Self-paced learning makes a difference

Thinking about homeschooling or already navigating its joys and challenges? You might be wondering, "How do we keep learning structured while staying flexible?" For Aria’s family, the answer has partly been self-paced learning with Start Right Workbooks. These NZ homeschool workbooks have become a key part of their routine, helping them balance systems with freedom. Let’s hear from Aria about how they’ve shaped their home education experience.

Starting homeschooling: why Aria’s family chose a flexible approach

Hi Aria. Tell me about your family and your homeschooling journey. How did you decide to start homeschooling?
So, we’ve been homeschooling for about three years now. We moved out of Auckland and realised that there weren’t really any education options nearby that matched what we were looking for. We decided it would be the perfect time to try home education and take learning into our own hands.

What role do Start Right Workbooks play in your curriculum and why did you choose them?
We chose Start Right Workbooks because they were something our kids were already familiar with from their previous school. Honestly, they seemed really engaged with them. It was an easy transition for them, and we found that these workbooks fit really well into our routine – which also includes lots of reading and outdoor time. They support self-paced learning, giving kids the freedom to progress in a way that feels natural. This is something we really value.

Here are some features that we enjoy about the Start Right Workbooks:

• Self-paced learning: Kids can work through activities at their own speed
• Wide range of subjects: From handwriting to core subjects to logic and problem-solving (which my son really enjoys), there's something for everyone
• Engaging activities: Colourful pages and clear instructions keep kids interested and motivated
• Flexible use: Perfect for homeschooling or on-the-go learning, like during long car trips
• Independent learning: The workbooks are laid out in a really user-friendly way.

It's so wonderful that you’ve fostered a love of books in your family. Tell us more about teaching your children to read.
We chose the SPELD system based on a recommendation from my daughter’s teacher. SPELD specialises in assisting individuals with specific learning disabilities. It was free, so we gave it a try and used it for about two years. SPELD really helped both of my children, and the great thing was that it didn’t just cover their reading – it also supported our “reading together for pleasure” time. It helped build confidence and made learning to read more enjoyable.

Creating balance

How do you integrate structured learning with free play and outdoor activities to cater to your children's individual learning needs in your homeschooling routine?

Our homeschooling journey is a blend of structured learning, free play, and outdoor adventures, all tailored to our children's unique needs. We dedicate two to three mornings a week to workbook exercises, adjusting as necessary, and equally value unstructured time. This balance allows our children to apply workbook concepts to real-life situations and vice versa, fostering a cohesive learning experience.

Each day is unique as we prioritise self-paced learning and our children's interests. While some planned activities may be missed, others arise spontaneously. For example, our daughter, who loves crafting, finds time for creative projects independently or with friends, even without a set schedule.

To accommodate different learning paces, we use resources like the Start Right Workbooks. These enable one child to work independently while we provide additional support to another when needed, ensuring each receives appropriate attention and making learning enjoyable.

Favourite resources

How have your kids responded to the Start Right Workbooks for handwriting? Have you seen any improvements?
The handwriting Start Right Workbooks have been of significant benefit. My youngest needed extra practice to write clearly, while my eldest actually asked for the Senior Handwriting Start Right Workbook to improve his penmanship. It’s been great seeing them grow their skills in such a practical way.

You mentioned that your older son enjoyed the Year 8 Logic and Problem Solving Start Right Workbook. 
Yes - he really loves the logic and problem-solving workbooks. They’ve helped him think critically and tackle problems more independently. We’ve found that the Start Right Workbooks encourage not just subject-specific learning but also broader skills like reasoning and critical thinking, which are great for his overall development.

Self-paced learning and other family learning priorities

You’ve mentioned that your goal is to teach your kids “how to think, not what to think.” Can you share how you put that into practice?
We focus a lot on helping them develop independent thinking skills. That means not just giving them answers but encouraging them to ask questions and explore solutions on their own. The Start Right Workbooks give them the framework to do that – while also providing enough room to experiment with their learning.

Homeschooling allows you to tailor education to each child's unique needs. How do you nurture a life-long learning mindset in your kids?
I really believe that kids are naturally driven to learn. I try to follow their interests, let them progress at their own pace and not rush them. If something feels too overwhelming, we step back and focus on their emotional well-being first. That’s key to keeping the love of learning alive.

Connection, respect, open communication

Those sound like wonderful priorities to uphold as your children develop. Could you share more about how you have established a foundation for learning that supports both their educational and personal growth?
Relationship is at the heart of everything. We focus on connection, respect, and open communication. Our values aren’t just taught – they’re lived, every day. That’s what makes the learning experience meaningful.

With this foundation of connection, we then carry that energy into other areas of learning, like science. We love being outside and observing nature, which makes the lessons feel real. This year we will be purchasing the Year 10 Science Learning Guides to help us connect what we experience with their book learning. Whether it’s a walk in the woods or diving into the physical world through their LearnWell Workbooks, the kids get excited when they see science in action.

This is the type of excitement about learning that we at LearnWell really desire to inspire in students! How do you balance progress with self-regulation in homeschooling?
It can be tricky at times. There’s always that pressure to keep up, but I focus on the process rather than the outcome. If the kids are feeling challenged or stressed, I work with them to find the right balance between learning and taking breaks. Self-paced learning gives us the freedom to progress without stress, making the journey much more enjoyable. Self-regulation is key for both me and my kids.

Thanks, Aria, it’s been wonderful hearing about the unique ways you’ve structured your homeschooling. Your approach is a great reminder that learning doesn’t have to fit into a one-size-fits-all box – it can be flexible, balanced and meaningful. Wishing you and your family continued joy and growth in your learning adventures!