As homeschooling parents, one of the most invaluable advantages you have is the ability to tailor your child’s education to their unique needs, interests, and pace. This flexibility is a powerful tool, and one of the most impactful ways to use it is by encouraging your child to take ownership of their learning journey. 

Ownership in education means that your child is actively involved in their learning process, making decisions about what, how, and why they learn. This sense of control fosters a deeper engagement, enhances motivation, and ultimately leads to a more meaningful and successful educational experience.

Why ownership in learning matters

Research has found that when we give our children ownership of their learning, they thrive. The benefits go beyond just motivation and engagement, too:   

Increased motivation and engagement

When students have a say in their learning, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated. Ownership transforms learning from something that is done to them into something they are actively doing. This shift in mindset is crucial because it aligns learning with their personal interests and goals. When children feel that they are in control, they are more willing to invest time and effort, which naturally leads to better outcomes.

Development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills

Ownership encourages children to think critically about their education. They learn to ask questions like, “What do I need to learn?” and “How can I apply this knowledge?” This kind of thinking helps them develop problem-solving skills, as they are constantly navigating their learning journey, making decisions, and reflecting on their progress. These skills are not just important for academic success; they are essential for navigating life’s challenges and making informed decisions as adults.

Fostering independence and responsibility

When children take ownership of their education, they learn to be responsible for their progress. This responsibility fosters independence, as they understand that their efforts directly impact their outcomes. As they grow older, this sense of responsibility will translate into other areas of their lives, such as managing their time, setting goals, and taking initiative in various situations. Homeschooling provides the perfect environment to nurture these traits, as the learning environment can be adjusted to match their growing independence.

Personalised learning experience

One of the greatest benefits of ownership is that it allows for a personalised learning experience. Every child is unique, with different strengths, weaknesses, and interests. When children are involved in their education, they can tailor their learning to suit their individual needs. This personalisation not only makes learning more enjoyable but also more effective, as they are more likely to retain information that is relevant and interesting to them.

Building confidence and self-esteem

As children take control of their learning journey and see the fruits of their efforts, their confidence and self-esteem naturally increase. They begin to see themselves as capable learners who can overcome challenges and achieve their goals. This self-assurance is invaluable, as it encourages them to tackle new challenges with a positive mindset, knowing that they have the skills and abilities to succeed.

How to support your child’s ownership of their learning journey

There are many simple ways you can encourage your child to own their learning. Here’s our favourite strategies:   

Involve them in planning

Start by involving your child in the planning process. Discuss what subject areas they are interested in, what goals they would like to set, and how they want to achieve those goals. This doesn’t mean they have to make all the decisions, but giving them a voice in the process helps them feel invested. You can create a weekly or monthly plan together, allowing them to have a say in what they learn and how they approach their studies.

Encourage self-assessment

Teaching your child to assess their own progress is a key aspect of ownership. Instead of always relying on you for feedback, encourage them to reflect on their work. Ask questions like, “What did you find challenging?” or “What would you do differently next time?” This reflection helps them understand their strengths and areas for improvement, making them more aware of their learning process and outcomes.

Provide choices

Offer choices whenever possible. This could be as simple as choosing between two books to read or deciding the order in which to complete their work. By providing choices, you are giving them a sense of control and autonomy, which fosters their ownership of learning. These choices should be meaningful and appropriate to their age and maturity level, gradually increasing as they demonstrate the ability to make responsible decisions.

Encourage exploration and curiosity

Ownership thrives in an environment where curiosity is encouraged. Allow your child to explore topics that interest them, even if they fall outside the traditional curriculum. If your child shows a passion for a particular subject, provide them with resources and opportunities to delve deeper. This could include visiting museums, watching documentaries, or even embarking on projects that relate to their interests. Encouraging this kind of exploration helps them see learning as a lifelong journey, not just something that happens during school hours.

Be a guide, not a director

As a homeschooling parent, it’s important to strike a balance between guiding your child and giving them the freedom to take charge. Instead of directing every aspect of their learning, act as a mentor who provides support and guidance when needed. This might mean stepping back and allowing them to make mistakes, which are invaluable learning opportunities. Your role is to facilitate their learning, helping them find the resources they need and offering encouragement along the way.

Find a tool they can use 

Homeschooling parents have a number of learning resources available to them, but when it comes to encouraging ownership, some are better than others. Maths Pathway at Home, for example, allows kids to select the maths topic they want to learn next, while ensuring the content they select is tailored to their learning level. It also can be completed at the pace of the learner, making it flexible enough to fit the unique needs of every child.

Celebrate achievements

Finally, celebrate their achievements, no matter how small. Recognising their efforts and successes reinforces their ownership and motivates them to continue. This doesn’t have to be a grand celebration; even simple words of praise or a small reward can go a long way in boosting their confidence and reinforcing the idea that they are in control of their learning journey.

Encourage ownership, watch them grow

Encouraging your child to take ownership of their learning journey is one of the most valuable gifts you can give them as a homeschooling parent. It empowers them to be active participants in their education, fostering a love for learning that will last a lifetime. By applying the strategies above, you can help them develop the skills and mindset needed to succeed in their learning and into the future.