Thank you Sophia for such a great session yesterday. It was really nice to sharr our home education journey with you and hear yours directly. I'll definitely take your suggestions on board and I feel reassured that I'm taking the right steps with my eldest and GCSE prep. I have a question: My 6 year old isn't really keen on reading and writing (since the beginning of home education really). He is making progress, although it's been very steady. ( I tried not to pressure him too much). My first 2 were very keen and early readers, I felt like he just needed a different approach. This year I want to focus more on building sentences and spelling. I think that his reading level has progressed more than his writing. He is still writing some letters the wrong way e, d, b etc) and find it challenging to spell and write sentences. I'd say we are still working on Reception/Year 1 spelling words. I'm not sure if we should still keep it steady until he feels ready? Or do I need to find a better (non traditional - maybe montessori) way to teach spelling and writing. Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

Hello everyone. I'm Mabela and home ed mum of 4. Youngest is 4 years old and oldest is 14 (started his GCSE prep). My children vary in ages and it's been a bit tricky catering to all their learning style needs. I'm looking forward to sharing and hearing from the group.

🎉 Welcome to Essentials for Home Education! I’m Sophia, UK-qualified teacher & former home-educating mum of three. This group is here to give you clarity, confidence, and resources — whether you’re just thinking about home education or already underway. How it works - Start in Thinking About Home Ed or Starting (depending on where you are) - Levels: Everyone begins at Level 1. - To reach "Level 2" (and unlock free printables, bonus videos, and our 6 Essential Skills guides for Years 1–6): - Comment on other members’ posts - Share tips, encouragement, or your own experiences - Earn 5 likes on your comments to level up Introduce yourself below: - Location - Children’s ages/grades - Thinking, starting, or in-between? - One thing you’re excited/nervous about Tip: The more you join in, the faster you open new doors and the best resources.