Book excerpt: Is your homeschool full of worksheets and never-ending tasks that are draining the enjoyment of learning from your children? Do you find yourself dreading certain subjects because they only result in tears and frustration? Or maybe your homeschooling adventure is about to begin and your looking into your options. Relaxed Homeschooling is designed to help you learn how to homeschool in a relaxed and natural way. Its step-by-step guide will teach you how to inspire learning at home through classic literature, life, and experience. It will also teach you how to recognize your child's interests and be a mentor rather than just a teacher. This book is perfect for anyone who is intrigued by, and has wanted to homeschool in a more relaxed, child-led manner, but feels like they are lacking in creativity and/or education. With over 14 years working in various areas of education and more than 7 years of homeschooling experience, Christine Owens has tested and seen the results of the methods that she shares in this book. Rooted in the philosophy of A Thomas Jefferson Education, Relaxed Homeschooling fully embraces the idea of leaving the "conveyor belt" style of education behind and illustrates how to recognize and follow the rabbit trails that spark the interests of your children. I promise that if you read this book, and complete the activities in each chapter, the educational atmosphere in your home will change for the better. You will have children begging to learn every morning, a rekindled excitement for learning, and you will be learning right along with them. Don't let your children miss out on a more enriched learning experience because you're worried about trying something new. Be the parent who is willing to take your homeschooling to the next level. Be the parent who mentors children and supports their interests. Be the parent who values true education. Be the parent who leads out and shows children that learning is fun and doesn't have to feel like a chore. The tips, tricks, and exercises that you are about to read will transform how you see your children and their education. All you have to do is keep reading. Each chapter will give you insight as you hone your mentoring skills, unlock the hidden curriculum in books, and shape your home environment. Don't hesitate to create your ideal homeschool. Take control right now! It's your home and it's your children's education. It's about time you enjoy a more relaxed homeschool experience. So what are you waiting for? Turn the page! What are parents saying: "This method has a way to reduce parental stress and encourage child-directed learning. It allows me as a parent, to be fully engaged with my child while we are both learning. I believe that it supports all learning styles, which is critical." - Jody from North Dakota "This book has taught me ways to use regular books and classics as my homeschool curriculum and feel complete. It goes well with TJEd, Charlotte Mason, unit studies, and unschooling philosophies." - Kyra F. from California"Christine's focus is on homeschooling parents, but I have found almost everything she writes about to be applicable to any parents." - Brian A. from Florida"I absolutely loved it!!! . . . I want to create a much better learning environment for my kids even though they attend public school." - Suzie M. from California