Training Arrows
Contributor
An eclectic group of homeschooling families have recently formed a union in Madison County. The families meet weekly for social events, including free time at playgrounds and field trips. The group also serves as a source of encouragement, information and ideas for parents and guardians. The name of the group, “Training Arrows,” was derived from Bible verses, Psalm 127:4-5 and Proverbs 22:6. One of the goals of the group is to support one another through unstructured activities that allow each person to discover and refine their place in the world. Even though each family utilizes various methods of education, such as classical, Charlotte Mason, unschooling and fun schooling, they share the broad goal of providing the best learning environment for their children.
Activities enjoyed by Training Arrows have included a photography club, organ dissections, crafting, holiday parties, a Nailed It! competition, a visit to a model train village and ongoing community service projects. The growing collection of more than 10 active families has traveled together to the Gulf Marine Lab, a strawberry farm and WAFT 101.1 radio station. Local highlights include an informative tour of the Treasures of Madison County Museum and a fun visit with EMS providers. Upcoming events include a visit to Sweet Pete’s candy factory in Jacksonville, First Aid and CPR certification classes and FreeCycle swaps. There is also an end-of-the-year evaluation pool party planned, where students can play until it is their turn to talk with an evaluator about their school year in a low-stress setting.
Homeschooling can be intimidating and uncertain for parents, but you are not alone. Families have different routines, interests and learning needs, so homeschooling is not a one-size-fits-all solution. The group is a good place to discuss various options and ideas as you navigate education as a way of life. Florida’s laws are relatively friendly toward homeschoolers, and if you need help determining what applies to your family concerning your rights and responsibilities, such as forms, deadlines and evaluations, reach out and ask. Contact Heather at (940) 568-0979 or Liz at (850) 973-7968 to find out how your family can join in on the fun.