While your kids may not necessarily be ‘at school’ in the conventional sense homeschooled students still need to follow a state-approved curriculum. Even though lessons may be more relaxed and interactive your children still need to pass the same exams as other children. Try to stick to a schedule when homeschooling, imitate the school day and plan lessons accordingly. Field trips are also a great way to introduce a new topic or teach a child’s knowledge at the end of a unit. Not all life’s lessons are learned in classrooms so it is critical that you take your kids on regular trips just as any other school would. If you know other moms who homeschool their children why not get together and plan some awesome ‘class’ outings?
Government Buildings
United States Capitol at night
Most children, at some point or another, will be required to take a government class that educates them on the principals of government, how senators are elected, and issues that Congress discuss on a daily basis. Sometimes, this reading can be dry, so what better way to bring the information to life than with a tour of a state building? Many departments actively welcome those who homeschool and provide education packs. Older students could do a project on local government buildings including the local sheriff’s department, council offices, the county courthouse and even the state-funded health center. They could arrange to interview key figures from each department, practicing their research, and communication skills before writing an essay on why those buildings are important to the community.
TV Station or Movie Studio
Programs do not appear on TV, Radio, Netflix and Movie Box by magic you know! Encourage kids to find out more about print and digital media by arranging a visit to a local TV or radio station or newspaper. Here, they will get a behind the scenes tour as well as learn the different process that is involved in getting a news story on TV or a front-page headline in the newspaper. Local firms are usually very accommodating to school groups, and your kids might even have the chance to get behind the camera, be an extra in a pivotal scene or design a mock-up of a front page ‘splash.’ Older children who are looking to pursue a career in the media might be able to use the opportunity to ask producers, writers, and directors any questions they may have. While knowledgeable, enthusiastic teens may even find themselves wangling themselves a week or two’s work experience!
Living History
Drayton Hall, Charleston, SC
Plowing through a textbook on the slave trade is not very exciting but learning what life was like at a real life plantation house is! Look for places that specialize in bringing history to life, re-enacting key battles or simplifying historical accounts for children. Actors are usually history buffs themselves and they will happily answer any gruesome or gory questions that your kids may have. Do not forget public memorials such as remembrance statues, commemorative plaques, and birthplaces of famous figures as well as museums, state parks, and historical buildings. One of the benefits of homeschooling means you will not have to wait until the weekend to visit!