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Homeschooling for the Rest of Us: How Your OneofaKind Family Can Make Homeschooling and Real Life Work
Home schooling parents are under great pressure. Besides trying to balance teaching responsibilities and family life, they often face unrealistic expectations from relatives, churches, other home schoolers, and society at large. Even parents considering homes chooling sense the need to be perfect. Sonya Haskins doesn't want any more families to give up on home schooling. In this book she shares affirming stories and practical ideas from dozens of everyday families who successfully deal with cluttered schedules, academic struggles, sibling squabbles, and other reallife issues. Instead of learning a onesizefitsall approach, readers will discover how to evaluate their own family's strengths and weaknesses and set their own goals for success.
176 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
13 people are currently reading
71 people want to read
About the author
Sonya Haskins
6 books8 followersSonya Haskins is a veteran homeschooling mom of five children and an active homeschooling consultant and advocate. She is the author of several books, including The Homeschooler's Book of Lists, and her articles have appeared in Homeschooling Today, Guideposts for Teens, and other magazines. She has served in leadership positions for the homeschooling community on a local, regional, and state level. Sonya and her husband have been foster parents for several years, hosting more than sixty children in their home in northeastern Tennessee. For more information, visit www.thehomeschooladvocate.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
March 31, 2014
This was a little preachy for my tastes, and I found that the heavy handed religious comments interfered with the readability. There also wasn't much new information here for me, though I imagine absolute newbies might find it useful.
March 3, 2010
I’m not a homeschooling mom, however, my husband and I have always said that if ever one or both of our children were to suffer from bullying or extreme difficulty with a teacher, we would pull them out of school and homeschool temporarily and as long as necessary. Thus far, our children are doing very well in school.
Nonetheless, when I was given the opportunity to review Homeschooling for the Rest of Us, I took it. And although I have a close friend who homeschools her children, this book was truly an eye-opener. It dispels the myth that homeschooling families are perfect. I liked author Sonya Haskins’ voice immediately as I began reading. She is honest, forthright, and a true advocate of homeschooling. I connected with her on the level of a busy mom concerned with my children, their spiritual and secular education, my husband, my work and my household duties.
If you are thinking of homeschooling, this book will give you the confidence that you can do it, no matter your family situation. If you are already homeschooling but need some advice, or motivation to keep going, this book has plenty of practical, hands-on advice for all types of families. It is easy to read, helps the reader discover a realistic (loved this!) but do-able vision of homeschooling, includes short anecdotes from other homeschooling parents, and doles out support. I also appreciate that she added a biblical viewpoint. As parents, my husband and I conduct regular Bible studies with our children. To see this advocated as part of a well-rounded education is to be applauded.
Haskins states, “Focus on relationships first, academics second.” How simple this sounds, but how true and profound! Living in a society where the workforce is just beginning to understand that emotional IQ is more valuable than the classical IQ, this is a piece of advice that can keep homeschooling parents focused. Not everyone might agree with Haskins philosophy of education, but I thought it wise and truthful. For the most part homeschooling parents do it for similar reasons—they want to create a close-knit family with elevated moral standards in a world where family and moral breakdown is spiraling downward at an alarming rate.
I highly recommend this book for everyone interested in his or her child’s education. It will give the reader a well-balanced perspective on education and the family. For more information on homeschooling and this book, visit Sonya Haskins' Web site TheHomeschoolAdvocate.com.
Nonetheless, when I was given the opportunity to review Homeschooling for the Rest of Us, I took it. And although I have a close friend who homeschools her children, this book was truly an eye-opener. It dispels the myth that homeschooling families are perfect. I liked author Sonya Haskins’ voice immediately as I began reading. She is honest, forthright, and a true advocate of homeschooling. I connected with her on the level of a busy mom concerned with my children, their spiritual and secular education, my husband, my work and my household duties.
If you are thinking of homeschooling, this book will give you the confidence that you can do it, no matter your family situation. If you are already homeschooling but need some advice, or motivation to keep going, this book has plenty of practical, hands-on advice for all types of families. It is easy to read, helps the reader discover a realistic (loved this!) but do-able vision of homeschooling, includes short anecdotes from other homeschooling parents, and doles out support. I also appreciate that she added a biblical viewpoint. As parents, my husband and I conduct regular Bible studies with our children. To see this advocated as part of a well-rounded education is to be applauded.
Haskins states, “Focus on relationships first, academics second.” How simple this sounds, but how true and profound! Living in a society where the workforce is just beginning to understand that emotional IQ is more valuable than the classical IQ, this is a piece of advice that can keep homeschooling parents focused. Not everyone might agree with Haskins philosophy of education, but I thought it wise and truthful. For the most part homeschooling parents do it for similar reasons—they want to create a close-knit family with elevated moral standards in a world where family and moral breakdown is spiraling downward at an alarming rate.
