WHY I LIKE THE ECLECTIC APPROACH

This is very much similar to the eclectic homeschooling article I had before but it's still nice to remind myself why I am getting into this...

http://homeschooling.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?zi=1/XJ/Ya&sdn=homeschooling&cdn=education&tm=94&gps=120_5_1020_572&f=11&tt=14&bt=1&bts=1&zu=http%3A//www.educationalfreedom.com/heart/pages/eclectic.html



excerpts from THE ECLECTIC HOMESCHOOLER

An Eclectic homeschooler may like the concept, adapted from the Unschooling method, that education should be "child oriented." He will possibly draw from the Classical approach by familiarizing his child, through his own method, with grammar, logic, and rhetoric. The Eclectic homeschooler may utilize unit studies to his own degree their maximum effectiveness, using them to help his child choose what will be his vocation or occupation in life. He probably will seek out "living books," like Charlotte Mason suggested, though choosing only the classics that he deems worthy and appealing to him and his family. The Eclectic approach also can include developing moral character, with some choosing to do so through a Christian outlook and a Biblical worldview, like the principle Approach preaches. Eclectic homeschoolers may choose the approach of the Relaxed homeschooler, like Mary Hood, allowing the child to learn at this own pace especially in the child's early years. Then he may opt to speed his child through the rest of "school," like the Swann children were, using a structured textbook curriculum in preparation for college. And finally (at least for now) the modern Eclectic homeschooler may decide to step up to the Computer age, selecting some quality software that is fun and educational.

As for curriculum, an Eclectic homeschooler rarely uses a resource exactly as the instructions indicate. He will take the information and mold it, restructuring it to glean what he needs most from it. And absolutely EVERYTHING can be considered curriculum.

The Eclectic homeschooler considers that there is a time for everything, and it is up to him to consider the "right" time for everything to do with his family.

An Eclectic homeschooler is flexible, knowing that each day of homeschooling brings new challenges and opportunities. And he must always be looking for open doors and what works best for his child.

The Eclectic homeschooler usually recognizes we are all unique individuals, right down to our very own DNA building blocks! Christian Eclectic homeschoolers recognize that each individual has a soul that will live throughout eternity. And as parents, God will hold us accountable for our part in raising His child, so we must consider each child's unique needs.

An Eclectic homeschooler is always searching for something new and better, but at the same time is happy and content with his current choices, knowing that no one and nothing is perfect. We just have to give it our best shot!

An Eclectic homeschooler will gladly share what he knows, but will be the first to tell you that you must find your own way, that no one else's formula will be the best for you. Only you can know what is best for your family. He wants you to have the freedom that homeschooling CAN offer if you have the courage to take it. Are you an Eclectic Homeschooler?