Choosing Curriculum? You Should Include Your Children in the Process

This post is written in partnership with Notgrass Company.  All thoughts are my own.

We are headed into our 8th official homeschool year. I can't believe how much time has passed since starting on the journey.  I've learned a lot since choosing to become a homeschool mom when it comes to teaching and learning alongside my daughters.  One thing that has always stood out for me is that they NEED to be a part of the planning process. I know homeschool moms get giddy about the new books and materials, but it is really important for our children to get just as giddy.  This is the reason why I insist that my girls share their opinions regularly about the resources that we are using in our homeschool. 

As we head into the 8th year, I've been reflecting on which materials we will continue to use and which ones will be shelved. Some of our favorites are Notgrass Company Uncle Sam and You and Fix It Grammar. When it comes to history especially since it is my weakest subject, I know that using a curriculum as a guide is a necessity.  Earlier today, I interviewed my daughters about Uncle Sam and You to see if they were on the same track as I am regarding using the program, and I am glad to say that they are. Without previous conversation, my oldest shared that she enjoyed the Uncle Sam and You because it ensures that she learns about things that she might otherwise miss out on learning.

Watch the full, short video here- My Daughters Reflecting About Uncle Sam and You: 

Three Reasons I Include My Daughters in the Homeschool Planning Process

• Including my daughters in the process helps me to be more informed about their needs.  They are able to explain to me what is and what isn't working, and even if they aren't able to fully articulate their concerns, we are able to have a discussion until we reach some understanding. These conversations also help them to own their education and empower them to be independent learners.  
• I am less likely to waste money. When my daughters use their voices to share with me their favorite ways to learn something then I am able to allocate my homeschooling funds to resources that meet their needs. If I purchase products that only suit my learning or teaching style, then I miss out on using the funds on the people who matter the most--my students, my daughters. 
• It makes learning more exciting. When they are excited about what they are learning, it shows up in our daily lives. They are eager to share with their dad about their day instead of responding to the evening questioning, "What did you do today?" with the sad word, "Nothing."  I know that when they are placed in the position to learn something new about something that has piqued their interest with curriculum or resources that are engaging, they will freely share all about their day without being prompted. 

Do you include your children in the curriculum selection process? Why or why not? Please share your thoughts in the comment section.