Choosing a Homeschool Approach: Finding Your Family's Fit
Traditional? Montessori? Unschooling? Classical? Explore the major homeschooling approaches to discover which philosophy aligns with your family's values and your children's learning styles.
Traditional/School-at-Home
Philosophy: Follows a structured approach similar to conventional schooling with textbooks, workbooks, and scheduled lessons.
Best for families who:
- Prefer clear guidelines and structure
- Want a familiar educational approach
- Plan to transition back to conventional school
- Appreciate measurable progress
Popular resources: Abeka, BJU Press, Saxon Math
Classical Education
Philosophy: Based on the Trivium (grammar, logic, rhetoric stages), emphasizing language, logic, and communication skills.
Best for families who:
- Value a rigorous, literature-rich approach
- Emphasize critical thinking and debate
- Appreciate historical context in learning
- Want to develop strong communication skills
Popular resources: The Well-Trained Mind, Classical Conversations, Memoria Press
Charlotte Mason
Philosophy: Focuses on "living books" instead of textbooks, nature study, art appreciation, and short, focused lessons.
Best for families who:
- Prefer quality literature over textbooks
- Value nature exploration and outdoor time
- Want to develop a love of learning
- Appreciate art, music, and beauty in education
Popular resources: Ambleside Online, Simply Charlotte Mason, Living Books Curriculum
Montessori
Philosophy: Child-led learning with specially designed materials, mixed-age groupings, and uninterrupted work periods.
Best for families who:
- Value independence and self-direction
- Prefer hands-on, concrete learning
- Want to follow the child's interests and pace
- Appreciate order and beautiful learning environments
Popular resources: Montessori at Home, The Montessori Notebook, DIY Montessori materials
Waldorf
Philosophy: Holistic approach emphasizing imagination, creativity, nature, and delayed academics until age 7.
Best for families who:
- Want to preserve childhood wonder and play
- Value arts, crafts, and storytelling
- Prefer limited technology exposure
- Appreciate seasonal rhythms and celebrations
Popular resources: Waldorf Essentials, Earthschooling, Christopherus Homeschool
Unschooling/Natural Learning
Philosophy: Child-directed learning through life experiences, following interests rather than formal curriculum.
Best for families who:
- Trust children's natural curiosity
- Value freedom and autonomy in learning
- See learning opportunities in everyday life
- Question conventional educational approaches
Popular resources: John Holt books, Free to Learn (Peter Gray), unschooling blogs and forums
Unit Studies
Philosophy: Integrates multiple subjects around a central theme or topic, creating connections between different areas of learning.
Best for families who:
- Have multiple children of different ages
- Want to follow children's interests
- Prefer project-based learning
- Like to see connections across subjects
Popular resources: KONOS, Five in a Row, Amanda Bennett Unit Studies
Eclectic/Relaxed Homeschooling
Philosophy: Combines elements from different approaches, taking what works for each child and family situation.
Best for families who:
- Want flexibility to adapt as needed
- Have children with different learning styles
- Value both structure and freedom
- Like to customize their approach
Popular resources: Mix of resources from various approaches
Finding Your Fit
Consider these factors when choosing an approach:
- Your child's learning style and temperament
- Your teaching style and strengths
- Your family's values and goals
- Practical considerations (time, resources, etc.)
Remember, many successful homeschoolers blend approaches or change methods as their children grow. The beauty of homeschooling is the freedom to find what truly works for your unique family!