Sheen A few years ago, I attended a homeschooling workshop titled “Teacher Mom: Homeschooling and Teaching Young Children,” facilitated by Mamacademy PH at Work/With PH in Taguig. The speaker, Mommy Ivy San Diego-Guerrero, a seasoned homeschool mom, shared her experiences and insights. Mommy Ivy also writes a beautiful blog called “The Vine That Writes.”
The workshop resonated deeply with me because I’ve long dreamed of homeschooling my son. It’s a new idea for our family, as my siblings and I all attended traditional schools growing up.
Teaching Is My Passion
Ever since I was young, teaching has come naturally to me. I remember being in elementary school and teaching my classmates how to read and write. I even set up a mini classroom at home, complete with ABC posters, a blackboard, and little chairs, where I taught my younger sister and the neighborhood kids.
I also served as a Sunday School teacher at our church for a time, though I paused to focus on my family. However, my passion for teaching never waned. I hope to return to ministry when my son is old enough to join. For now, as an English teacher working from home, homeschooling seems like the perfect fit, allowing me to blend my love for teaching with my role as a mom.
Prioritizing Character Over Academics
While I am a teacher at heart, my primary motivation for homeschooling isn’t just academic. What draws me to homeschooling is the opportunity to shape my son’s character. In a world where academic achievements and specialized skills are often the focus, I believe building strong moral values will provide a lasting foundation for his future.
I have many dreams for my son, and I want him to explore different skills and interests. However, I am convinced that his character development—his patience, kindness, and integrity—will have a more profound impact on his life than simply excelling academically. As the Bible reminds us in Mark 8:36, “For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?”
Homeschooling provides a nurturing environment where I can instill these values while guiding him academically.
The Benefits of Homeschooling: Why I’m Committed
One of the biggest benefits of homeschooling is its flexibility. We can learn anytime, anywhere. Homeschooling also allows for more quality time together, creating precious moments I wouldn’t trade for anything. Additionally, homeschooling offers a safe, nurturing environment for my child, free from the external pressures and negative influences found in some traditional school settings.
I’m also excited about the endless activities we can explore. Here are some key areas I plan to focus on this year, thanks to the workshop:
Here are some of the activities suggested in the workshop:
Read a lot
“Leaders are readers.” I have learned that good reading habits in an early age can help them develop their attention span which can make them focus for longer periods of time. We were also reminded that “reading time” should not be only before bedtime. As much as possible we have to teach them the habit of reading anytime of the day. We also need to model it to them. I’m guilty on this because I know I haven’t given enough time to read books with him.
Sing and Dance
I noticed that my son likes to sing a lot. I would sometimes hear him sing “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” or “The wheel on the bus..” even when he can’t pronounce the words correctly. Encouraging them to sing and dance is a fun way for them to learn and express themselves.
Making Arts and Crafts
Thanks again to the internet we have access to a lot of DIY crafts and art ideas. This can help develop their fine motor skills and bring out the creativity in them.
Pretend Play
I’m not really a fan of this kind of play. I’m not good in acting or stuff like that but I have no choice hahaha. This will also be helpful for their social, emotional, and cognitive development.
Through all of these activities, the golden rule is to keep it fun. Homeschooling should be an enjoyable experience for both mom and child. We’ll undoubtedly face challenges, but the rewards far outweigh them.
No stress! No pressure! No crying moments! Well, it’s not a promise that we won’t experience these things but let’s try our best to make it fun for us and our child. Let’s enjoy and treasure every moment with them because they’re only little once.