I highly recommend this book for everyone interested in his or her child’s education. It will give the reader a well-balanced perspective on education and the family. For more information on homeschooling and this book, visit Sonya Haskins' Web site TheHomeschoolAdvocate.com.
October 22, 2011
The book was readable, not too long, and had some good info. I did feel that the title or description should have pointed out that the book was told very much from a Christian perspective. If that helps you, and if this book is readily available to you, you might enjoy this book, but I read this after reading Linda Dobson's The First Year of Homeschooling Your Child, and found that one far better in terms of content, organization, writing, and overall comprehensiveness.
July 15, 2010
Some good advice but I'd really like to find some books on homeschooling that don't refer to the author's personal religious convictions every other page.
May 29, 2025
While there are some good tidbits of advice that I will apply, the level of her personal religious perspectives she included was off putting. And don’t get me wrong, I’m Christian, but it’s bold of her to not include any hint on the front or back cover, but then so heavily reference her personal views all throughout the book. I balked when she talked about how sinful our children’s hearts are, the discontent of Eve, or using the Bible as a science reference (I lean towards many stories being of a mythical nature…not meaning that they’re not valuable, just that they’re more vessels of truth rather than the truth itself). I also got a bit of family as a patriarchal hierarchy in there…which I don’t find healthy or useful. My husband and I function as a partnership with mutual respect and trust in the wisdom of the other.
December 24, 2022
From all the books of homeschooling, this one helped the most to believe I could do it. It was a great help in the beginning of our family's journey of homeschooling.
I guess I have to start with a fact that the book has a whole chapter on the famous "The Socialization Question" :D
I loved the chapter about routines and schedules. It offers multiple schedules of different families (as an idea, not exactly an example to follow). The chapter about "Dealing with Relatives" helped on how to talk to others who are not on board with your decision to homeschool (and our families are ok with that now, for the most part). It also covers homeschooling on a budget and homeschooling a special needs child.
I guess I have to start with a fact that the book has a whole chapter on the famous "The Socialization Question" :D
I loved the chapter about routines and schedules. It offers multiple schedules of different families (as an idea, not exactly an example to follow). The chapter about "Dealing with Relatives" helped on how to talk to others who are not on board with your decision to homeschool (and our families are ok with that now, for the most part). It also covers homeschooling on a budget and homeschooling a special needs child.
March 8, 2010
"What about socialization?"
"Don't you have to have a degree to homeschool?"
"How can you handle being around your kids all the time"
Did you know that in an informal survey that the author, Sonya Haskins, did, that 93 percent of those polled (friends, relatives, the educational community) that is was felt that standards placed on homeschoolers are higher than those placed on educators?
Not fair you may think and even then, ever have thoughts of how to manage your time, your home, your sanity while balancing homeschooling with being a full time parent.
If you ever have had any of these thoughts, you're not alone.
"Homeschooling for the Rest of Us: How Your One-Of-a Kind Family Can Make Homeschooling and Real Life Work" is a great, layman discussion from a homeschooler of five children that addresses the everyday concerns that the new, the not so new and even the veteran, homeschooling has about making homeschooling work for your home while also dealing with the questions that people have about homeschooling.
With both fun and also informative sidebars on almost every page of the book, "Homeschooling for the Rest of Us: How Your One-Of-a Kind Family Can Make Homeschooling and Real Life Work" ranks pretty high as a great encouragement for homeschoolers who are either thinking, starting out or maybe even just find themselves in a rut, to read.
Some of the chapters that are encounter are chapters such as, "Dealing with Relatives" (personally this should be the first chapter followed with "Homeschooling on a Budget" and close to the heart topics such as "The Socialization Question" (which this reviewer encounter recently from a public school teacher who asked "Why did you choose homeschooling" followed with, "What about socialization" (as my kids was happily and quietly playing with their kids, sigh).
Although this is normal topics that the average homeschooling parent deals with, "Homeschooling for the Rest of Us: How Your One-Of-a Kind Family Can Make Homeschooling and Real Life Work", also goes in really the more vital topics that many homeschooling parents, find themselves dealing with such as "The Special Needs Child At Home", "Pressure, Perfection and Progress" and of course, "Living in a (Very) Messy House".
An "easy" read at 172 pages and an easy to carry paperback book, although "Homeschooling for the Rest of Us: How Your One-Of-a Kind Family Can Make Homeschooling and Real Life Work" does not go into deep detail, at the same time, at thirteen chapters, Sonya Haskins, brings real world experiences that help the homeschooling parent at any stage of their experience, remember that they are not alone.
