Beechick Basics
Dr. Ruth Beechick is a skilled teacher and curriculum developer who happens to think that home is the best place to learn and that parents don't give themselves enough credit for being the best teachers! She has written a series of books which help parents become familiar with the "language" of teaching, build self-confidence, learn to rely less heavily on "the book" and teach their children in a more natural way. If this sounds like a tall order, Dr. Beechick has certainly succeeded and then some. New material by and for homeschoolers is introduced each year that takes advantage of Dr. Beechick's insight. No matter what method, or combination of methods you decide to use in your homeschool, you'll be blessed by her guidance and encouragement!
Books by Dr. Beechick
A Home Start In Reading
Includes when to start reading, how to begin and step-by-step instructions through fluency.
A Strong Start in Language
This book starts by pointing out that YOU are an effective language teacher. Think how much your child has already learned! Emphasizes the natural way of learning language including guidelines for all language components at each level.
An Easy Start in Arithmetic
Here we learn the different attitudes we need to be aware of when we teach math, the different ways we "see" math, what we can do in the early years, real math and teaching suggestions at each level.
You Can Teach Your Child Successfully
Dr. Beechick's encouragement is outstanding: "You parents naturally know how to relate to each of your children and to help them learn. Your biggest problem is that so many of you are afraid that teachers or society or somebody out there will frown on your way of teaching.... It is the child you are teaching, not the book." What a wealth of useful information! From Reading, Writing and Arithmetic to History and Social Studies, Science, Music, Art and Bible, Dr. Beechick includes lessons, spelling lists, math charts, mechanics and grade-level guidelines - all in a common-sense, easy-to-understand style.
Dr. Beechick's Homeschool Answer Book
Edited by Debbie Strayer, this is a compilation of questions Dr. Beechick has answered over the years and her responses. The topics range from a discussion of the various homeschool methods to selecting curriculum through each of the subject areas and on to high school, family life, and special education. Full of useful tips. You'll find Dr. Beechick's calm voice of reason very reassuring!
You'll find a complete list of books by Dr. Beechick including sample pages at the publisher's site.
Further Reading
- BasicallyBeechick Yahoo Group
"Ruth Beechick Style Homeschooling is an Eclectic approach which focuses on natural learning through Real Books and Real Life." Helpful and friendly e-mail group sharing information and tips on implementing Dr. Beechick's ideas.