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Considering Preschool at Home?
10 Things You Need to Know About Homeschooling a Preschooler
By Jacqueline Rupp
(Shaw Books, 2002). She suggests parents consult quality preschool activity books for ideas on what to teach. "If you're doing things like drilling ABCs or learning numbers, do short lessons and don't let the child get frustrated," she says. "If you sense fatigue or frustration, do something else. Have fun!"
Curtis suggests simple tools for teaching the basics like reading. "People have learned for centuries how to read," she says. "A very simple thing to encourage reading is to incorporate magnetic letters on the refrigerator. There are secrets and techniques that make it a lot less complex."
Curtis advises parents on ways to get the most out of early childhood materials. "Teachers learn that there are certain ways to present concepts that help students to get the most out of these resources," she says. "You can easily do this too." Other than a few good activity books, Curtis says you can probably assemble what you need from a garage sale. Basics like blocks, paints, puppets and fabric can offer a springboard for learning.
Make sure your core family supports your decision to homeschool. "Are husband and wife in agreement?" Field says. "Have they looked at some books and materials together?"
Aside from family support, look for other homeschooling families in your community. "It is never too early to meet up with other homeschool families," Mavromati says. "We created our own co-operative learning group where we share activities with other homeschool families. Surrounding yourself with people who can share this adventure with you makes it both easier and more fun."