Leader Highlight: Jennifer
Jennifer Henn, Author, Speaker & Unite Mentor Homeschool Expert
How did you begin homeschooling and what was your reason to homeschool?
I began homeschooling because school was a bad experience for me, and I wanted to be sure my kids would have a better experience than I did. Before I started, I knew several families that homeschooled, so I knew it was possible and had access to support.
As someone that helps homeschoolers, we know that you have a lot of great advice to give! What are 3 things you would tell someone new to homeschooling?
1. If you’re bringing your children from a traditional school, give them and yourself time to adjust.
2. Since math and language are foundational for all learning, figure out how you’ll teach those first. After you’re in a flow with math and language, add other subjects of interest.
3. You have many years to accomplish what you want with your kids. Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds you sow. –Robert Louis Stevenson
You’re also great at helping with dyslexia and behavior issues, what are the benefits of homeschooling a student who struggles or needs extra help?
This is hard to answer in a small space. I don’t want to give the impression that homeschooling is always easy-peasy. However, as a parent, you are committed to your child’s success and know them well. That alone gives you the upper hand.
A home environment can relieve classroom stress that comes from the struggle to sit still or keep up and understand the teacher’s instructions.
Parents can give 1:1 instruction. They’ll know immediately if their child understands a lesson or needs further instruction.
At home, parents can evaluate progress often at home and advance at the child’s pace.
Parents need a plan for how they’ll teach, but they don’t need a formal IEP.
In your experience working with homeschool moms, is there a common question or need you come across over and over again?
I see a need for confidence and support. That’s why I love Unite. At June’s book club, I sat back and listened to the parents discuss what worked and what didn’t work for them. Even in our differences, we can learn from each other. Homeschooling isn’t a solo sport. We need each other in a healthy way. Parents need friends just as much as the kids do.
What else would you like to share with our members?
Balance. Balance the time needed for the hard stuff with fun things. Create margin in your life so you’re not stressed by too many demands. If you’re predisposed to all the fun things, work toward some disciplined areas. If you love discipline, step out and do something spontaneous.
If someone is looking for extra help, what services do you provide and how can they get in touch with you?
If someone has a question or two, they can email me, and I’m glad to answer. If they’d like extended help, I'm available for consulting sessions. Contact me for a free 30-minute call at: Jennifer@JenniferHenn.com
The other way is to attend one of my workshops at Unite or the Southeast Homeschool Expo. You can get more info about those events at www.JenniferHenn.com