More of an encouragement, Sonya Haskins, accomplishes what she set out to do, break the myth that homeschooling families are perfect. They aren't but she helps families remember their visions of:
Homeschooling with the nurturing of a biblical worldview, a realistic vision of homeschooling that fits you and your unique family and homeschooling, help children become and keep being excited about learning and for you, the homeschooling parent, real-world, biblical suggestions to keep motivated and encouragement.
This makes a great suggested reading for families who might be on the fence about homeschooling as well, because of how Sonya really addresses questions we may not think about such as how dads can be both encouraged and involved with the homeschooling experience and I particularly enjoyed pg. 71 when Sonya talks about "Muddled Outings" and shares the comment:
"We fear that if otehrs see us lose our temper or our child has a meltdown, people will judge us. While this may be true, worrying about what others think can lead to low self-esteem and decisions based on the opinions of others. Try to remember that some things really do happen beyond our control".
Spoken like a veteran homeschooler.
"Homeschooling for the Rest of Us: How Your One-Of-a Kind Family Can Make Homeschooling and Real Life Work" is not meant to be an indepth, know it all, homeschooling guide book, but what it is, is a light hearted encouragement for homeschooling parents with tried and true suggestions from something as simple as dealing with the repeated questions to how to make dinner easy and still relatively healthy.
A little something for everyone, for the new, maturing and veteran homeschooler, there is a little bit of everything in, "Homeschooling for the Rest of Us: How Your One-Of-a Kind Family Can Make Homeschooling and Real Life Work".
"Don't you have to have a degree to homeschool?"
"How can you handle being around your kids all the time"
Did you know that in an informal survey that the author, Sonya Haskins, did, that 93 percent of those polled (friends, relatives, the educational community) that is was felt that standards placed on homeschoolers are higher than those placed on educators?
Not fair you may think and even then, ever have thoughts of how to manage your time, your home, your sanity while balancing homeschooling with being a full time parent.
If you ever have had any of these thoughts, you're not alone.
"Homeschooling for the Rest of Us: How Your One-Of-a Kind Family Can Make Homeschooling and Real Life Work" is a great, layman discussion from a homeschooler of five children that addresses the everyday concerns that the new, the not so new and even the veteran, homeschooling has about making homeschooling work for your home while also dealing with the questions that people have about homeschooling.
With both fun and also informative sidebars on almost every page of the book, "Homeschooling for the Rest of Us: How Your One-Of-a Kind Family Can Make Homeschooling and Real Life Work" ranks pretty high as a great encouragement for homeschoolers who are either thinking, starting out or maybe even just find themselves in a rut, to read.
Some of the chapters that are encounter are chapters such as, "Dealing with Relatives" (personally this should be the first chapter followed with "Homeschooling on a Budget" and close to the heart topics such as "The Socialization Question" (which this reviewer encounter recently from a public school teacher who asked "Why did you choose homeschooling" followed with, "What about socialization" (as my kids was happily and quietly playing with their kids, sigh).
Although this is normal topics that the average homeschooling parent deals with, "Homeschooling for the Rest of Us: How Your One-Of-a Kind Family Can Make Homeschooling and Real Life Work", also goes in really the more vital topics that many homeschooling parents, find themselves dealing with such as "The Special Needs Child At Home", "Pressure, Perfection and Progress" and of course, "Living in a (Very) Messy House".
An "easy" read at 172 pages and an easy to carry paperback book, although "Homeschooling for the Rest of Us: How Your One-Of-a Kind Family Can Make Homeschooling and Real Life Work" does not go into deep detail, at the same time, at thirteen chapters, Sonya Haskins, brings real world experiences that help the homeschooling parent at any stage of their experience, remember that they are not alone.
More of an encouragement, Sonya Haskins, accomplishes what she set out to do, break the myth that homeschooling families are perfect. They aren't but she helps families remember their visions of:
Homeschooling with the nurturing of a biblical worldview, a realistic vision of homeschooling that fits you and your unique family and homeschooling, help children become and keep being excited about learning and for you, the homeschooling parent, real-world, biblical suggestions to keep motivated and encouragement.
This makes a great suggested reading for families who might be on the fence about homeschooling as well, because of how Sonya really addresses questions we may not think about such as how dads can be both encouraged and involved with the homeschooling experience and I particularly enjoyed pg. 71 when Sonya talks about "Muddled Outings" and shares the comment:
"We fear that if otehrs see us lose our temper or our child has a meltdown, people will judge us. While this may be true, worrying about what others think can lead to low self-esteem and decisions based on the opinions of others. Try to remember that some things really do happen beyond our control".
