Before we look to a reading list let me just say – homeschooling will change you. We think when we start out that it is best for the kids, we may be able to see how it will benefit the family too, but be assured this homeschooling journey will grow you too in so many ways. It starts with filling your mind with new ideas. These are some of the books that shaped my thinking as a homeschooler.
For the Children’s Sake, by Susan Schaeffer McCauley: Foundations of Education for Home and School (Child-Life Book) (Child-Life Book) – this was the first homeschool book I read. The gentle, relational approach struck a chord in my heart.
Angel in the Marble, Chris Davis:You can set your children free to be the individuals God created them to be. But, first, you must rediscover what it means to be-not homeschoolers-but parents. This, “The Best of 15 years of Elijah Company Articles,” will help you find that “ancient path.”
Educating the Wholehearted Child Revised & Expanded, by Clay and Sally Clarkson: this is a very practical book that has been like a handbook to me. It lays out many homeschool choices and helps you through the maze, though the authors take a discipleship approach themselves. Visit Sally Clarkson’s Website
A Biblical Home Education by Ruth Beechick: I appreciated Ruth Beechicks perspective on teaching many subjects but this book particularly comes from a perspective where the Bible and your faith in God develops your worldview and therefore affects every subject you teach or study.
Beyond Survival: A Guide to Abundant-Life Homeschooling, by Diana Waring – a book written with very much a ‘can-do’ attitude – the only book I’ve read on homeschooling highschool. It gave me the confidence to keep on doing what we were doing – though make it age appropriate.
Every Child Can Succeed – this book has helped me identify both my learning styles and my children’s. I particularly appreciate Cynthia’s approach to making excuses (or rather not making excuses) and motivating our children. She simply comes from the perspective of understanding our children and using that information to help them succeed.
I’m not saying you need to read all of these before you start homeschooling – but they will be helpful to read in the first year or so as you start to find your feet and make your choices in terms of curriculum.
Great list. Thank you Belinda. I have also really enjoyed and been blessed by Sarah Mackenzie’s book titled, “Teaching From Rest: A homeschooler’s Guide to Unshakeable Peace”. It’s a book I tend to re-read every 6-12 months.
I have heard good things of this book and have it on my reading list (even though homeschooling is almost done for me!!) Thanks for visiting today.