Please welcome this week’s Featured Homeschooler, Traci from Traci’s Christian Cottage!

As a veteran homeschooling mom, do you have any suggestions for those just starting out or considering homeschooling?

Relax. I think most just starting out get so tense, worried & nervous about the whole process of homeschooling that they don’t enjoy much of it.

Also, know that what curriculum you start out using, may not be the one you stick with: and it’s ok! Just make sure you are mindful of what is and is not working for your family. If your child is in tears using the highly recommended math program, then that isn’t the math program for you! It’s ok to switch and use what works better for your family.

You have a graduate! First of all congratulations! You must tell us, looking back-what would you change if you could?

Other than follow my advice above to relax when starting out; the only thing I might change is getting started earlier with music and foreign language. These two things seem best learned starting from a young age.  Also to make sure your child is involved in some extra curricular activities or groups; as these can be very important to certain colleges. Not unlike being involved in clubs, student counsel or whatever in a public school setting – same goes for homeschool students if they were active in similar groups in the homeschool community or in the community where you live doing volunteer work, sports, choir, etc…

What are your top 3 must-have’s for the homeschool?

My top 3 must-haves would be:

1. a computer & printer (with internet connection, of course)
2. a solid knowing of your child’s learning style – as this will help you in curriculum choices
3. join a support group. Online and/or offline – but connecting with other homeschoolers & getting that support is invaluable!

What do you like to do in your own “free” time? What are your hobbies, etc?

I  have a lot of things I like to do, but seem to rotate & do them in spurts as the urge strikes me. One of my greatest hobbies/loves are dogs. I have six dogs – 4 Cavalier King Charles Spaniels & 2 Shih Tzu + 2 cats. A few other things: I also make all our own soap using the cold-processed soapmaking method, I sew, do machine embroidery and love to bargain shop.

Have you ever had any negativity regarding homeschooling? If so, how do/did you handle it?

I’ve not had any negative remarks really made to me; other than the usual “I could never homeschool – my kids would drive me crazy” comments. My parents were a little unsure of homeschooling at first, but it’s been 12 years now, so they’re used to it. LOL

What has been your favorite field trip so far?

We don’t do a lot of field trips; but we enjoyed Meramec Caverns this past summer and plan to visit the Laura Ingalls Wilder home in Mansfield, Missouri this spring. We have been using the Prairie Primer unit study this year, based on the Little House books.

Interview by:

Nikowa is a 2nd year homeschooling mom to two boys. (Ages 9 and 5) With her “learning never ends” philosophy, they have an eclectic year-round approach to learning. When she’s not teaching, she enjoys photography, organizing, cooking, reading, and knitting. She is a #1 LOST fan and watches UGA football too! (Go Dawgs!) You can visit Nikowa at Knowledge House Academy.