“12 Blogs of Christmas” Entry

1. How many children do you have / homeschool?

I have five children. The youngest is only 2, so while he is, technically, always learning (just like most homeschoolers!), he isn’t considered one of the school-age children yet.

2. How long have you been homeschooling?

I have been homeschooling my children all their lives. My oldest is 14.5.

3. Have they always been homeschooled, or did they ever go to public/private school?

Always been homeschooled.

4. Do you plan on homeschooling until graduation?

Yes, that is the plan.

5. Do you belong to a co-op?

Not really. I belong to a couple yahoo groups but they aren’t in the same town so we don’t usually get to participate in their stuff.

6. Do you school all year long, or use some other schedule?

We usually take a break from formal schooling in the summer, but we learn all the time.

7. Do you use textbooks only, or do you like to supplement with other materials?

Well. Right now we’re using Switched-On Schoolhouse, but of course we will read, watch, or do whatever catches our interest.

8. Are field trips included in your school plans, or are they just family time?

Both!

9. Do you and your kids do crafty stuff together for school time?

Not usually, though I am considering adding art.

10. Would you consider everyday household life stuff ‘home ec’?

Yep, definitely!

11. Do you have any advice for new homeschoolers?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions of experienced homeschoolers. We’re always glad to share our experiences. If it isn’t working, don’t be afraid to change it.

12. Do you have advice for homeschoolers with little ones under foot?

It doesn’t hurt a big to have dedicated time with a little… and sometimes videos are a good thing! Especially educational-but-fun ones like LeapFrog!

(from TN Mom with 3 kids’ blog)