So, there you are with your little four-year-old you’ve decided to homeschool. There are multiple schools of thought out there on how much “school” should actually be happening in preschool. Kids learn primarily through play but for most kids, especially eager learners, this can be a precious time to give direction to some of those play ideas.
Homeschooling a Preschooler
When it comes to homeschooling a preschooler, one of the best resources out there is the “Letter of the Week” curriculum. Titled “Brightly Beaming Resources,” creator Katrina Lybbert graciously provides free curriculum for reading, countries, and science. Her science curriculum is focused on the “Let’s Read and Find Out” book series. The series comes in two levels, the second being more advanced. The books are colorful and fun to read. They each focus on a specific topic – for example, air – and include a description on the topic and an experiment or hands-on experience. The books provide great information, but the key to science is getting your hands dirty; don’t let science fun end on the last page of the book.
Preschoolers are at a perfect age for discovery and exploring and what better subject to help them do so? When working with children this young, it’s important to be realistic. Keep lessons simple and natural. Mix in plenty of child-led learning with your agenda. Your own backyard or local park are great places to awaken a love for science. Creation is all around us!
Nature Study With Preschoolers
Every Spring, a robin makes a nest in our neighbor’s window which my boys’ bedroom window happens to face. It has been a priceless experience to watch daily in anticipation for the eggs to hatch and then watching the mama bird faithfully leave the nest and return with food for her sweet babies (even when that food is sometimes from my strawberry garden). Then, watching the babies grow bigger and stronger and finally, fly away. I could read many books to them on the life cycle of a bird but nothing would compare to this experience. If you are not near a natural nest, consider buying a Window Nest View Bird House. The house suctions to your window and gives you an up-close look into the nest.
Another idea is to have your own live butterfly or ladybug garden. These are available in many stores and online. Lastly, remember to incorporate a field trip to your local hands-on museum. Kids learn best through experience so involve all of the senses as much as possible – especially touch!
Resources for Homeschooling Preschoolers
Homeschooling a preschooler doesn’t take up near as much time as homeschooling elementary or homeschooling high school! There are plenty of resources available on the internet to help you get the job done. Here, I’ve collected just a few of my personal favorites:
- Letter of the Week Curriculum
http://www.letteroftheweek.com/science_of_the_week.html - “Let’s Read and Find Out” Harper Collins http://www.harpercollinschildrens.com/Kids/SeriesDetail.aspx?PSId=223
- Window Nest View Bird House http://www.nature-watch.com/window-nest-view-bird-house-p-1301.html
- Live Butterfly or Ladybug Garden http://www.insectlore.com/butterfly-garden
Written by Cindy Rinna. Cindy is a Christian, Wife, SAHM to three boys & a baby girl, and writer. Cindy is passionate about homeschooling, sharing with people about autism, ADHD & Celiac, and striving for healthy living. Connect with her on Facebook, Pinterest or on her blog, Life as a Rinnagade
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