As mentioned previously remember that development continues to happen in spiritual, physical, intellectual, emotional and social aspects. During this phase the intellectual development starts to happen more formally as you provide the environment and stimulation for that to happen. The more common word used for this development is academics. But do not be misled and do not think that academics is now the only focus there should be….all the other aspects stay very important during all the phases. Before age ten the focus should be on building a good foundation including aspects such as character, obedience, listening well, reading and writing, creativity, being able to work well and an enthusiasm to learn more. This is often called the Preparation stage.
Buy the Homeschooling Guide on Child Development phases for more info on each phase
1. Learn important bible stories
2. Participate in family devotions
3. Learn to read and write in home language(and you can add second language when home language is established well)
4. Learn to listen well and be able to narrate well. As communication skills development is still crucially important it is helpful to be aware of the speech and language development milestones at ages 6-7yrs or 7-8yrs or 8-9yrs.
5. Read good literature (no twaddle)
It is during this phase that most people who have started homeschool are the most worried….but it is specifically during this phase that the exciting flame ‘to learn’ must be kept alive. It is in this phase that children are usually so excited about everything. Use this time to make ‘school‘ enjoyable and establish a structure and routine so that they will form a good concept of what is expected of them to work positively.
One of the best resources that have helped me in developing a course of study for this phase is Ruth Beechick’s The three R’s (Grades K-3). These 3 booklets has such a logical natural approach to the the 3 R’s of Reading, wRiting and aRithmetic. These books are worthwhile to have on your bookshelf.
Another resource that has helped me to relax and take things more naturally is The Charlotte Mason companion by Karen Andreola. Her “personal reflections on the gentle art of learning” gives specific advice on especially the earlier years and how to gently instill a love for learning in your child. Worth a read !
My own curriculum compilation follows the logic that the primary goal in this phase is to learn to read and write
– preferable in your home language first and then another language can
be added later on. Look out for a good learning to read program in your home language as a start.
For a comprehensive AFRIKAANS language program buy :
For an English learning to read program see - Teach your child to read
|The Three R's is available in South Africa at LOOT or otherwise at AMAZON. Click on the bookstore of your choice to buy the book.|
|Educating the wholehearted child is available in South Africa at LOOT or otherwise at AMAZON. Click on the bookstore of your choice to buy the book.|
|Home learning year by year is available in South Africa at LOOT or otherwise at AMAZON. Click on the bookstore of your choice to buy the book.|