Many different homeschooling, educational and activity websites present clear and concise ideas for homeschooling curriculum and content. These are often grouped by age or grade level and area of study. Although some districts provide parents and homeschool educators with a pre-made curriculum, many homeschool families may want to use a web-based resource for additional ideas for variety and increased learning. Sites such as Homeschooling-ideas.com offer specific activity ideas along with information, resources, schedules and curricula. Other web-based resources such as homeschool-living.com provide day-by-day ideas, games and worksheets to use for educational activities and lessons.
Artistic disciplines such as the visual arts, music, theater and dance may be difficult subjects for the untrained parent. Most public school districts employ specially certified teachers for these areas who have advanced post-secondary education and professional work experience. The average parent who has little experience in the arts may find it a challenge to devise a thorough curriculum or even provide basic instructional content. Homeschooling parents may want to consult local arts organizations for ideas or added classes. For example, the Dallas Museum of Art offers a monthly Homeschool Class in which parents and children ages six through 12 participate together in hands-on activities. The museum provides parents with ideas for designing their own arts activities or viewing opportunities.
A primary reason for many parents to homeschool is the ability to individualize the educational program of study. This allows parents to assess their child's abilities, learning style, interests and preferences. As the parent decides on a homeschooling curriculum and activities, he or she can individualize ideas and tailor them to the specific child. This may include focusing on a favorite content area and integrating it across the entire curriculum. For example, if the child demonstrates a particular interest in animal biology, parents can use this and individualize activity ideas by adding animal content to each area. Early elementary lessons could include adding or subtracting pictures of bears or the use of plastic animals as math manipulatives for counting, or a middle school activity can focus on animals by planning biology-based research and writing lessons.
Other homeschool parents can be an educational resource for coming up with lesson and activity ideas. Look to seasoned homeschoolers who have experience with multiple children, and possibly multiple curricula. Host an idea exchange in which every parent comes with a top pick to trade, or join a local homeschool group that has monthly meetings and gatherings. Another option to gain valuable ideas from other parents is to join an on-line community or chat room. This allows parents to interact virtually, post ideas and get feedback.