A major reason we rejected ACE. Why have children seated at desks where they can't see what is going on? At least in school I was able to look out of the window. Also, I have found a workbook only approach can be very dry.
I also like to change things sometimes. It can get tedious going through the same stuff with multiple children. Therefore I tend to look at the child's personalities and needs. For that very reason I have just started Singapore Maths with my ninth child. Refreshing? Yes.
One major thing I have definitely learned over the years is to be be free and relaxed. Not to worry too much about how much, or what they cover. Maintain your priorities. For the Christian home educator this will be putting God, and the Bible at the centre. A reason why I get extremely uncomfortable when people mention autonomous education. To the Christian, the word 'autonomous' should be a major flag; basically meaning the child is in control, and they answer to self. No! We are answerable to God only. The Bible says that children are young, impressionable, and that foolishness is bound up in the heart of the child. Proverbs 22. Now, whether or not you believe in corporal punishment is irrespective; children need correction and guidance. They need to learn discipline.
So, what do we do? Well, they have set work they are expected to complete, but when they are older they get to concentrate on specific subject areas. Now, for one son this has been the sciences, Maths, English, and Engineering. For another it has been English, story writing, composition, and film making. It really does vary. Remember, every child is different! Don't be afraid to mix and match curriculums, scrap book work in some areas, and take hands on approaches. I am quite strict about Maths and English,and Bible studies so require their bookwork in that area. However, the other subject are more free. After all, anyone remember how we used to walk around museums, as children with clipboards? It killed my enthusiasm. Dead.
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