Tweens, Tough Times, and Triumphs: Homeschooling the Middle Grades

by Farrar Williams

Middle school can be one of the hardest times of life for many young people. Their bodies and brains go through big changes. They can be grouchy, stubborn, spacy, and moody. It's no wonder that so many homeschoolers balk at teaching the middle grades.

However, middle schoolers also have a huge capacity for learning and creativity. They crave challenge and independence. They can tackle critical thinking in ways they couldn't just a couple of years before.

Middle school can be tough, but it can also be incredibly rewarding to educate at home during this critical period. In this guide, you'll find everything you need to tackle middle school, from homeschool philosophies and academic subjects to organization practices and tips for giving your students the right kinds of challenges. Written for both new and longtime homeschoolers, this guide celebrates the best things about homeschooling middle schoolers while guiding you through the road blocks you're likely to hit.

Genres: Nonfiction

296 pages, Paperback

Published June 29, 2018

Reviews

[Kacie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Helpful things to remember and consider, but I was disappointed there were no footnotes. Many times, the book said something like "studies show that..." If it's not cited, then I can't see the research to draw my own conclusions.

No footnotes, no bibliography.

Written in the second person, I think it is helpful like how it's helpful to have a lengthy conversation with an experienced home educator.

[Elisabeth Britton · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was an excellent overview of why to homeschool middle school. I found the neuroscience to be well researched and quite interesting.

[Maggie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just the mentor book I needed. Thanks, Farrar!

[Erin Buhr · Rating 4 out of 5]

Helpful. A good blend of story and encouragement and ideas.

[Erin Listman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely essential reading for the middle school years. I am so grateful for this book. It really helped me take that deep breath before I jumped in.

[Darlene Clark · Rating 2 out of 5]

The information was great, but it was hard to get past so many errors. I’m thinking no one edited this book before it was published. The author self promoted in a homeschool group, so I purchased.

[Jacqueline Scifres · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book! I highlighted so many sections and read them aloud to my husband. It helped me better understand my 2 tweens and what they need from me as their mother and teacher. One star off for lack of sources and poor editing.

[Michelle · Rating 2 out of 5]

Tons of information on homeschooling and middle schoolers.