Homeschool Science Tip of the Month - Don't be a curriculum slave.

As we head into the new year full of promise and new beginnings, I want to encourage you to not become a slave to a homeschool curriculum. Instead, use it as a tool to teach science to your unique children.

Early in my homeschooling journey, I heard the following:

“Curriculum is meant to be a tool, not a master.”

I’m not sure who I first heard that statement from, but it is so true. You see at the beginning of our homeschooling journey, I let the curriculum be my master. I had to check every single box – no exceptions. I didn’t want to add in things or follow rabbit trails because that would throw off the schedule.

My fear was that if I didn’t do everything that was suggested, I wouldn’t get the desired outcome. As it turns out – fear is a nasty companion and usually a destructive motivator. We had too many tears in our early years as a result of the curriculum master.

I have learned that I, the teacher, direct how we use a curriculum. I adjust it to fit the needs of my unique student. I have the power to throw out the unnecessary things that won’t work in our homeschool. And I have the ability to add in things that will enhance what we are learning.

Never forget that a curriculum is a tool you use in your homeschooling journey. It can shore up weaknesses and enhance your strengths as a teacher. You have the skills to wield your curriculum instrument with the precision of a fine sculptor!

Here are a few more tips to check out: 

• You don't have to check off every box
• What science should look like each week
• 5 Ways you never thought you could use to teach science