The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.
Martin Luther King Jr.
Homeschooling with the Traditional Method
The Traditional Method is a school-at-home approach using textbooks or computer-based learning.
This method involves parents (or videos) teaching their kids at home using a structured curriculum that is very similar to what’s taught in public and private schools.
With this method, you can expect to see daily schedules, quizzes, tests, and standardized lesson plans.
Who is this best for?
This method is best for parents seeking an accredited or ready-to-go curriculum.
Let’s talk about the benefits…
Convenience
This method is so well established, so many materials are available for families. You can find curricula by grade level, lesson plans, tests, quizzes, etc.
If you choose an online program, many have the option for your kid to work independently, which can also save you time.
College Prep
If you have an older child that plans to go to college someday, using a homeschool method with a structured approach (like the traditional method) can help prepare them for college.
Plus, you’ll have records of standardized grading, which can also be helpful during the college application season.
Transitioning
Moving onto a boat and traveling on the Great Loop is already a big transition.
If your kids have previously attended a public or private school, they might adjust to a traditional method a little easier.
Plus, if you decide to go back to “normal” school later, it’s not too hard to transition back.
Parent Confidence
Homeschooling your kids for the first time can be really intimidating.
It’s easy to worry that you aren’t doing enough as a first-time homeschooling parent, but using a set curriculum will give you confidence that you’re covering enough.
Establishment
The traditional method of homeschooling is a well-beaten path and has a lot of history behind it.
Because it’s been around so long, you won’t have any trouble finding advice for how to do school-at-home.
This is a very popular option, for many good reasons.
Many Options
There are a lot of online curriculum options that you can choose from.
You can also switch to a different option if you find what you’re using isn’t working for you and your kid(s).
A lot of online options also offer trials to help you find the best fit.
See more in the Resources section below.
Is the Traditional Method right for my family on the Great Loop?
As you prepare for your Great Loop Adventure, you might wonder if the “School at Home” style of homeschooling suits your family.
Choosing a structured, traditional homeschooling approach can provide consistency and ease as you navigate your journey on the Great Loop.
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The traditional homeschooling style can make transitioning back to school easier when you return.
It may also help keep your options open if you think you might return to a public or private school later.
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Homeschooled students can be very desirable to colleges because of their diverse experiences.
However, traditional method homeschooling might simplify college and scholarship applications because of the standardized grading.
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If making your lesson plans and curriculum sounds daunting, then using the traditional method might be a good option.
Many families choose the traditional homeschooling style because it's easy to get pre-packaged curriculum options that include lesson plans, assessments, and practice assignments.
Resources
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Miacademy
Miacademy has hundreds of math, language arts, science, and social studies lessons for grades K-8.
Beyond the core subjects, there are also different electives like learning languages and life skills.
The lessons are provided in teaching videos, PDFs with almost every lesson, and online practice that provides immediate feedback. Assessments are automatically graded.
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Abeka
Abeka supports students, teachers, and parents with academic resources based on biblical values from Pre-K through Grade 12.
Their teacher-directed framework and spiral learning method ensure students grasp, reinforce, and master concepts across subjects, fostering a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Abeka aims to help students grow intellectually, morally, and spiritually.
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AOP Christian Homeschooling
Alpha Omega Publications (AOP), founded in 1977, is a leading provider of PreK-12 Christian curriculum, educational resources, and services to Christian schools and homeschool families globally.
AOP aims to inspire and equip students for the future by promoting academic excellence and Christian values through its curriculum, books, games, support services, and accredited online academy.
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Abeka: Loop Family Review
One Looper family that completed their Loop in 2021 has used the math curriculum from Abeka for years.
They were featured in one of Abeka’s brand campaigns and wrote about it in their blog, Mom with a Map.
If you look at more of their posts featuring Abeka and homeschool topics, you’ll find that they used a mix of homeschooling methods to find a structure that works well for them.
Blog Posts Featuring Homeschool & Family Topics…
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Embarking on America's Great Loop offers families a unique opportunity to bond, explore, and learn together. Homeschooling on the Loop can be a great way to mix education with your travels, making the journey both an adventure and a learning experience. Here are some insights and options if you're considering homeschooling while cruising the Loop.