Educating at home presents many challenges, but thankfully there are loads
of helpful resources available that can provide learning content, organizational
tools, lesson plans and lots more. Here is just a small selection of the
resources available:
Google Docs
It’s possible you might think of Google Docs as Microsoft Word for
the Internet, but it’s far more than that. In addition to word processing
and spreadsheets, Google Docs offers templates, collaboration tools, and
integrates seamlessly with Google Calendar. You can even share class time
remotely with Google Hangouts. In addition to helping with schoolwork,
mastering Google Docs will provide an important life skill.
Project Gutenberg
eBooks can be a very cost-effective resource for homeschooling. eBooks
tend to be cheaper than hard-copy books, and screen-focused young people
often find them easier to read (and it helps that eReading apps include
handy features such as bookmarking and highlighting). But Project Gutenberg
is a fantastic site that offers many thousands of classic works for free
download. You’re unlikely to find the latest bestsellers, but they
do have a veritable ocean of works on every subject up to the mid-20th
Century or so. Definitely worth a visit.
Cozi
This is an app that will keep your whole family organized. It provides
to-do lists and calendars along with integration with Google Calendars,
but it is popular among homeschoolers because it’s great for scheduling
lessons too. Definitely a useful way of keeping on top of all your at-home learning.
eLearning for Kids
This is a website run by an international not-for-profit that provides
heaps of lessons on every subject imaginable, all for free (though they
gladly accept tax-deductible donations). Looking for help teaching calculus?
How about biology? Or just tips on mental health and bullying? They have it all.
Quizlet
It can be hard to prepare for tests and exams -- studying is such a struggle
for so many people. Enter Quizlet, which helps out with flashcards and
other study tools based on data from thousands of studying sessions in
a very long list of subjects. Learning efficient study techniques is a
crucial learning skill, and Quizlet can help you do it.
Prezi
There are plenty of presentation applications nowadays, including Powerpoint
and the previously mentioned Google Docs. One app that’s very popular,
however, is Prezi. Students love the ease with which they can create funky
presentations that look incredibly professional. You’ll be amazed
how quickly your child will master it.
This is just a small sampling of the many apps and websites that can lend
a helping hand in the hard work of educating youngsters. There are other
resources available, but perhaps the best help can be found in speaking
with an educational professional. In-home, one-on-one tutors can fill
in any gaps that may crop up in homeschooling.
