You Might Be An Eclectic Homeschooler if…

You Might Be An Eclectic Homeschooler if…. Is the fourth method in our series on Homeschool Methods. Here we will answer questions like:

What is eclectic homeschooling?

Where do I find resources for eclectic homeschooling?

Can I use Classical, or Charlotte Mason, or Unit Studies and still be an eclectic homeschooler?

You Might Be An Eclectic Homeschooler if…

Let’s start by talking about what eclectic homeschooling is. Eclectic homeschooling is like a vegetable soup or casserole. It’s a whole bunch of different methods all stirred into one pot, or no particular method at all but something you have worked out as the best choice for your family.

I think you’ll find that a large number of homeschool families fit into this category for reasons like, their children’s learning styles are all different, or they enjoy doing unit studies for things like history and science because they can combine all ages but the kids each do their own math and English. Also, seasons in life change and you may need to change with them, using various resources and styles to suit a child and/or your family’s needs.

You might be an eclectic homeschooler if…

• You have your children memorizing multiplication facts and history dates, doing a unit study on magnetism, and studying English using a Textbook.
• Your child has taken their love of sewing and started a small business, while reading the classics, and working with a community group on conservation methods.
• You posted the interchangeable calendar and analog clock on the wall for morning time with your little, but your teens are late sleepers who do work on their own timeframe.

Resources for Eclectic Homeschooling

You can use any style or no style at all and you would fall into the eclectic homeschool category. The thing about eclectic homeschooling is that YOU CAN USE ANY RESOURCES FROM ANY METHOD!!! Eclectic homeschooling allows you to choose the resources and activities you want for each learning area.

For that reason I won’t list a ton of resources here. Instead I would encourage you to check out our Homeschool Methods series where there a loads of resources listed within each method we cover. PLUS we have loads of curriculum reviews here on the site. I highly recommend you browse by subject to see the variety of options to choose from!

• Eclectic Poetry TeaTime Planner and Eclectic Morning Time Workbook from Homeschool Mastery Academy
• Art Lessons for the Eclectic Homeschool Family from You Are An Artist
• High School Curriculum Resources for the Eclectic Homeschool from The Character Corner
• Relaxed Art of Eclectic Homeschooling…Not just a haphazard mix of materials a book from The Classic Housewife

All About Eclectic Homeschooling from Trusted Homeschoolers

What is an Eclectic Homeschool and How to Get Started from Courtney Messick at Homeschool Mastery Academy

Don’t be a Pedagogical Snob from Gina Munsey at Oaxacaborn Blog “You can blend elements of classical education in with other philosophies. You can. You can also use Charlotte Mason-inspired ideas for just one subject, without any obligation to implement Charlotte Mason methods for all. You can dabble in Montessori for your littles, then move toward a more traditional approach for the older ages. You can even (gasp!) change your mind.“

Eclectic Homeschooling from Kelly Kotanidis at Fearless Homeschooling “Think of homeschooling like a buffet restaurant. Each style is a specific diet. Maybe classical is vegetarian, so you’ll skip the meat. Unit study devotees are lactose intolerant, so won’t choose anything with dairy. And Montessori can be Paleo – no dinner rolls for them! If you’re eclectic at the homeschooling buffet, you can choose it all. As an example, you can use a classical approach to math and grammar, do Charlotte Mason nature study, have a Steiner-style morning circle time, organize a few unit studies based on interests, and incorporate project-based activities. All together, the activities and approach add up to a richly varied and comprehensive education.”

What Makes Me An Eclectic Homeschooler from Heidi at Starts At Eight “Personally I prefer a more eclectic approach to homeschooling, meaning that I like to incorporate several different styles depending on the subject. For example, I tend to stick to more traditional methods for core subjects like math, English, and reading. But I also like to think out of the box for things like science, literature, and history. We also enjoy blending in unit studies wherever they might fit in.” You will also find a link to a quiz that can help you decide what kind of homeschooler you are!

HOMESCHOOL METHODS SERIES

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