Links
Homeschooling Methods
Relaxed or Eclectic Homeschooling
The aim of Eclectic homeschooling is to provide a customized education. Many modern education reformers suggest that education should be customized to fit the learner.
There’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all education. Even with the variety of educational philosophies and curriculum options, it’s still hard to find one that fits. Eclectic homeschooling takes a relaxed approach to finding what fits.
Charlotte Mason
The Charlotte Mason method is based on Charlotte’s firm belief that the child is a person and we must educate that whole person, not just his mind. So a Charlotte Mason education is three-pronged: in her words, “Education is an Atmosphere, a Discipline, a Life.”
The Well-Trained Mind
The Well-Trained Mind: A Guide to Classical Education at Home (first published 1999 by W.W. Norton and now in its third edition) offers a step-by-step, grade-by-grade, subject-by-subject guide to the classical pattern of education called the trivium. Thousands of parents have used the curricula, books lists, and methods of The Well-Trained Mind to teach their children successfully at home–either full-time or as a supplement to classroom education.
Unschooling
The unschooling method is based on the teachings of John Holt. The foundational principle of unschooling is that human beings are natural learners. Children are infinitely curious and do not need to be forced to learn. They will naturally learn what they need to when they need to.
Waldorf Method
Waldorf style of education is based on the teachings of Rudolf Steiner. Steiner was a philosopher and social reformer of the nineteenth century. This approach to education emphasizes creativity and imagination at all stages of the child’s development.
Montessori Homeschooling
Created by Dr. Maria Montessori, the Montessori method emphasizes “errorless learning” where the children learn at their own pace and in a way that emphasizes independence and choice.
Homeschooling Support
Home Educators Association of Virgina
Home Educators Association of Virginia is a member-supported, statewide, 501(c)3 non-profit homeschool association. Since 1983, HEAV has successfully worked to promote and protect home education in Virginia by working with the Department of Education and legislators, having a presence during the General Assembly sessions, and providing up-to-date information to homeschooling families, the media, and officials. HEAV, coming from a biblical worldview, serves all homeschoolers—regardless of religious or philosophical beliefs. Membership is, and always has been, open to all.
Virginia Homeschoolers
We are committed to providing homeschooling support to our members, as well as accurate information about homeschooling to Virginia’s families, school divisions, legislators and policymakers, the media, and the community at large.
Homeschool.com
Homeschool.com has been helping homeschool families like you for over 20 years. We help you lighten the load as you experience your homeschool journey. In fact, we believe everyone should homeschool happy! That’s why our team consistently provides outrageously beautiful tools, product reviews, guides, advice, and support to all homeschooling families.
Homeschool Legal Defense Association
Fulfilling the need for affordable legal advocacy.
Curriculum Resources
Curriculum Finder
Find the homeschool curriculum that fits your family's needs with this comprehensive resource.
Cathy Duffy Homeschool Reviews
Since 1984, Cathy Duffy has has been reviewing curriculum for the homeschool community. Her latest book is 102 Top Picks for Homeschool Curriculum. While her book includes extensive reviews of the top products on the market, this site also features abbreviated reviews of Cathy's Top Picks as well as more than a thousand other reviews of other homeschool products. She also reviews other resources she believes are important for those interested in homeschooling, education, the origins debate, and related political, and spiritual topics.
Testing & Evaluation Resources
HEAV - Testing
General information about Virginia state law regarding year end proof of progress. Includes links to testing providers, evaluators, and more.
Standardized Test Providers
List of standardized tests and companies that provide them to homeschoolers.
Chickadee Education Services
Charity Babinec is a local homeschooling mom and certified educator with over twenty years of teaching experience.
If you are looking for an alternative to standardized testing, contact Charity for a low stress year end evaluation for your child.