Home Learning Year by Year

Homeschooling families often wonder if their children are "on track" each year. If you are not in a state that has particular requirements, the book Home Learning Year by Year by Rebecca Rupp may be the resource you are looking for. In this paperback sized book, the author describes the basic skills most curriculums emphasize for each grade and subject area preschool through 12th grade. She uses simple language that even non-educators can follow and includes some suggested resources for almost every entry.

The suggested resources are one of the best parts of the book because it's a mix of commercial curriculum, games, kits, books you can find at the library, and even some web sites each with its own short review. Some of the materials are no longer available, but it gives you an idea of what to look for.

Learning is really a continuum-- there is rarely an "average" first grader-- but this book is great for giving you an idea of the typical sequence of learning. If your age-wise fourth grader seems to know what's listed in fourth grade math, go look to see what would usually be taught next in fifth grade. Likewise, if your child doesn't seem to be quite ready, look at what's in the previous grade listings. This book is a simple tool to help you find out where you are at and where you might be going!

Article by Heddi Craft