What I Learned Growing Up Homeschooled (And What I Missed)
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In this solo episode of the Ex-Homeschoolers Club, I, Jacob Gooden, turn the mic on myself to share my full homeschooling journey. From starting in second grade to navigating private Christian homeschool co-ops in Southern California, I unpack the curriculum choices, the socialization opportunities, the challenges, and the lessons I carried into college and adulthood. I reflect on the strengths and weaknesses of Christian-based education, the role of extracurriculars like swing dance and theater, and how homeschooling shaped my worldview, work ethic, and career. This is a candid look at my personal story and what I’ve learned about education, growth, and identity along the way.
Key Takeaways:
Insights into different types of homeschooling: private, charter, and unschooling.
Curriculum that worked (Math-U-See, Story of the World) and what fell short (Spanish with Rosetta Stone).
The role of co-ops, church groups, and extracurriculars in building socialization skills.
How Christian-based curriculum shaped my early worldview—and where it left gaps.
Transitioning from homeschool to college: challenges, growth, and learning to adapt.
Resources Mentioned:
Math-U-See (math curriculum)
Story of the World (history curriculum)
Exploring Creation (science curriculum)
Rod & Staff English
Rosetta Stone (language learning)
CHEA (Christian Home Educators Association)
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