Homeschooling FAQs: Textbooks & Curricula -- Homeschool Christian.com

1) How can you use the Internet/computer for homeschooling?

I use our computer to make up tests and worksheets, as well as to make up lesson plans. I store those on a diskette. My daughter is learning to type and uses the computer for typing reports. We use the computer to play educational games and to look up information on our Encarta 97 (computer encyclopedia).

I enjoy using the Internet to keep in contact with several homeschooling message boards. If I have a question, I go there and usually receive an answer to my query in a very timely manner. Of course, I can assist others too!

The Internet has been a good way for me to research for information about various topics for school. Next school year, I plan to help my daughter learn to research using kid-friendly search engines. --Barbara C

2) What are some successful homeschool strategies?

My strategy was based on economics. I could not afford to purchase a curriculum when I started. So I developed my own, with help from a book titled How to Write a Low Cost/No Cost Curriculum by Borg Hendrikson. I developed a personalized curriculum for my child. It is also important to be flexible. I use our curriculum as a guideline. It seems very frustrating to me to see people stuck with an expensive curriculum and have it not work for their kids. Remember what works well for some may not work well for all. --Briva

3) Which computer software programs could I use to help my children's educational efforts or should I ignore the computer?

The computer is a very resourceful tool in education whether it be home school or public school. There are many programs out there to help your child learn. There are programs to help with typing, arithmetic, reading, spelling, history and these programs make it fun while learning. Almost all the software we have is educational. We have Reader Rabbit, Spell-It Deluxe, Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing for Kids, School House Rock, Elmo's Preschool and that is just 1/2 of it. We also have science programs, history programs, A.D.A.M,( which is a great program for health to learn how the body works). You can use the Internet for learning. You can also find a lot of free things on the net, or cheap programs. The computer is a wonderful tool and should be used! --Shelly

Homeschooling FAQs: Textbooks and Curricula