HOMESCHOOLING FOR THE EARLY GRADES

By Angela Collins



Understanding the Foundation Phase

Would you not agree with me that the pressure young children (and parents) are under in schools is at an all time high? A time when children should be out playing in the afternoons has now become a routine of extra lessons and copious amount of homework! Why?! If you have a young child, here's something to consider regarding the foundation phase of schooling (Grade R-3):

So what are foundations? If you think about the building process: foundations are well mapped out, the ground tested to determine what building strategies/methods are required, deep trenches are dug out and then filled with strong concrete that will have to support the rest of the building.

From the experts:
“Building a good foundation requires a lot more than digging a hole and pouring some concrete into forms. It must be tailored to its site like a custom suit, taking into account soil conditions, water tables, even the quality of the backfill.” Extract from This Sold House by Max Alexander.


From a schooling perspective: laying good foundations isn’t about piling on a heap of work so that it looks like progress has taken place!

Foundations are something “underground" and hidden, many times not measurable. It needs time to SETTLE & BECOME solid. It is not about building up high at all. It isn’t very impressive looking, and would later become completely covered when built upon.

The foundation phase is about what is happening on the inside: confidence building, getting to grips with NEWLY introduced concepts. It is taking time to let concepts settle and allowing your child to become sure and confident these concepts. There are also a whole lot of other aspects of development that takes place during this phase that is just delightful to experience with your child!

Quantity ('the muchness" of content) doesn’t equal good foundations. Careful laying does, after taking every unique aspect of the “building site” into account....and then giving TIME to let it settle in.


Are you having difficulty laying the foundations of your child’s schooling? Take a moment to consider what you are trying to achieve and see if it fits into the right “phase” of building.

Every child is different and develops different strengths at different times. There is no need to compare yourself or your child. The laying of foundations for your child will be different to someone else’s. It is a delightful season with your child, one to be enjoyed together.

Are you considering homeschooling your child? Perhaps you have already started but still feel overwhelmed. I have designed this Homeschool Planner with careful consideration to make it user-friendly for those new to homeschooling.



Now available!! Get your printed copy of My Homeschool Planner. Ideal for those new to homeschooling or following an eclectic approach. 


Features:

A4 full colour interior

Guided Goal Setting & Vision Casting

Graded Milestones for grade R-3

Tips on balance, self care and homeschooling structure

Undated 12 x monthly planners

Weekly planners: includes space for sensory learning, craft time, experiments & readers

Time for reflection and ideas for looking forward after the year


Click below for a sneak peek inside.




The purpose of this planner is for it to be a helpful companion for the new and eclectic homeschooling parent.

When following the eclectic approach, one has to create your own academic plan, reflect on your own homeschooling vision and follow your own children's interests.

This process can be quite daunting for some, especially when starting out, so I have created this planner to help you on your unique eclectic journey. I give guidance on vision casting, goal setting, academic milestones and general weekly planning.

ORDER NOW! Take the unease away and ensure a good start to the new year.



Looking for more information about HOW TO START HOMESCHOOLING? Watch my video series about HOMESCHOOLING FOR BEGINNERS.

If you do have questions or are feeling anxious about how to lay your child's foundations, feel free to contact me. You can book a consultation.

Would you like to know more about homeschooling? Get my BEST homeschooling updates & special deals delivered to your inbox. Subscribe here.

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