Homeschool workshop, used curriculum sale to equip parents for next school year

Families interested in homeschooling often cite two challenges in starting: trying to find local resources, as well as choosing curriculum.

However, the Midwest Parent Educators (MPE) nonprofit plans to address both with two events on June 8: a free “how to homeschool” workshop, followed by a used curriculum sale.

“This is an informal setting where you can truly learn the nuts and bolts of homeschooling, a place to have questions answered with no judgement,” said Jacklynn Walters, MPE’s media director and Shawnee city councilwoman.

Walters will lead the workshop, which will be 5-6 p.m. at Journey Bible Church in Olathe. She and her husband, Justin, have homeschooled their four children since 2015.

“Homeschooling is an all-encompassing approach to learning,” Walters said, adding it didn’t have to begin or end at a specific time each day. “It’s cultivating a love of learning in all areas of life.”

Tips for prospective homeschoolers

Preparing the home and organizing a plan for homeschooling will depend on a family’s unique dynamic and space, Walters said. 

“I’ve homeschooled in a small home around our kitchen table and now have a whole room dedicated to our homeschool,” she said. “Both worked wonderfully.” 

Walters also advised first-time homeschoolers to write down their homeschool goals to determine what she calls their “why” of homeschooling. 

“You will lean back on the ‘why’ during hard days, moments of questioning, and when you feel you are inadequate,” she said. 

Instead of trying to create a specific lesson timetable such as math at 8:30 a.m. and history at 9 a.m., parents should explore a more relaxed approach to their day, Walters said. 

“I have learned that a regular rhythm is more realistic than a rigid schedule, especially if you have children of varied ages,” she said. “Ultimately, each homeschool is unique, so find what works for you and your family.” 

‘A big adjustment for all’

Both the workshop and sale include a dinner meal option, which families can order in advance for a discount. A limited number of meals will be available for purchase at the event, too. 

After the workshop, families will have the opportunity to browse tables from area parents who are selling their used curriculum. The organization estimates 55-65 sellers will attend. 

“You may end up using trial and error again in order to find the curriculum that best suits you and your family,” Walters said. “I always encourage families to persevere through curriculum for a bit as it is a big adjustment for all.” 

If a particular curriculum option doesn’t work for your family, give yourself the freedom to find something different, Walters said. 

“When it comes to curriculum, I think you have to go back to your ‘why,’” she said. “What will be your primary focus in your homeschool? Then factor in your teaching style, your children’s learning style, and lastly, know that there is no perfect curriculum.” 

Lastly, parents considering homeschool should try to find other families who have already homeschooled for several years, Walters said. 

“I want to visit with all the families interested in homeschooling, and most families I know feel the same way,” she said. “I love homeschooling and have seen the benefits in the lives of my children and our family as a whole.”