Advice From Homeschoolers

If you're interested in homeschooling or you're just starting out, you may have an overwhelming amount of unanswered questions. It can be difficult figuring how to start, which curriculum to buy, how to connect with other homeschoolers, whether or not it's the right choice for you, and the list goes on. Don't worry, we've all been there! So I asked our very own TMH members, who have been homeschooling for a number of years, what was one piece of advice they would give to new homeschoolers, and here's what they said.

"Join a TMH meeting/event or two before you officially decide to homeschool. Then start homeschooling before you're officially prepared to homeschool. You'll realize it's much easier and less daunting than you expected." - Homeschooler of 2 years

"Find out the learning style of your child. This will save a lot of tears for both you and your child. It will also allow you to design your learning environment and lessons to match the way they learn best." - Eva, Homeschooler of 7 years

"Plan a second stream of income so that you can continue homeschooling as your life situations change." - Bariah, Homeschooler of 13, 8, 6, and 5 year old kids

"Trust Allah and then the process. Give your children lots of space to explore and discover freely until they come to you wanting to learn-- and yes, it will happen (just like when you create the right environment for a seed, it certainly sprouts but at its own time). Instead of comparing them to societal standards, try comparing them only to themselves. To their yesterday. So long as there is growth, things are good. Alhamdulillah" - Homeschooler of 2 years.

"Don't let a lack of a teaching degree discourage you or intimidate you. You are more than capable of giving your child an excellent education. Go with the flow, reach out, get involved, and you will soon find a supportive community around you as you continue your journey" - Umm Zunairah homeschooler, of 3 kids, for 6 years“Remember that teaching in a classroom and home are two different fields of teaching. At home you are catering to your child so you will have to learn from him/her how to teach them in a way that benefits them most. Give your self roughly 6months to a year to understand your child’s learning habits and patterns. Experiment and have fun! Then inshaAllah it will be easy for you to plan lessons better for your child. Learned this the hard way 😁 “ Homeschooler of a 4 year old.

"As hard as it may be, *don't* buy every curriculum/workbook/learning gadget you find. Take time (at least 4-6 months) to get to know your child, their learning style as well as your teaching style. Chances are high that you may not use all the things you purchased, I know I haven't" - UmmHamza, homeschooling 2+ years

"Your child may not have the same interests as you. Be flexible. With time and patience your child will guide you towards his/her interests. Learn to nurture those interests and passions. You will be amazed at how well they do when you collaborate with them to pursue what fascinates them. Let them and help them discover their own path. - Dr. Fatima Kazi, Homeschooling for 1+ year

Do you have any homeschooling advice or gems you'd like to share? Share them in the comments section below!