Homeschooling on a Boat

[katsumi]

Parents don't choose to educate their kids because of laziness nor do they make the decision to do so lightly. We didn't choose it because we thought it would be easier or for selfish, yachtie reasons. It's hard work.

I don't follow a set course like Calvert. Instead I consult the national curriculum in Australia to see if I'm on track, although I do find it sadly lacking. As a home educating parent I'm lucky that I have the flexibility to adjust, add or expand on it, at schools teachers do not have this luxury. What if your child really gets into a subject? In Australia today all students are supposed to be doing the same thing at the same time. Too bad if you are ahead/behind/want to know more/not interested.

Our daughters get to experience life as they should at their age, not sat in a room with children only in their age group, a ridiculous concept that has me guffawing every time someone asks the inevitable 'socialisation' questions.

Ironically the most common argument posed to me since starting this journey, is what about high school maths? I say, what about it? I completed high school, I know how to research both on the internet and at a library. I spent 12 years at school. If what I learnt, I am incapable of passing on to my children, then what was the point? Anything I don't know we research together. My girls are learning how to learn, not just how to recite facts or take (useless) tests. A great deal of what they are learning is in real life situations too, not just text books and the odd school camp or excursion, which when I was at school was an excuse for a lazy day.

I'm required by law to report annually on my children's progress. So far so good. As soon as it isn't working, you can bet we will make changes. In the meantime, if you are looking for inspiration or have any questions, check out my website www.homeschoolahoy.com. I am also on Facebook (there's a link on the website) and I'm happy to share our experiences with anyone starting out.