Homeschool Methods: Traditional

The traditional method of homeschooling is also known as school-at-home and most resembles the structure of a typical public or private school classroom.  The day and subjects are organized and scheduled much as if one was in attendance at school.  For example, a set amount of time spent on language arts, math, science, and social studies daily; with time set aside for art, music, physical education and other "electives" as well.

Those wishing to follow a traditional method of homeschooling often use textbooks for most if not all subjects and may order all subjects from one publisher.  Some traditional homeschoolers may also seek to closely follow the scope and sequence of their local public school or a private school and will order materials based on that sequence.  Other traditional homeschoolers may choose to enroll in a local umbrella school that prescribes curriculum or to enroll in a private school distance education program.

Some reasons that families may choose traditional homeschooling are:

• comfort in knowing that curriculum is thoroughly planned and presented through the publisher/school
• a desire to teach content similar to that in the local schools
• a plan to have children return to school outside the home at some point and a desire to prepare them similarly to the school system
• a desire to keep things familiar to students who begin homeschooling after attending school for a time

Some textbook publishers are:

• Abeka
• Alpha Omega Publications
• Apologia
• Bob Jones University
• Christian Light Publications
• Houghton Mifflin Harcourt/Saxon
• Peace Hill Press
• Pearson Homeschool
• Rod and Staff

 Some traditional distance education-school at home options are:

• Abeka Academy
• The Academy of Home Education (Bob Jones University) 
• Christian Light Publications Homeschool Plus
• Calvert School
• Lighthouse Christian Academy

This article is a part of series of overviews on different homeschool methods.  As many homeschoolers are eclectic in method and materials chosen, hopefully highlights from this series will offer insight into what is available to families educating children at home so that they might choose what will best meet the goals they have set for their family.

If you would like to write an article to share with others about how you implement a particular method of homeschooling, please contact Kim:  kimclayhs(at)gmail(dot)com   Curriculum/materials reviews are welcome as well!