Spoken like a veteran homeschooler.
"Homeschooling for the Rest of Us: How Your One-Of-a Kind Family Can Make Homeschooling and Real Life Work" is not meant to be an indepth, know it all, homeschooling guide book, but what it is, is a light hearted encouragement for homeschooling parents with tried and true suggestions from something as simple as dealing with the repeated questions to how to make dinner easy and still relatively healthy.
A little something for everyone, for the new, maturing and veteran homeschooler, there is a little bit of everything in, "Homeschooling for the Rest of Us: How Your One-Of-a Kind Family Can Make Homeschooling and Real Life Work".
December 21, 2010
I was homeschooled for the vast majority of my 12 years of school. But it wasn't until my wife and I started homeschooling our own children that I realized just how stressful it can be. To put it simply enough, homeschooling can be intimidating. This is a fitting point for me to stop and give a huge "thank you" to my parents for sticking it out. Thanks Mom and Dad!
It's fairly intimidating to know that you are responsible for your children's education, and not just in the sense of making sure they do their homework before school the next day. It's knowing that you have to actually find the material they'll need to study and then teach it to them. With all the decisions that need to be made - what curriculum, if any, should we use? should we do school four days or five days of the week? what if we just can't handle it? - making the decision to homeschool your children is an incredibly daunting prospect.
Sonya Haskins has written a very helpful and insightful little book, Homeschooling for the Rest of Us. The subtitle is a good indicator of what to expect: How Your One-of-a-Kind Family Can Make Homeschooling and Real Life Work. The key emphasis here is the "real life" part and is perhaps the best part about the book. Haskins points out the stress that many families experience of living up to other's - and sometimes even our own - unreasonable expectations of perfection. Expectations like: our children must be the smartest kids in town, must be able to read by age 2, finished all literary classics by age 10, & understanding and calculating quantum physics by age 14 - all the while with a perfect, spotlessly clean house. Instead of focusing on such unrealistic expectations, Haskins encourages the homeschooling family (or prospective homeschooling family) to first and most importantly develop positive parent-child relationships. She also addresses the topic of routines, academics, extracurricular activities, and the seemingly all-pervasive concern of socialization.
Perhaps the one minor negative point worth mentioning are the sidebar quotes with letters other homeschooling families have written to Haskins. While some readers might benefit from these, overall I found them distracting and not adding much at all to what Haskins had already said. But on the other hand, my wife said this is one of the things she liked the most about book, reading about other families' experiences.
I was very encouraged by Haskins down-to-earth approach. As I read, I found myself reading bits and pieces to my wife until I finally said, "You should just read the book for yourself. It's quite good!" She is over halfway through and completely agrees with my recommendation. I am glad that we read this book close to the beginning of our homeschooling journey, receiving the benefit of Haskins wisdom.
(Thanks to Bethany House for providing a copy of this book for review purposes.)
It's fairly intimidating to know that you are responsible for your children's education, and not just in the sense of making sure they do their homework before school the next day. It's knowing that you have to actually find the material they'll need to study and then teach it to them. With all the decisions that need to be made - what curriculum, if any, should we use? should we do school four days or five days of the week? what if we just can't handle it? - making the decision to homeschool your children is an incredibly daunting prospect.
Sonya Haskins has written a very helpful and insightful little book, Homeschooling for the Rest of Us. The subtitle is a good indicator of what to expect: How Your One-of-a-Kind Family Can Make Homeschooling and Real Life Work. The key emphasis here is the "real life" part and is perhaps the best part about the book. Haskins points out the stress that many families experience of living up to other's - and sometimes even our own - unreasonable expectations of perfection. Expectations like: our children must be the smartest kids in town, must be able to read by age 2, finished all literary classics by age 10, & understanding and calculating quantum physics by age 14 - all the while with a perfect, spotlessly clean house. Instead of focusing on such unrealistic expectations, Haskins encourages the homeschooling family (or prospective homeschooling family) to first and most importantly develop positive parent-child relationships. She also addresses the topic of routines, academics, extracurricular activities, and the seemingly all-pervasive concern of socialization.
Perhaps the one minor negative point worth mentioning are the sidebar quotes with letters other homeschooling families have written to Haskins. While some readers might benefit from these, overall I found them distracting and not adding much at all to what Haskins had already said. But on the other hand, my wife said this is one of the things she liked the most about book, reading about other families' experiences.
