DOs and DON'Ts for a successful homeschool experience #1

The following DOs and DON'Ts for a successful homeschool experience are being presented in a series to allow for digestion and discussion. After homeschooling/unschooling my own children for over 22 years I've discovered what worked and what didn't work for us was universal. Feel free to add your comments and concerns or ask questions.

#1 DO circle the wagons to keep the naysayers at bay. Surround yourself with like minded people who are supportive of your decision to homeschool. Stay away from the skeptic relatives and friends who will constantly undermine your every move and throw obstacles in your way. If they aren't willing to support you and your children then cut your ties and tell them 'no thanks' when they offer advice or try to make you feel like you're a lousy parent.

#1 DON'T recreate the school in your home. This is a huge mistake. It may be fun at first and what you are most comfortable with but you'll soon realize you don't need to spend all that money for desks, bulletin boards, learning stations, text books, lesson plan books or expensive curricula. Your children may even rebel against all that and before you know it you'll all be in tears trying to force feed 'schooling' on them. Create an atmosphere that's relaxed, nurturing and safe but has lots of resources your child can use at a moment's notice. Grading, testing and attendance truly doesn't matter either when you're homeschooling.