The Rainbow Resource Center Homeschool Blog

You’ve picked out your curriculum and you’ve unpacked your Rainbow boxes. You’ve got the fresh school supplies. You’ve cleaned off the dining room table and hung up some maps and charts. But as your start day looms closer, you panic and think, exactly how am I going to do this? There’s no one-size-fits-all, unfortunately. But there are several elements of a typical homeschool day to take into consideration as you plan your school day and school year. Your day will be filled with different types of activities!

What makes a job fulfilling versus a job where you can’t wait for the day to be over? What makes the difference for adults who like their job versus those who are going through the motions? One major factor is that you find purpose in your job. This is also called internal motivation. There are other factors, such as the location, salary, and benefits, that are also important. This is external motivation. But if you know that your work is making a difference in the world, big or small, this is often very motivating. How do we help our teens find this kind of motivation as they move toward adulthood?

The comparison game. I know I’ve played it. It’s a game that leaves you unhappy, unsure, and unclear about where the road you’re on is taking you. It’s not a fun and exciting game or one you can ever win. It doesn’t leave you feeling accomplished or satisfied, but instead it allows you to think that your best just isn’t good enough. Comparing yourself to others is already a dangerous game, but comparing your homeschool or your children’s accomplishments to others is even more precarious!

In our modern world of runaway online shopping, package safety has become a critical aspect of our daily lives! Even if you are not as concerned about package safety as the next guy, staying informed about the latest updates on deliveries headed your way can help you maximize the smiles and avoid the tears. Let's take a look at some good reasons to use USPS Informed Delivery and FedEx Delivery Manager to track your orders!

Sometimes, just getting started is the hardest part of the writing process. In college, my writing professors noted my ability to get content on the page and how this was a gift for a writer. On the other hand, the red pen was dominant on all my papers, and a few were “not worthy of a grade.” You might be wondering whether or not you should grade your homeschooler's writing assignments. In this article, we will look at some of the benefits of deciding not to grade!

The term “classical education” is one you hear frequently in home school circles. There are some well-known publishers who specialize in products following a classical education model. These products have a lot of appeal because they are structured, academically rigorous, and often, user-friendly. On the other hand, the whole approach can seem a bit intimidating and overwhelming with all that is offered. One is left wondering if you can do “a little bit” of classical education rather than embrace the whole thing. The short answer is: You can!

As homeschooling has become more popular, there are seemingly endless programs available in every color, shape, and style. You’re not alone if you feel overwhelmed by all of the choices! Fortunately, a wide array of curriculum options also means that with a little bit of effort, you can find what will be the perfect fit for your family. In this article, we will walk through 6 important factors to consider when looking for the right homeschool curriculum!

For the last 10 summers, I have been honored to work on the Rainbow Resource Summer Book Contest for young authors from ages 7 to 18. Every student who writes and illustrates a story (and sends it in) receives a hardcover copy of their book in the mail. Since it is their book, the contest rules state that parents are not allowed to help. “At all?” you might ask. And of course, any parent involved in their child’s life would want to help with the creation of their child’s book! But for this contest, this is their product, and the challenge presents a unique opportunity for your child to learn how to take ownership to make a vision come to life.

Homeschooling during middle school can be challenging but also rewarding. Kids mature at different ages, and while some might be ready for more independence in their schoolwork, others may need more time with you. This is a transition time, not only in kids’ studies but also in their physical bodies. Here are 7 things to remember as a parent as you both navigate this season!

Homeschooling parents are often accused of turning ordinary events into learning opportunities – even in the summer! Out here in Illinois where Rainbow Resource Center is located, the summer months are often hot and humid. This heat inspired me to think of some summer learning ideas to explore in your homeschool!