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A book that I have read and enjoyed many times since I purchased it back in 2019 is Julie Bogart’s The Brave Learner: Finding Everyday Magic in Homeschool, Learning, and Life.
It is an inspiring and practical guide for parents who are navigating the world of home education.
Bogart, the founder of Brave Writer, draws on her extensive experience in homeschooling her five children to offer insights, strategies, and encouragement for creating a rich and engaging learning environment.
Joyful Magical Learning Experiences
The Brave Learner is structured around the idea that learning can and should be a joyful, magical experience. Bogart emphasises the importance of curiosity, creativity, and connection in education.
She advocates for a flexible and child-centered approach that allows learning to unfold naturally and enthusiastically.
There are four key concepts in this book; Enchantment in Learning, The Four Forces of Enchanctment, Homeschooling Styles and Practical Tips.
Bogart introduces the concept of “enchantment,” encouraging parents to create a learning atmosphere that is infused with wonder and excitement.
This could be as simple as changing the environment, adding a surprise element to a lesson, or incorporating playful activities.
She outlines four forces—Surprise, Mystery, Risk, and Adventure—that can help make learning more dynamic and engaging.
The book also recognises various homeschooling styles and encourages parents to find what works best for their family, emphasising that there is no one-size-fits-all approach.
Personally I loved how the author provides a wealth of practical advice, from setting up a conducive learning environment to handling the inevitable challenges of homeschooling.
This is why The Brave Learner has become an annual reader for me especially in moments of self doubt, something all Home Educating parents suffer from.
Why It’s Worth Reading
The Brave Learner stands out because of its heartfelt and encouraging tone. Bogart writes with empathy and understanding, making her advice feel both accessible and achievable.
Her focus on making learning a delightful experience rather than a chore is refreshing and can help reignite a love for learning in both parents and children.
Final Thoughts: A Refreshing Guide to Injecting Fun and Excitement into your Home Educating Days
The Brave Learner by Julie Bogart is an invaluable resource for any homeschooling parent looking to enrich their child’s educational experience.
By emphasising joy, creativity, and connection, Bogart provides a blueprint for creating a vibrant and effective home education environment.
Whether you’re new to homeschooling or looking for fresh ideas, The Brave Learner is a must-read. Let me know in the comments if you have read it and what you thought.
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