Entries by Drew M. Hodis

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Building a Homeschool Community: Networking and Support for Families

Homeschooling offers a unique and personalized educational journey for children and their families. However, this path can sometimes feel isolating without the built-in social network of traditional schools. Building a homeschool community becomes invaluable, providing not only academic resources and networking opportunities but also emotional support and social interaction. This blog post explores the importance […]

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Asking for Help

Students often encounter challenges in school that test their resolve, understanding, and patience. It’s at these crossroads that asking for help becomes not just useful but essential. Yet, many students hesitate, weighed down by fears of judgment, anxiety, or the misconception that seeking assistance is a sign of weakness. In reality, asking for help demonstrates […]

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The Importance of Art and Music in Homeschool Education

In the academically-focused world of homeschool education, the inclusion of art and music can sometimes be an afterthought. However, the integration of the arts into homeschooling is not just beneficial but essential for fostering a well-rounded and enriching learning experience. Art and music education play a pivotal role in developing creative, expressive, and innovative learners. […]

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Homeschool Physical Education

Physical education can sometimes be overlooked in homeschooling, where academics often take center stage. Yet, incorporating physical activity into the homeschool curriculum is vital for developing well-rounded, healthy, and active learners. Physical education plays a crucial role in enhancing physical health, mental well-being, and academic performance. This post explores effective strategies for integrating physical education […]

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Creating a Productive Study Environment

Achieving optimal concentration and focus is essential for successful studying, yet creating an environment that promotes these states can be challenging. Distractions are everywhere, and it’s easy to underestimate the impact of your study environment on productivity. However, with some thoughtful adjustments, you can transform your study space into a sanctuary of focus and efficiency. […]

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The Impact of Mindset on Academic Performance: Shifting from Fixed to Growth

The concept of mindset, popularized by psychologist Carol Dweck, has revolutionized the way educators, students, and parents think about learning and intelligence. At its core, mindset is about beliefs—specifically, beliefs about oneself and one’s basic qualities, such as intelligence, talents, and personality. Dweck’s research highlights two primary mindsets: fixed and growth. Understanding and nurturing the […]

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Boosting Academic Performance Through Positive Reinforcement

Students’ academic journeys are often marked by milestones of success and challenges. Just as athletes are celebrated for their victories, students too deserve recognition for their academic endeavors. This recognition can take many forms, but one of the most effective is positive-reinforcement through self-reward. Rewarding yourself is not just a pat on the back; it’s […]

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Executive Dysfunction and Academic Performance

Study habits, learning strategies, and the importance of motivation are often highlighted when discussing academic achievement. However, a critical aspect of learning that doesn’t receive enough attention is executive function and its counterpart, executive dysfunction. Executive functions are cognitive processes that allow us to plan, focus attention, remember instructions, and juggle multiple tasks effectively. When […]