To Lesson Plan or Not

When I began homeschooling, I started with the Abeka preschool program. While the content was good, it was far too structured and intensive for my 3 year old (and for me at the time, having a 6 month old as well). So we ditched the lesson plan and just used the materials whenever I felt the timing was good. This worked beautifully for these younger years.

For Kindergarten, I moved to Sonlight. I loved the structured, clear lesson plan and the materials were excellent. I stuck with that for several years, but was flexible with the plan and allowed for lots of field trips and extra activities.

Over time, our needs have grown away from Sonlight. While I still use their reading list for much of our literature, the rest of the program no longer worked. I didn't care for the language arts portion. Also, I teach both of my children history and science at the same time, so I build a program that achieves that goal.

Now, I have heard lectures and read books regarding "Unschooling". I have also read Charlotte Mason, Mary Hood and a slew of other books and articles regarding educational styles. And for this year I have done what every homeschooler should do, I have selected the parts I like from each area and have figured out what works best for my family.

I like checking boxes. I like to be organized. I like to plan ahead. And, I like to feel a sense of accomplishment. In a world where there is no boss holding me accountable or patting me on the back for a job well done, I have to be diligent in knowing that before myself, my husband and God alone, I am giving my children the best education I can. I have to know that while I don't have to follow the pattern of today's society, that my children will be prepared to function in that society. I will never force my child to "be successful" by our culture's standards which I feel are far too materialistic, but I do want them to understand the world they are in, and to be able to effectively evaluate what success means to them.

This year I am doing a complete lesson plan. Far more detailed and specific than anything I have created before, this plan will ensure that I have covered all of the subjects and materials that I have set goals for. It includes:

• Math, catered to their individual needs
• A rich, classical Language Arts program
• Additional subjects, such as Latin, Music and Art Appreciation, Character and of course Bible Study
• Classic literature
• Elective subjects for my daughters so that their specific interests are nurtured
• Full Science and History programs taught in the most fun and interesting ways I can find

While I understand that this much structure does not work for many families, it is what I feel is the best option for us for this year. It has a little flexibility for field trips and service opportunities, but not much. It will be our most structured and intense year to date. And I think we're going to like it.