Keeping records is useful in two ways. First, it provides you with the evidence of academic progress you may need for your state. Secondly, it gives your child a collection of mementos that he/she will get a kick out of for years to come. My daughter giggles every time she pulls out a drawing or piece of writing she did back in kindergarten. Homeschool record keeping is done best with some type of a portfolio.
Portfolios
Many homeschoolers put together a portfolio as a simple way to showcase what their child accomplished throughout the year. Here are some ideas as to what you might include:
- writing pieces
- artwork
- list of books read
- science labs
- photographs of activities
- list of field trips attended
- self-reflection
- learning goals sheet
- math worksheets
- history timelines
- tests and/or test scores
- certificates & awards
- list of curricula
Record Keeping Systems
Portfolios can be assembled in a variety of ways. One year I made a book of my daughter’s school year, but it was time consuming. Now I’m using a clear plastic bin labeled with her name and year. I toss in papers throughout the year and then weed it out in June with my daughter. What’s left is a collection of her favorite pieces and documents I think are valuable.
- 3-Ring Binders
- Portable File Box
- Clear Plastic Bins
