Why am I so confident I can teach most subjects? Great question! I’m a science teach, certified in high school Biology and Chemistry. I have National Board Certification in Chemistry. I’ve taught in private and public schools. Before I retired, my home-school Co-op classes were allowed to meet in my lab at the public school where I taught. After I retired I taught in a small Christian school and worked with our church’s Co-op. My husband and I moved three years ago to help with our grandson. His daddy is the custodial parent; we watch him after school, vacations, sick days, etc.
When I first taught in a small, private, prep school, I taught French, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, Physical Science, Junior Literature, AP Biology, and AP Chemistry. Additionally, I’ve taught Human Biology and AP Environmental Science. I’m not afraid of a challenge. I’m good at languages, composition, and grammar. I know where to draw the line. I’ll teach Physical Science or Active Physics, not college level Physics.
I know that I have to work along with Lacie and do the same readings and exercises. My husband, Rob, is good at math. He was a math major before he switched to Accounting. When Imrun in to an issue, he can help.
Experience has taught me how to tackle new topics. The first time I teach a new topic, I stick to the textbook. I may add a few assignments, such as timelines, mapping exercises, etc. The first time, I go step by step through the book or follow the syllabus. I haven’t had Latin since high school; I studied French in France and took upper level classes conducted in French at University for fun. I took Spanish for fun, too. We selected Latin because it helps with Science: we are Catholic! Our church has a Latin Mass. Latin is useful! I can teach French—not Spanish. My Spanish has a French accent. Latin requires a great deal of grammar—I love grammar!
You can teach your child, too. Enroll in a program such as Seton Home Study School, Mother of Divine Grace School, Kolbe Academy, or one of the Protestant programs, such as Liberty University Homeschool, or Bob Jones University Homeschool. Follow the syllabus doggedly the first year—even if it means teaching through the summer months. I recommend starting in August, keeping a schedule (9-Noon, five days a week), and making the basics the priority: Faith, Literature, Composition, Grammar, History, and Science. Add piano lessons, soccer teams, Scouts, etc. after you and your family is comfortable home-schooling. Are you on track to complete each of the textbooks by June or July? Are you having class five days a week? Are you completing the syllabus for each subject? Are you including regular writing assignments such as paragraphs, book reports, and compositions with writing prompts? You can join a sport after your family has a schedule.
We’re on this journey together. I’ll keep you posted.
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