One of the best ways that a homeschool mom can inspire her children to learn is to give them the freedom to choose some (or ALL) of the things they want to learn about. My favorite way to allow my children the opportunity is to get them involved in theme and unit planning in our homeschool.
A great way to start this process is by asking them where they would like to go on a field trip. Once we have some ideas of what our children would like to learn we can then begin to plan out (or purchase) themes and or units based on the field trips our children would like to take.
For example, if your child is interested in method of communication, you could plan field trips to the local newspapers, radio station, TV station, post office, etc. to inspire them to learn more.
You can also do the opposite. If your child is interested in a particular theme, historic period, etc. you can plan multiple field trips that fit with their theme/topic of interest.
As an example, if your child is interested in water, a field trip to the local water department, beach, lake, oceanology department, etc. would be great options to encourage their learning.
It’s important that we take our children on field trips to encourage them to learn by using their 4 senses. Through field trips our children will be able to learn more by what they see, what they hear, what they discuss verbally and by using the hands-on learning opportunities that most field trips provide than just by reading a textbook.
Often field trips are not taken because they can be expensive or because locations are just too far away. Thanks to the world wide web, there are SO many options for online virtual field trip opportunities! A simple search on the location’s website could uncover an online field trip experience, also You Tube is a great virtual field trip resource! Add in the hands on learning opportunities when using the virtual field trips option, by creating your own at home using experiments, recipes, games, etc.! Don’t let finances or distance keep your children from experiencing this part of homeschooling! Think outside of the box and figure out a way that they can experience what they’re learning using the 4 senses, doing so makes learning come alive to our children!
If you’re stumped as to what to do for your homeschool or need to change yours up and add some fun, try planning a month’s worth of field trips based on a particular theme or unit! This is a great way to bring life (and fun!) to your homeschool!
You can find the rest of the Year Round Homeschooling Tips from this 31 day series here.
Are you looking for more tips beside what is being shared in the 31 Days of Homeschooling Tips for Moms?
I would love to invite you the community inspired by this series, as we strive to inspire, encourage and empower our readers in everything homeschooling.
