Eclectic Erudition - How do *you* homeschool?

Raise your hand if you want to be put in a box? I'll bet you didn't raise your hand, did you? Over the years, I've taken a close look at many of the "methods" of homeschooling and have found that each has it's share of pros and cons. There is much wisdom to be gleaned from the array of resources put out by those who have gone before us, but that doesn't mean that there is a right or wrong way to homeschool. It also doesn't mean that you have to select "one" way of homeschooling and hold fast to it. There are as many creative and fruitful ways to homeschool as their are individuals in the world!

I have found that what works for us is an eclectic style that allows us to selectively and prayerfully choose that which fits each child's needs - methods, ideas, curriculums, activities, tools, resources, groups, etc. This multifaceted approach also leaves us free to discard, without guilt, that which doesn't work for us, no matter how "great" it might be for someone else!

I like to refer to our style as "Eclectic Erudition". So throw in a dash of Charlotte Mason, a sprinkle of Beechick, a flair of classical, a touch of delight-led learning, a lot of room for the individual, and you have a eclectically erudite style that is broad and comprehensive, yet works with your family, your needs, your goals!

Still trying to figure out your own philosophy? May I suggest a few good books for reading, a notebook and prayer. As you journey through the various methods of homeschooling, jot down the "best of the best" ideas and make a list of what you'd like to incorporate into your homeschool. Being Eclectically Erudite is about utilizing your own handpicked sundry options to gain knowledge and wisdom in one's lifestyle of learning!

Below are just a few of many reading options, but they are some of my favorites and those which I have found most helpful over the years.

Educating the Wholehearted Child by Clay Clarkson
The Three R's and You Can Teach Your Child by Ruth Beechick
For The Children's Sake - Susan Schaeffer Macaulay
The Charlotte Mason Companion - Karen Andreola
The Well-Trained Mind - Susan Wise Bauer
Homeschooling with a Meek and Quiet Spirit - Teri Maxwell

Education isn't about a particular method or curriculum oer se. It's about nurturing and developing the mind, spirit and body so that we make know God, live appreciatively, participate wholeheartedly, worship freely, love generously, learn continuously, serve fervently and persevere astutely.

Life is a journey of perpetual learning and keeping God at the head of the class will help guide us and keep us on the right path!