Home Education, known as Home Schooling in the US, has witnessed a remarkable surge in popularity over the past few years. As parents we are seeking alternative approaches to institutional schooling, and various home education methods have emerged to cater to diverse learning styles and educational philosophies. In this blog, I am going to delve into some of the philosophies home educators use as a foundation for the customised and enriching learning experiences they try and achieve for their kids.

1. Traditional/Classical Home Education: This is one of the more structured approaches to home education. This method mirrors the curriculum commonly used in conventional schools. Subjects like mathematics, science, history, and literature are taught systematically. This method often emphasises the mastery of classical subjects such as Latin, logic, rhetoric, and literature to build critical thinking and analytical skills.
2. Charlotte Mason Method: Named after the visionary educator Charlotte Mason, this method focuses on "living books" - engaging and well-written literature that sparks curiosity and interest in students. The Charlotte Mason approach places a strong emphasis on nature study, arts, and hands-on learning experiences. It seeks to nurture not just academic knowledge but also good habits and character development in children.
3. Montessori Method: Inspired by the pioneering work of Dr. Maria Montessori, the Montessori method is child-centred and encourages independent learning. Children explore and learn at their own pace through hands-on activities with specially designed materials. This method promotes a holistic approach to education, encompassing practical life skills, sensorial experiences, language development, and more.
4. Unschooling: This is probably the one I personally fall most neatly into, but we do full from a bit of Charlotte Mason too (somewhat unintentionally, but who's judging!) Unschooling takes a radical departure from traditional education. In this child-led approach, there are often no set curricula. Instead, children are encouraged to pursue their interests and passions freely. Learning happens naturally through real-life experiences, self-directed exploration, and exposure to the world around them. Unschooling places a strong emphasis on intrinsic motivation and self-discovery.
5. Waldorf/Steiner Education: Developed by Rudolf Steiner, the Waldorf/Steiner method prioritises imagination, arts, and creativity in education. It seeks to create a nurturing and balanced learning environment by integrating academics with artistic and practical activities. This holistic approach emphasises a child's physical, emotional, and spiritual development alongside intellectual growth.
6. Unit Studies: Unit studies offer a comprehensive and integrated approach to learning. Subjects are woven together around a central theme or topic, allowing children to explore various aspects of the subject from different angles. This method fosters a deeper understanding of concepts and encourages cross-disciplinary connections.
7. Eclectic Homeschooling: Many home educating families adopt an eclectic approach, drawing from different methods and curricula to create a customised educational experience tailored to their child's unique learning needs and interests. This flexibility allows parents to adapt and evolve their home-schooling approach as their child's educational journey unfolds.
8. Online/Virtual Schools: In the digital age, online or virtual schools have gained popularity among home educating families. These schools offer structured online curricula and support, providing a balance of flexibility and academic accountability. Students can learn from the comfort of their homes while following a structured program. 

Each of these methods offers unique advantages and aligns with different educational and lifestyle philosophies. It is our role as parents, not to only have our children's 'education' in mind, we know that we hold far more diverse and important roles than a teacher but when considering our child's individual needs and learning style. Whether it's the structure of classical education, the creativity of Montessori, the freedom of unschooling, or the integrated approach of unit studies, home education empowers families to embark on an educational journey that is as unique as each child and within a lifestyle that suits the whole family.

We love this article if you want to go a little deeper into other philosophies and to identify which might work well for you and your child.