I was very encouraged by Haskins down-to-earth approach. As I read, I found myself reading bits and pieces to my wife until I finally said, "You should just read the book for yourself. It's quite good!" She is over halfway through and completely agrees with my recommendation. I am glad that we read this book close to the beginning of our homeschooling journey, receiving the benefit of Haskins wisdom.
(Thanks to Bethany House for providing a copy of this book for review purposes.)
April 14, 2010
Title: HOMESCHOOLING FOR THE REST OF US
Author: Sonya Haskins
Publisher: Bethany House
January 2010
ISBN: 978-0-7642-0739-6
Genre: Inspirational/home school
It’s time to break a myth: Homeschooling families aren’t perfect. (from back cover)
Are you tired of seeing the pictures of large homeschooling families, all dressed immaculately, and in matching clothes designed by their preteen daughter in her spare time? Good news! There are some families out there that are just normal people, we don’t have twelve children, and we may only have one or two. We don’t have a perfectly designed house which is cleaned daily; instead we have piles of books, craft supplies, and other miscellaneous items lying around.
HOMESCHOOLING FOR THE REST OF US is a practical guide that will help normal everyday people to begin homeschooling, or face some of the challenges that they are incurring in the day to day walk.
The author addresses topics such as socialization, finding a routine, addressing concerns from friends and family, nurturing a biblical worldview, chores, and much much more.
HOMESCHOOLING FOR THE REST OF US is the book that would have been helpful for me back in the beginning when I started homeschooling. I didn’t know anything about it and I quickly discovered that I was not that perfect family pictured on the cover of a magazine. I have real children who struggle with concentrating, who didn’t fit into the public school mold that I tried to force them into, and well, they weren’t perfect. I had to learn on my own that trips to the grocery store can count as school work. Field trips don’t have to be elaborately planned events, but can be a simple family trip to a local farm to watch them harvest maple syrup…or shear sheep.
If you are considering homeschooling or worried that your family isn’t matching up with another family you know, then HOMESCHOOLING FOR THE REST OF US is a book that will encourage you as well as guide you as you make decisions that will be right for your family. $13.99. 172 pages.
Author: Sonya Haskins
Publisher: Bethany House
January 2010
ISBN: 978-0-7642-0739-6
Genre: Inspirational/home school
It’s time to break a myth: Homeschooling families aren’t perfect. (from back cover)
Are you tired of seeing the pictures of large homeschooling families, all dressed immaculately, and in matching clothes designed by their preteen daughter in her spare time? Good news! There are some families out there that are just normal people, we don’t have twelve children, and we may only have one or two. We don’t have a perfectly designed house which is cleaned daily; instead we have piles of books, craft supplies, and other miscellaneous items lying around.
HOMESCHOOLING FOR THE REST OF US is a practical guide that will help normal everyday people to begin homeschooling, or face some of the challenges that they are incurring in the day to day walk.
The author addresses topics such as socialization, finding a routine, addressing concerns from friends and family, nurturing a biblical worldview, chores, and much much more.
HOMESCHOOLING FOR THE REST OF US is the book that would have been helpful for me back in the beginning when I started homeschooling. I didn’t know anything about it and I quickly discovered that I was not that perfect family pictured on the cover of a magazine. I have real children who struggle with concentrating, who didn’t fit into the public school mold that I tried to force them into, and well, they weren’t perfect. I had to learn on my own that trips to the grocery store can count as school work. Field trips don’t have to be elaborately planned events, but can be a simple family trip to a local farm to watch them harvest maple syrup…or shear sheep.
If you are considering homeschooling or worried that your family isn’t matching up with another family you know, then HOMESCHOOLING FOR THE REST OF US is a book that will encourage you as well as guide you as you make decisions that will be right for your family. $13.99. 172 pages.
March 16, 2010
Sonya Haskins has done a great job writing this book. Her experience, wisdom, empathy, as well as her passion for homeschooling have enabled her to greatly help the homeschooling community.
Haskins starts out by reminding us that the perfect families that we see in the magazines are usually not so perfect: they have their bad days, too. She reminds us that we need not set our goals so high that they can never be reached. Homeschooling families often stress themselves out, burn themselves out, and then give up due to setting goals that are simply unreasonable. Haskins reminds us that each family is unique and must set goals wisely.
From scheduling lessons to activities and outside involvement, Haskins reminds us to keep one thing in view: we are teaching and training our children. Nothing should get in the way of that.
The author also helps us to understand why some people respond negatively to those who homeschool. It is not that they are always against homeschooling as much as they sometimes feel inadequate when comparing themselves with homeschooling families, or they may even feel that homeschooling parents are passing judgment on them for not homeschooling their children.
