Mike Smith:
Before you decide exactly what your homeschooling plans are for the summer, ask your children what they would like to study. Summertime is ideal for letting them explore their own interests.

Maybe your child wants to learn horseback riding, or try some Civil War re-enacting. Perhaps he’s fascinated by a particular author or composer. Maybe your daughter wants to pursue a medical career and wants a head start in biology. You may be surprised at what your child would study if she had her own way!

Once you’ve selected a subject, involve your child in the planning process. Talk about ways that he could begin researching the subject. Investigate possible field trips or museum visits. Try to accommodate your child’s preference of activities. You will get a new perspective on how he learns best.

Be sure to plan a wrap-up project, such as a portfolio, report, or scrapbook. Other fun ways for your child to document what she has learned are to give a family presentation or make a video.

If your child is not enjoying school, or is struggling with his normal school work, delight-directed study gives him the chance to experience the joy of learning again. By letting him learn about something that is important to him, you help him see that education is relevant and exciting. And when he becomes involved in the planning process, he can better understand how he learns.

In one summer, your child will gain knowledge that lasts a lifetime. And until next time, I’m Mike Smith.