Hi guys! First I want to say Hi, I'm new here. I've been homeschooling for about 7 years now. I love it! I've been asked to speak at a woman's retreat about homeschooling. This will be my first time speaking in front of others, I'm excited and nervous at the same time. I'm hoping you guys can help me. From what I understand, there will be a mixture of mom's looking to homeschool, ones that have been homeschooling for years, and teachers. I pretty much am good on what to talk about for those looking into homeschooling, where I'm stuck at is what can I say to those who have been homeschooling for a while. They will already know about the laws, different curriculums, co-op classes and such. So what would be good to talk about? What would you want to hear? Could you also tell me at least one thing you wish you would have known when you first started homeschooling. Thank you!
For the newbies - I wish I had really been encouraged more to trust my instincts and that my child will not be "behind" if I delay formal education or change curriculum mid stream and that every type of education will have gaps (gasp!!). It is more important to teach our kids how to learn and how to think than to teach every fact. For the more experienced home school moms - I also enjoy hearing how their educational philosophy has changed and morphed over the years. If you have home schooled high school that always seems to be a big topic in my area. Good luck and remember mostly they are probably just looking for reinforcement that they are doing the best thing for their child and that it is a mission worth fighting for.
Agree with valleyfam. I am new to homeschooling and the change in educational theory and application over time is what I would like to hear. Also, I have preteens and would be interested in that subject, how to encourage good independent study habits, taking good notes and making outlines, the options of college courses, what to look for in a college, etc. Not sure what teachers would like to know, though??? Most seem to be coming from a completely different direction than those who homeschool. The group you have is definitely mixed. Best of luck though.
