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Considering Preschool at Home?
10 Things You Need to Know About Homeschooling a Preschooler
By Jacqueline Rupp
Have you ever seen kids in a preschool classroom relish the pint-sized furniture that's designed just for them? Consider investing in some child-friendly furniture that will become a major part of learning time.
"It is so important that moms learn how to create the right environment for learning," Curtis says. "Preschool is set up for them, but you can do the same thing in your home." Curtis suggests putting pictures down at a child's height level and adding child-sized furniture that can allow them to become more independent. "Something as simple as a coat rack hung at their level can teach children how to take off their own jackets and hang them up," she says.
After homeschooling, you'll begin to see every activity, no matter how mundane, as an opportunity for learning. You'll also see play in a whole new way.
"I provide unconditional time for my children to play because all current research supports the fact that young children learn best, not through academics, but through play" Keith says. Many homeschooling parents like Keith take a nod from the Montessori belief that play is a child's work. Reading, pointing out interesting things in the world and answering questions are the basics of homeschooling. Fun activities like cooking, gardening, building and playing make-believe games not only will entertain, but they'll also incorporate important lessons on everything from math to physics.
Children naturally want to help out around the house, and this inclination is an important part of learning. "Children are like us; work gives us a sense of importance and it's the same with children," Curtis says. "Self-esteem shouldn't come from a TV show telling children they are special; it should come from real world things like work."