Encouraging Ownership in Our Kids Education

Encouraging Ownership in Our Kids Education - 1:43 PM, Jul. 1, 2005
It just struck me this past spring how much my style of education was developing followers instead of leaders. When I asked my daughter what she wanted to study, she told me to tell her what to do and she would do it. I realized she was a follower. So, I have been thinking about how to develop leadership in my kids as they homeschool. One thing we decided to do was allow our kids to make some choices in their own education. This goes along with the concept: Structure Time, Not Content.

In March my husband and I decided that the girls needed to continue their humanities class (history, literature) and online writing class. After that, each girl would decide what else they would study. Did you notice we did not required them to continue math???? My 14 yo decided to continue studying Algebra and Biology. I was very surprised because she does not like math. But, she realized there was a future purpose in finishing algebra. My 17yo decided not to finish Algebra 2. Am I disappointed? Not really. I believe she can pick up that Algebra 2 book and learn what she needs in a short time. . . if she ever "needs to finish".

What will you require your kids to study this coming school year? What will you allow them to "own" or "take leadership" in their education?

Kerry