Ask HSF! Archives

Dear Homeschool Frederick!,

My name is Gina and I have [a] three-year old that is turning four soon. I want to homeschool pre-K, but do not know how to start. I am confused!

Thank you very much.
God Bless!!
Gina

Dear Gina,
Congratulations on your quest to start homeschooling at the preschool level! The preschool age presents many opportunities for growing and learning through various means: curricula, field trips, hands-on activities, cooperatives, to name a few.

There is no right way or wrong way to start, just dive in and encourage your preschooler to explore the world around him/her. Identify his/her passions, and then you can start teaching through a loose unit study based on her passions. For example, if she wants to paint, consider each day working with a new medium (i.e., Monday - watercolor; Tuesday - read about a famous artist; Wednesday - art museum; Thursday - paint with straws or other fun tool; Friday - finger paints).

For outside stimuli, consider joining a cooperative. Here, you'll experience the support and fellowship of other local homeschool moms and create an environment of learning with your daughter's peers on a variety of subjects.

Lastly, enjoy yourself. At this age, there are no milestone requirements. Take this time to read a few great homeschooling books to help direct learning as you venture to kindergarten level. A search at the local library will turn up many good reads, too, by experienced homeschool parents who started out just like you! And, consider attending curriculum fairs (usually in the spring and summer). You'll be able to pour over materials and pick-and-choose to create your own curriculum or purchase a boxed curriculum if that suits your style. These fairs also present dynamic speakers to help you in every step in this at-home educational endeavor.

When you're ready to start Kindergarten, you'll need to determine if your child's progress will be monitored by the local public school system or through an umbrella group. You can start with a simple phone call or email to begin the process. But, for now, enjoy this time of child-initiated learning at such an eager, young age! These steps should foster a love of learning and offer peace of mind throughout your journey!

Good luck!
HSF! Staff