschooling, to see if it is something that I would like to do with my children. The more I read and hear, the more I like it. I am a bit of an idealist, and it sounds so wonderful to me. Taking the learning journey with my children, and helping them make the most of their lives. This, of course, can be done in a number of different ways. Homeschooling being just one of those.
Through all of this research, I have discovered a few things. There are a pile of other people out there doing the same thing. Wondering and researching the same things. And, that there is relatively (in comparison to what is available for Americans – much of which is still applicable here) little information out there specific to Canadian homeschooling parents. Less for Canadians who are considering homeschooling.
So, I have taken on a new project. I have decided to compile what I am finding into a homeschool Q&A for curious Canadian families. To save others the work of doing all of this research (which I, as a librarian, love, but others might find frustrating and tedious). Making resource guides, after all, is what librarians do.
I don’t know what the final product will look like. I am starting with the concept of a short e-book. I am looking at homeschooling from the perspective of a prospective parent to prospective families, so the end result might be a bit different from what’s already out there. Or at least, a neat and tidy starting point.
I can see the project becoming huge, but, for now, I am just working with what I already know, and what I have found. It is my way of keeping in touch with my academic roots. It feels like I am writing an academic paper all over again. Which is really exciting. (Sorry if that sounds lame to some of you).
I guess you could say I am already homeschooling my 3 year old, as he has yet to go to preschool (if at all, the jury’s still out). We do so much home learning that it’s hard to call it anything else. As I imagine most families with kids under 5 do (but that’s the topic of another post).
Any Canadians out there with ideas, thoughts or resources they love, please let me know. If you’re not Canadian, but you’re a homeschooler, your thoughts would be much appreciated as well. Or favourite blogs. Of which I am discovering new ones everyday. There are so many interesting, intelligent, inspiring homeschooling families out there.
So, another exciting venture for me. Following those whims and passions sure is keeping me busy these days.
Love this plan!! We have also been very interested in homeschooling, although I think for us a part-time scenario would work best, which is what we’re considering for next year. Have fun compiling your resources – if I think of any I know of I’ll pass them on. 🙂
Thanks for the support. I’ll let you know when I finish it. I am finding all kinds of great resources.
Well, I dont know if you are interested, but my church has over 20 Homeschooling families and we have our own co-op that does things together. Once a month, there is a meeting for the homeschooling parents (including dads!!) to talk about issues and get help from one another. There are a lot of women who have been homeschooling a long time with a lot of wisdom. You would totally be welcome any time. Something you might find interesting is there are a few women who used to be public school teachers who are now HS-ers and are actually DL teachers for a bunch of the families. They would be an amazing resource to compare notes with. You can PM me on Facebook if you want more info. We meet in Langley, right by Superstore.
Sounds great. I will contact you about it. Seasoned homeschoolers have so much insight to pass on. And great to hear about local homeschoolers. I guess that makes you one?!
Here’s a link to a mom who is offering advice for Montessori homeschoolers. She’s not Canadian I don’t think http://www.montessorifortheearth.com/index.htm#programs
Thanks for the link. It looks fascinating. I’ll be sure to check it out in depth.