Fundamentals of Homeschooling: Notes on Successful Family Living

by Ann Lahrson-Fisher

OPEN IT. DISCOVER a resource-rich book that explores wide and deep below the surface of successful homeschooling. DISCOVER insights that unlock forever the clues to how children learn naturally through everyday family life. NOT a compilation of facts and figures, NOT a set of steps, and NOT EVEN an argument for homeschooling. Instead, ENGAGE IN A CONVERSATION that will deepen your understanding of how children learn in families. You gain insights into how family-based learning works as never before. Enjoy trying out many time-tested resources. Find out how everyday habits - play, conversation, togetherness - even growing up! - work together to bring joy to families while helping children hold onto their love of learning as they explore the world. Written in a friendly and conversational style, you will enjoy the author's insights into family dynamics. Every parent should have this information at their fingertips.

430 pages, Paperback

First published September 15, 2002

Reviews

[Carrie Ann]

I didn't really get to finish this one, simply because I ran out of renewals at the library, but I think I got everything out of the book that would be useful to me. Extremely practical, but for me, too much detail that seemed like common sense. However, this book gave me a lot of confidence, which was just as valuable as knowledge - I felt affirmed in wanting to do a lot of learning outside of the home, and she validated learning through boardgames; it doesn't have to look like traditional school where I make the kids sit at desks with paper and pencil, in fact, that is often far less effective than immersive, experiential learning.

[Nola Tillman]

If you've been following my reading lately, you'll notice the upsurge of homeschooling books. I enjoyed this one, but it actually took me some time to read through. The basic premise, however, is one that I readily agree with: children need more time to be children, and to have fun. When they are enjoying themselves, they are more apt to learn about what they are enjoying. Lahrson spends a bit more time evolving that idea, but that is basically her premise.

I like how she lays out several ways to integrate learning and fun into the family and into specific subjects. I also appreciate her "low stress" approach. Kids get too stressed out and frustrated when you focus on the results, and they don't function as well.

[Launie]

I really liked this book. I may need to get a home copy. She gave so many examples of how to teach your kids by just living your day to day life. Having kids count out cups and plates while setting the table, talking about the speed of the car, explaining phonics as you read together, etc. I would recommend this for anyone with young children at home, whether or not you are looking to homeschool.

[Nicole]

Really great home schooling strategies for informal learning activities. I returned it to the library without finishing it because I'm going to buy it to keep as a reference over the next few years. I'll finish reading it later this summer.

[Laurie]

This is an excellent book for anyone interested in helping their kids learn - whether they homeschool full-time or just as helps in the afternoons and weekends. I'm really enjoying this book!!

[Child960801]

A fascinating book that makes homeschooling seem appealing, even doable. It makes me want this for my kids. Also, full of lots of great ideas and resources.

[Bonnie Roman]

This is a great book for anyone considering or, like we are, going back to homeschooling. Covers every topic. Not from a religious point of view.