So there’s no real hard hitting guidelines as to what my kiddos NEED to learn ?
Well, they need to learn to read and new strategies to interpret what they read, and to write about what interests them.
They need to not just learn math, but to learn when to use different functions of math to make it useful.
They need to learn that there has been an historical past, far longer ago than their lives, and that there are things to learn from the mistakes and successes of the past.
They need to learn science, so they can can explain what is happening and to dream up possibilities for the future.
They need to learn some fine art skills to carry them through emotionally trying or joyous times: to learn to make pictures, sculptures, and to sing and dance.
They need to learn skills to make them physically fit and healthy.
They need to learn and behave in ways that might sound like the 10 commandments or the Boy Scout Laws. Which is more important to you? That your children be trustworthy, or memorize the names of the 50 states?
You already know in your heart what the truly important things are for a child to learn, and you probably already know that the schools aren’t very good at teaching those values.
Sit down with your spouse and your kids, each with a tablet, and quietly each write down what they feel is important to learn in the coming months. Compare notes. Star the comments that seem to be the most interesting and doable. Then go out and find some curriculum that is custom fit to your family. It is really the only “curriculum” that works.