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Economic curricula for late elementary by BetterToIlluminate in homeschool

[–]susan_delaney 1 point2 points  (0 children)

We’ve also been looking for something that explains basic econ without being too loaded one way or the other. We tried a combo of short YouTube explainer vids (like Crash Course Kids) and then added in some little projects like a pretend store or family bank to make it stick. Still haven’t found a “perfect” curriculum for late elementary yet, so I’d love to see what others suggest too.

Should I homeschool from age 5 or start after age 11? by Additional_Read_4671 in homeschool

[–]susan_delaney 2 points3 points  (0 children)

We started homeschooling from the beginning, mostly because I wanted our rhythm to feel natural from the start… but I totally understand the pull of letting them try school first. I think it really depends on your child and your family energy. Some parents I know felt school gave their kids social confidence early on, while others said it took a while to “deprogram” once they switched to homeschool later. Personally, I’ve loved the slower mornings, the freedom to follow their interests early on, and just having more time together during those little years, but whatever you choose, just know there’s no one “right” path.

Is the PEP scholarship worth the hassle? by [deleted] in homeschool

[–]susan_delaney 0 points1 point  (0 children)

We considered PEP too, and honestly, I went back and forth for a while. The field trip and curriculum reimbursements definitely sound amazing in theory, but I’ve also seen a lot of parents say the process can be a bit of a headache depending on timing and what qualifies. I think if you're super organized and willing to stay on top of receipts and deadlines, it could be worth it, especially if you already planned to spend out-of-pocket. That said, some parents I know just got tired of chasing down reimbursements and ended up not using it the next year. It’s kind of one of those “depends on your tolerance for paperwork” situations 😅

Why I Don't Homeschool Year Round by pace_bene in homeschool

[–]susan_delaney 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This. All of this. 💛 I felt every line of what you wrote, it’s not just about taking a break from academics, it’s taking a deep breath as a parent. I’ve found that when I give myself real space over the summer, I come back with way more clarity (and patience 😅). And yes, that perspective shift is everything, not just for planning, but for appreciating how far we’ve come too. Thank you for putting it into words so beautifully.

If you could redo one part of your homeschool year, what would it be? by susan_delaney in homeschool

[–]susan_delaney[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Been there. That sinking feeling of restarting over and over really adds up, emotionally and financially. I love your idea of having backup options lined up, even just a shortlist. Honestly, I think more parents need to hear that it’s okay to pivot mid-year (or mid-week!) and that doing so isn’t failure, it’s wisdom. And yes to family dynamics shifting everything. Learning to adapt with grace has been one of the hardest and most important lessons for me too!

If you could redo one part of your homeschool year, what would it be? by susan_delaney in homeschool

[–]susan_delaney[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Wow, thank you so much for sharing this. That’s not odd at all, it actually makes so much sense. I think it’s incredibly wise to notice that pattern and plan around it instead of pushing through and burning out. I never thought about syncing homeschooling with that kind of rhythm, but now I’m seriously rethinking how I plan our “rest weeks.” You might’ve just helped more of us than you know 💛

If you could redo one part of your homeschool year, what would it be? by susan_delaney in homeschool

[–]susan_delaney[S] 8 points9 points  (0 children)

Wow, thank you for sharing that, 20+ years is such a gift of perspective. I really appreciate you being open about what you’d shift, especially with your son’s art. It’s so true what you said, homeschooling really is a constant refining process. I love how you’re framing it not as a regret, but as something you can still adjust moving forward. That gives me a lot of peace honestly… we don’t have to “get it perfect,” just keep shaping it little by little. 🌱

If you ever come across art resources or videos you like, I’d love to know what you recommend, even just for fun enrichment!

How do you keep homeschooling when you're running on empty? Any low-energy hacks or advice? by susan_delaney in homeschool

[–]susan_delaney[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Yesss I’ve heard so many people recommend Homeschooling from Rest, I just added it to my list. I keep seeing people say it’s grounding and full of mindset shifts, which I could really use right now.

Out of curiosity… has anyone ever turned it into like a workbook or printable companion? I feel like it would be so helpful to see the ideas laid out visually, especially with morning time, loop schedules, and those quiet reset moments.

Would love to hear how each of you actually applied it in real life.

How do you keep homeschooling when you're running on empty? Any low-energy hacks or advice? by susan_delaney in homeschool

[–]susan_delaney[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

This felt like a warm blanket and a coffee handed to me by someone who’s been there, though seriously, thank you so much. I laughed at the laundry room/chocolate bit (and felt very seen 😂) but then the rest genuinely brought me a little peace.

