Five things homeschoolers can do in their spare time

by Andrea Hermitt | More from this Blogger

08 Apr 2009 09:03 AM

According to US schools chief Arne Duncan, school kids need more classroom time. Fortunately for homeschoolers, learning one-on-one supplies much more quality time and so long hours aren't really necessary. In fact, most homeschoolers are done with educational instruction time by lunchtime.

This leaves a lot of spare time to play, and learn, explore. With that said, here are 10 things homeschoolers can do in their spare time.

1. Read: My kids have spent many hours under table, on sofas, in beds, and on a blanket on the lawn reading books. This is a very healthy activity for students that keeps them learning after the instruction is done.

2. Music: Children have a chance to take musical instruction much further because they have plenty of time to practice. My son spends anywhere from one to three hours a day playing the piano. Not only is it enriching for him, but the music is relaxing for me.

3. Field Trips: There are so many place to go and so many things to see out in the world. With less instruction time, students can spend alot more time exploring which in many cases is a deeper form of learning.

4. Relaxing: Today's kids are just too stressed out. We hear about pre-teens and teenagers becoming depressed and committing suicide far too often. Homeschoolers can use a good deal of their spare time de-stressing.

5. Volunteering: Let children learn about the real-world outside of the classroom by engaging them in volunteer opportunities. They will learn that there are people who need help just living from day to day, and will become much more greatful for what they have.

These are just a few of the things that homeschoolers can do in their spare time. If you are a homeschooler, please let us know about some of your extracurricular activities.

*Have a question about homeschooling? Just ask.

* Have you seen the homeschooling curriculum glossary?

Learn more about Andrea Hermitt

Andrea Hermitt is a native New Yorker currently residing in GA. She has been married for over 16 years and has two teenage children.

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