What does one say in reply to innocent, or not so innocent remarks that are made by people when they see your homeschooling family? Haskins has a section in which she deals with these things and gives suggestions concerning how we may politely reply to these questions.
Whether one is new at homeschooling, or is a veteran, I cannot help but think that Homeschooling for the Rest of Us will provide much help.
Haskins starts out by reminding us that the perfect families that we see in the magazines are usually not so perfect: they have their bad days, too. She reminds us that we need not set our goals so high that they can never be reached. Homeschooling families often stress themselves out, burn themselves out, and then give up due to setting goals that are simply unreasonable. Haskins reminds us that each family is unique and must set goals wisely.
From scheduling lessons to activities and outside involvement, Haskins reminds us to keep one thing in view: we are teaching and training our children. Nothing should get in the way of that.
The author also helps us to understand why some people respond negatively to those who homeschool. It is not that they are always against homeschooling as much as they sometimes feel inadequate when comparing themselves with homeschooling families, or they may even feel that homeschooling parents are passing judgment on them for not homeschooling their children.
What does one say in reply to innocent, or not so innocent remarks that are made by people when they see your homeschooling family? Haskins has a section in which she deals with these things and gives suggestions concerning how we may politely reply to these questions.
Whether one is new at homeschooling, or is a veteran, I cannot help but think that Homeschooling for the Rest of Us will provide much help.
December 28, 2012
The author shares her homeschooling experiences in a simple and honest way. She comments on what has worked for her family and offers practical solutions to every day situations that may arise, always having in consideration that family context and needs are always different. Therefore, she focuses on making people realize that, if they're homeschooling, they need to find their own way and use what works for them, attaining a unique and individualized education. It is generally thought that education focuses only in the academics, but Mrs. Haskins reminds us that family relationships, identity, Biblical principles and attitudes is what actual education is about; knowledge is just information, but wisdom goes way beyond that, providing the tools for the students to use that knowledge in the best possible way. What I find more interesting is her interest in making her children responsible for their own learning. Being a teacher and trainer, I can testify that Mrs. Haskins's techniques and approaches are what many experts would like to achieve. Yes, this book is intended to help homeschoolers, but the education principles it contains are so valuable that any person really interested in their students' learning development, whether it's in a class room or in home, will largely profit from reading it.
That's what her advice seeks to attain, along with a renewed joy for learning.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Bethany House publishers, but in no way does this bias my opinion on the book or the author.
That's what her advice seeks to attain, along with a renewed joy for learning.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Bethany House publishers, but in no way does this bias my opinion on the book or the author.
March 4, 2010
Homeschooling for the Rest of Us, Sonya Haskins
I wish I had this book in hand my first year of homeschooling instead of some that I did. This is a surprising inspiration to the homeschooling family. It is not packed with rigid home school ideals, schedules, or unattainable goals. Rather Sonya Haskins inspires the reader through her candidness to seek out the best approach to homeschooling for the individual family. Her wit and wisdom as a homeschooling veteran shines through – as does her Christianity. She does not force any hidden agenda of a particular method or schedule but alleviates the stress of perfection that so many of us homeschoolers feel. She addresses the issues of close family, friends, church members, neighbors, and public school people that may question a homeschoolers approach and method or cause us to doubt our ability and purpose. Her in encouragement is that we our children are individuals they may not be top scholars in home school, but this would be the same in the public school setting as well - - children are individuals with individual talents and learning styles. This is a treasure! I am so thankful to have been able to read it – it puts into print the thoughts homeschoolers think but would never speak out loud for fear of being labeled a failure at our jobs. Thank you Sonya Haskins !
Thank you Bethany House for providing this book review.
I wish I had this book in hand my first year of homeschooling instead of some that I did. This is a surprising inspiration to the homeschooling family. It is not packed with rigid home school ideals, schedules, or unattainable goals. Rather Sonya Haskins inspires the reader through her candidness to seek out the best approach to homeschooling for the individual family. Her wit and wisdom as a homeschooling veteran shines through – as does her Christianity. She does not force any hidden agenda of a particular method or schedule but alleviates the stress of perfection that so many of us homeschoolers feel. She addresses the issues of close family, friends, church members, neighbors, and public school people that may question a homeschoolers approach and method or cause us to doubt our ability and purpose. Her in encouragement is that we our children are individuals they may not be top scholars in home school, but this would be the same in the public school setting as well - - children are individuals with individual talents and learning styles. This is a treasure! I am so thankful to have been able to read it – it puts into print the thoughts homeschoolers think but would never speak out loud for fear of being labeled a failure at our jobs. Thank you Sonya Haskins !
Thank you Bethany House for providing this book review.