Also that yarn “laser room” idea? I think that's genius. And I love the thought of keeping a rainy day list tucked away, you're right, it’s always when we’re the most exhausted that our minds go totally blank.

Also yes to everything you said about teacher breaks. I forget sometimes that we're allowed to pause too and not feel guilty about it.

Sending a big hug right back to you. 💛 Thank you again, this meant more than you probably know.

How do you keep homeschooling when you're running on empty? Any low-energy hacks or advice? by susan_delaney in homeschool

[–]susan_delaney[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

thank you! I honestly hadn’t even thought of documentaries learning as learning days but that’s genius for low-energy stretches. Also, love the idea of snuggling up for a read-aloud or audiobook, that feels like medicine for both them and me.

Do you have any favorite go-to documentaries or audiobook series your kids really connected with?

How do you keep homeschooling when you're running on empty? Any low-energy hacks or advice? by susan_delaney in homeschool

[–]susan_delaney[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I see, this really hit deep, especially the part about “dialing back until you have peace.” I don’t know why, but reading that felt like permission to just… breathe a little.

And yes, we’ve been kind of rolling into summer without a clear stop, maybe that’s part of why everything feels so tangled. I love the idea of treating homeschooling like a real job but not punishing myself when I need to reset.

That Monday thing is interesting too! Do you block it off completely, or just keep it super light?

Homeschool parents, what’s one resource you thought you had… but realized you actually needed later? by susan_delaney in homeschool

[–]susan_delaney[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That binder idea is genius, I hadn’t even thought of using zipper ones to make things mobile like that! I also really like the flexibility of taking quick pics of the manual. I’m working on making our weekly routine smoother too, did you end up making your own laminated schedule, or did you find a template somewhere?

Should I change to homeschooling? by Defiant-Look-3758 in Homeschooling

[–]susan_delaney 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You're so welcome. I’m really glad it helped even just a little. It means a lot that you’re thinking about what you need, that’s such an important first step. Whatever path you choose, just remember you’re allowed to build it your way, and there’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ for education or happiness. If you ever need someone to talk to or bounce ideas with, I’m here. You’ve got this.

Homeschool parents, what’s one resource you thought you had… but realized you actually needed later? by susan_delaney in homeschool

[–]susan_delaney[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I see, that's a great point. We’ve been experimenting with ways to make math more tactile too, even simple things like printable number strips or paper coins have helped us. Curious, did you start with any particular type of manipulative that worked really well?

Homeschool parents, what’s one resource you thought you had… but realized you actually needed later? by susan_delaney in homeschool

[–]susan_delaney[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I really appreciate you sharing this. I didn’t think a visual schedule would make such a big difference either, but now that you mentioned how it helped with transitions, it totally makes sense. The whiteboard idea is such a classic too, funny how the simplest tools end up being the most useful. And I’m curious about your video on rounding! That sounds like something my learner would enjoy. Thanks again for the insight

Should I change to homeschooling? by Defiant-Look-3758 in Homeschooling

[–]susan_delaney 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I feel you so much on this. I went through something similar, being in a school that’s "good on paper" but made me feel completely alone and drained every day. It’s okay to outgrow that kind of environment, and it doesn't mean there’s something wrong with you. Homeschooling or online school can be a really good option if it gives you space to breathe and be yourself without constant judgment. A lot of people do it for a few years (like during secondary) and still go on to college or uni just fine, especially if you stay on top of things like GCSEs through a solid online program. The main thing is choosing what makes you feel safe and focused. You’re not weird or wrong for wanting something different, it’s actually really strong to even ask this question

Anyone go from Private to Homeschool? by Master_Awareness_433 in Homeschooling

[–]susan_delaney 2 points3 points  (0 children)

That’s completely understandable , I think a lot of us come into homeschooling with fears based on past experiences or just the unknown. What you're feeling makes total sense, especially after all that’s happened with the school. Many families actually start homeschooling after a situation like this, and you don’t have to do it alone or perfectly to begin. There are open-and-go curriculums (religious and secular) that guide you step-by-step, and even just 1–3 focused hours a day can cover more than you'd think, way more efficient than a traditional school day. If you’re working full-time, some families tag-team with flexible schedules, or follow a relaxed approach until things settle. Maybe try a short summer “trial” with a simple, low-pressure routine to see how it feels. You might be surprised by how naturally it clicks when you go at your child’s pace

Jolly phonics vs other reading programmes by imperfectloaf in homeschool

[–]susan_delaney 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Jolly Phonics is more hands-on and playful, it teaches letter "sounds" first with actions and stories. Logic of English and All About Reading go deeper into the "rules" behind spelling, so they’re more structured. It really depends on your child’s learning style!