The Pros of Eclectic Homeschooling
Flexibility: Children’s interests evolve and change and sometimes at a staggering rate. Eclectic homeschooling gives parents the flexibility to adapt to those changes as they occur. A pre-packaged curriculum need not to be completed if it no longer suits your needs. You can change strategies and materials at any time.
Customizable: Rather than forcing a child into a one-size-fits-all approach to education, you can design your lesson plan according to your child’s unique personality and learning style. You can even design different teaching plans for different children.
Inexpensive: Picking and choosing your own resources can cost a lot less money than paying for an all-inclusive pre-packaged curriculum.
Parents help choose the course of study: In contrast to Unschooling, in which the child takes full control of their education, Eclectic Homeschooling gives parents a measure of control in deciding a course of study.
The Cons of Eclectic Homeschooling
More prep time: Designing your own, customized curriculum takes much more time and preparation than just using a set, pre-packaged curriculum.
You’re completely responsible: A fair amount of research is required when choosing what to teach and how to teach. Since the plan you’re creating is unique and customized, you’re completely responsible for its outcome.
Every child is different: Eclectic homeschooling seeks to create a course of study specially adapted to your child’s needs. As such, you need to be constantly alert and attentive to your child’s evolving interests, and be ready to change directions whenever necessary.