March 25, 2010
'Homeschooling for the Rest of Us' by Sonya Haskins provides down-to-earth, doable advice for parents considering or currently providing homeschooling. Haskins works hard to disrupt the illusion that you need to be a perfect teacher, parent, community volunteer, and general saint to home school. She reassures the reader that it is okay to have a messy house at times or to feel stressed out; no one is perfect! Sonya provides several suggestions to try in difficult situations, potential routines and even provides some possible answers you can give when/if questioned about your decision to home school. My biggest criticism is that she writes the book from view point of a staunch Christian homeschooler. Being Christian is not a problem and neither is being a homeschooler, however after reading the book I felt like one of the main reasons to home school was to provide my child with a strong, directed Christian background. I think the general information and suggestions in this book are applicable to a much wider audience than just those wanting to provide a strong Christian background. I would have preferred the book to have had a little less emphasis on religion since I am concerned non-religious homeschoolers may shy away from the book, and that would be a shame since it contains a plethora of wonderful information.
March 10, 2010
I've read quite a few books on homeschooling, and I've seen even more at my local book store and public library, so I was surprised to find that this little volume by Sonya Haskins, was, well, little. At only 172 pages, it's less than half the size of most homeschool books I've seen out there. Personally, I thought this was extremely appropriate! I wouldn't respect a book with a title like Homeschooling for the Rest of Us quite as much if it were three inches thick and took 2 months to read through. Despite its compact size, Homeschooling for the Rest of Us is jam packed with helpful hints, poignant wisdom, and practical ideas to help the real-life family get started and stay on track while traversing the many stresses and joys of the homeschool lifestyle. It covers such topics as routines and schedules, dealing with relatives, homeschooling on a budget, and living in a (very) messy house. It's the perfect book to read after all those other homeschool doctrine and strategy tomes to refocus, unwind, and balance all that knowledge with a healthy dose of wisdom.
February 3, 2010
I received a free copy of this through Goodreads First Reads.
As a homeschooler I have to admit I have read many diffferent homeschooling genre books. This book was enjoyable in that it dealt with the non-perfect homeschoolers. You know, those whose children are not the perfect academic wonders who excel in all they do, while their smiling perfect parents beam at them from their perfect, neat home.
This book talks about all kinds of homeschoolers, and how life is not "perfect" but how that is okay. If you are homeschooling one child, or 10 children, young children or teens, and no matter your lifestyle or financial status, there is probably something in this book that will appeal to you. The author does take a Christian perspective to many items in the book though, so non-Christian families may be put off by that, but all in all the book was quite enjoyable.
As a homeschooler I have to admit I have read many diffferent homeschooling genre books. This book was enjoyable in that it dealt with the non-perfect homeschoolers. You know, those whose children are not the perfect academic wonders who excel in all they do, while their smiling perfect parents beam at them from their perfect, neat home.
This book talks about all kinds of homeschoolers, and how life is not "perfect" but how that is okay. If you are homeschooling one child, or 10 children, young children or teens, and no matter your lifestyle or financial status, there is probably something in this book that will appeal to you. The author does take a Christian perspective to many items in the book though, so non-Christian families may be put off by that, but all in all the book was quite enjoyable.
May 10, 2010
Whether you’ve been homeschooling for years or have just started – you’ll find something you can use in this book. Sonya breaks down the many challenges that homeschool parents face, and offers ideas and solutions. In the sidebar of many pages, there is also commentary from various homeschool parents sharing their ideas, struggles and tips. Sonya tackles everything from socialization, homeschooling on a budget, routines, schedules, dealing with relatives, special needs children, how to downsize and more. Sonya is a homeschooling consultant and a mom of five children, so she really knows her subject matter. This book is informative, easy to read and a great resource for all homeschooling families.
She also has a website www.thehomeschooladvocate.com where you can read more about her family.
May 24, 2016
This was a great resource for those considering homeschooling or just starting out. It encouraged homeschool parents to embrace their individuality while maintaining a homeschool.
I gave it three stars because some chapters were very long and detailed while others were only 4-6 pages, and those short chapters were often the ones I would have liked more content in (dealing with relatives). The chapters seemed a little unbalanced.
The section I enjoyed best included possible responses to common questions about your homeschool. The author provided witty, truthful, and sometimes curt answers to the often uniformed (and even out-of-line) questions that are asks by friends and strangers alike. This section, and others, gave shape to the thoughts I have had and gave me the confidence to defend my family's choice of education.
I gave it three stars because some chapters were very long and detailed while others were only 4-6 pages, and those short chapters were often the ones I would have liked more content in (dealing with relatives). The chapters seemed a little unbalanced.
