Zoë's steps to success!

           I think many homeschool parents fearfully ponder if they are capable of teaching their child. This was a deep fear of my husband and mine (especially). With this being our first year to homeschool and our eldest in the school system prior, this was even more accurate in our case. My other biggest fear was that I was going to fail my children. My youngest started Kindergarten this year. This year seemed to be important, this year she was going to learn to read and I had the responsibility of doing it. 

      Throughout this year, I have questioned my abilities, my patience, and my motives. There have been many tears in my eyes. I often hear negative feedback of what we are doing and my kids are often quizzed by a variety of people. My kids are always being measured to the public school curriculum. 

      I have often asked everyone if public school should be considered again, even though I am against some of the ways teaching is done. (I am not against teachers; they do wonderful and amazing things. More against the forced hand, that reins them). Everyone in the house eagerly disagrees to the mention of it (expect my husband, but that is only for selfish reasons). 

      This week has been a relief, a revelation and deserves celebration. Zoë has begun to read! I now know without a doubt that I was able to help guide her into this success. She worked so hard and accomplished it. 

      I have taught her to read using the sounding verse sighting. This I think takes a bit longer to learn, but it is a much better system that last a lifetime. I see the difference in my son who was taught the sight way vs. the sounding. He has trouble sounding out the words, he goes off what he has memorized. We do use the Abeka curriculum as well. This is one of the expensive curriculums but if you order it used you can save money. 

      So for all of the parents out there, pondering the decision you have made. From a homeschooled lovely lady and a homeschooling parent my dear friend said to me, “I have never heard of a homeschooler that failed if they were legitimately trying, seriously." (Julie).

     It is OK and completely normal to feel ignorant in what you are doing, especially if you are new at this. Nevertheless, try to have fun, embrace it and know you are doing great!