*This post was originally published on Apr 11, 2014.
History is one of the easiest subjects to teach for free. We live in an age where information is readily available and costs nothing. All you need to know is where to get it and how to deliver it in a memorable way.
Welcome to FHD’s 3rd annual event, Homeschooling for Free and Frugal Series! Click here to begin reading all of the new Homeschooling for Free and Frugal articles. This article is by contributor, Jacinda Vandenberg.
History textbooks are a wonderful addition to any homeschool and well worth the price tag, but don’t believe for a minute that they are critical to a good education. Consider the following sources through which you can have access to the same information.
The Library. There’s a saying that goes, “All you need to homeschool is love and a library card.” Libraries are a homeschooling goldmine where you can access virtually any book, video, or audio on any given subject. Here’s a great article from Simple Homeschool on how to make the most of this public resource.
The Internet. When used properly, the Internet can be very helpful for homeschoolers. Researching information online is quick, easy, and can save many trips to the library. The downside is that the Internet contains plenty of misinformation and fictional articles which are misleading. Technology is not harmful in and of itself, but the misuse of it is. Take the time to find reliable resources for your children to ensure that the Internet works to your child’s advantage, not their detriment.
Here are a few online history-related resources which I’ve found to be reputable:
- An Old Fashioned Education
- Digital History
- Hyper History
- Smithsonian Education History & Culture
- The History Guide
- The History Place
People. Yes, people – especially older people. There are nursing homes full of men and women who are ready and willing to share their stories with anyone who will listen. If you want history to come alive for your children, let them hear it from the voice of experience.
The events of World War II will become so much more than a list of facts when they are personalized by a survivor’s retelling of that frightful era. Your children will have the opportunity to understand in a very real way that the purpose of learning history is two-fold: 1) to explore God’s providential workings in His own world and gain a better understanding of our ruin in Adam, redemption through Jesus Christ, and regeneration by His Holy Spirit, and 2) so we would be kept from error and repeating historical mistakes.
Places. Check your local travel and tourism center for a list of all the historical places which are free and open to the public. Give your children a hands-on approach to their historical education by visiting museums, landmarks, monuments, parks, memorials, and other heritage sites. Bring along a handbook if you’re navigating the area by yourself, or opt to use a tour guide.
What other free resources have you used to teach history in your home? I’d love to hear!
Latest posts by Jacinda (see all)
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- How to Teach History in Your Homeschool for Free - July 26, 2017
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