[dropcap]I[/dropcap]’ve been thinking a lot lately about the confidence {or insecurity} we have a homeschooling mamas and how this relates to — or rather changes our relationship with — our curriculum and how we use it. It’s a simple thing to say “you’re the master and the curriculum is just a tool,” but I think it’s something we need to hear over and over.
Because it’s easy to forget.
Today, I’m over at Teaching Reading with Bob Books talking all about it. Here’s a little snippet:
Do you know what a curriculum slave is? I’m sure you’ve met one before — perhaps you’ve been one before. (Or perhaps you’re one now, in which case we’ll try to help set you free in the course of this post.) A curriculum slave thinks the curriculum is her master, and she has to follow whatever the curriculum says — to the letter. The curriculum slave doesn’t allow herself to think about what is best for her students — or even for herself as a teacher. Instead, she exists at the curriculum’s beck and call, and when she doesn’t fulfill its requirements, she beats herself up.
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This information is so important to the balance in the lives of Homsecholling moms and students! As a CM mom, we have had a lot of changes in our curriculum over the years, and seen our lifestyle be more of a reflection of the “school of life” rather than “school at home”. It has been very freeing.
One of the greatest joys has been to see my children take their gifts, talents and interests and teach themselves. A few of my children’s areas of interest (writing, filmmaking, directing and acting) have culminated into a series of fun videos. It’s been an educational experience for them as they grow in their skills. Here is their latest. A fun parody on “More Dangers in Homeschooling”. I hope you enjoy! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azRhkWcYUGg
Thank you, Brandy! I need to hear that…again and again at times.
Wonderful post!
So glad you found it helpful, Ann-Marie! ♥