The section I enjoyed best included possible responses to common questions about your homeschool. The author provided witty, truthful, and sometimes curt answers to the often uniformed (and even out-of-line) questions that are asks by friends and strangers alike. This section, and others, gave shape to the thoughts I have had and gave me the confidence to defend my family's choice of education.
July 7, 2011
Whether new to homeschooling or been there, doing that, this is a short book with lots of good information. As a new homeschooler, it would be good to read cover to cover, but for those who have been doing it at least a few years can get much out of it reading only the sections that pertain to your current situation, which is what I did.
Her point of view is very open. She does not cater to any specific homeschooling style, but includes them throughout. She also covers a wide
range of topics from how to get started to how to homeschool teens and everything in between.
I recommend this book to anyone thinking about homeschooling, getting started with homeschooling and even those who have for years and could use some reminders and new tips.
Her point of view is very open. She does not cater to any specific homeschooling style, but includes them throughout. She also covers a wide
range of topics from how to get started to how to homeschool teens and everything in between.
I recommend this book to anyone thinking about homeschooling, getting started with homeschooling and even those who have for years and could use some reminders and new tips.
March 31, 2010
This book might be little, but it is a plethora and wealth of interesting information. In the case of someone like myself considering homeschooling, but still unsure this book is fabulous. Even if you already know you plan to homeschool or you are currently homeschooling this little book will have plenty of information to help you along the way. From realistic routines to messy homes and living with a budget Sonya Haskins, author, homeschooling mother extraordinaire provides pages upon pages of tips and advice. I strongly suggest this book for anyone involved in homeschooling. It's great!
May 31, 2010
I finished reading this book the other day and I found it to be a pretty good book for the beginning Christian home school family. There is no certain method you "must" follow, which I like because we are more eclectic in our homeschooling style. I feel this book would be a handy book to use while considering home schooling or when you are starting out.
We have been home schooling for over 9 years and I did find a little that I gleaned. However I find that it would best be used for a newbie.
I recommend buying this book if you are considering homeschooling, are starting out, or are in the middle and need some new ideas!
We have been home schooling for over 9 years and I did find a little that I gleaned. However I find that it would best be used for a newbie.
I recommend buying this book if you are considering homeschooling, are starting out, or are in the middle and need some new ideas!
December 19, 2014
If you're a secular homeschooler the comments about Christianity might be off putting but they are rather mild. That wasn't in the book description so I was surprised. I'm a Christian so it didn't bother me, but it was more distracting than helpful I think. Writer's prerogative, though, of course.
I thought this was a really good 'jump into homeschool' book and would recommend it for anyone considering taking the plunge. I shared a few things out of it with my husband and made notes for later. Interesting because it gives more of an outline, examples of schedules, different ways of doing things that you might not know if you're just starting out. Def. recommend to a newbie.
I thought this was a really good 'jump into homeschool' book and would recommend it for anyone considering taking the plunge. I shared a few things out of it with my husband and made notes for later. Interesting because it gives more of an outline, examples of schedules, different ways of doing things that you might not know if you're just starting out. Def. recommend to a newbie.
January 3, 2011
This is a great book whether you're a seasoned a homeschooler or brand new to the concept! It's an easy read full of good encouragement and wise suggestions. I particularly like the way the author blasts perfectionism and false-pressure in homeschooling. It was the perfect read for me during our Christmas break!
January 3, 2015
I gave this book 4 stars because it was not the best book on homeschooling I have read, but I'm glad I read it. It is a simple (not necessarily enjoyable) read that helps a new homeschooler who may feel overwhelmed, to feel like it is possible to do. Just being able to read it in a simplified form, laid out in layman's terms is very helpful.
September 5, 2013
This book was okay. My son has ADHD, and the author's advice (in the chapter about homeschooling with special needs) to "teach your child to sit still" lost me a little. If I could do that, I'd be a miracle worker, but thanks for the advice, Ms. Haskins. *commence olympic eye rolling*
May 9, 2015
This was a relatively quick read but full of encouragement and reminders of the heart behind homeschooling. A good book to come to when perfectionism and worries take away from the joy of teaching our kids.
Want to read
January 19, 2010entered the giveaway
April 4, 2010
Excellent book on finding your nitch in homeschooling, lots of ideas of ways to homeschool and how to encourage others that are currently homeschooling, access to her website for even more help
July 29, 2010
it was okay
February 5, 2011
I found this book to be an enjoyable read that provided valuable information. I took plenty of notes while reading this book.
August 18, 2012
Worth reading if you are considering homeschool. This book looks at it practically and provides simple and helpful insights from someone who has "been there, done that".
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