Does your child want to help the poor? Be an astronaut? Maybe volunteer work in his area of interest could bolster your child’s education and future. Join this week’s guest, Billie Jo Youmans, and HSLDA President Mike Smith on Home School Heartbeat as they discuss “service learning.”
Mike Smith:
Homeschooling mom Billie Jo Youmans is our guest this week. Billie Jo, thanks for joining us.
Billie Jo Youmans:
Thank you for the privilege!
Mike:
Billie Jo, what is “service learning,” and why do you use that term instead of saying volunteering?
Billie Jo:
Service learning shares much with volunteering and serving in ministries, but using service learning as an educational tool requires additional planning and effort. With service learning as part of our curriculum, all of the blessings and volunteering are enjoyed; the student serves others, meets needs, and feels good about their contribution, but in addition, the student will benefit by achieving predetermined learning objectives, acquiring more core skills, and enhancing their educational portfolio. Service learning blends our parenting goals of developing Christ-like character in our children and serves to expand their educational opportunities as well.
Mike:
And how can homeschooling parents use service learning for their children?
Billie Jo:
The key to using service learning is found in our children’s hearts. Helping our children live out the passions God has placed in their hearts sets them on the path to serving Him wholeheartedly. Service learning is a great tool for helping our kids live out 1 Corinthians 10:31, to truly do all things for the glory of God.
Mike:
Thanks, Billie Jo. I’m sure this was very helpful for our listeners. Next time, we’ll talk more about service learning. And until then, I’m Mike Smith.
