A Quiet Summer — But Big Plans for Writing Growth
Summer brings a welcome pause for many homeschool families — a chance to slow down, spend time outdoors, and rest from the busy rhythms of the school year. But even as students relax, parents often find themselves reflecting on what worked, what didn’t, and what their teens need to thrive in the coming year.
For many high school homeschoolers, writing can be one of the most daunting skills to master. Parents know that strong writing isn’t just about grammar and mechanics — it’s about thinking clearly, analyzing deeply, and expressing ideas with confidence.
One of our parents shared:
“There was a gap in our son's writing skills for college-level work. We knew Mr. O’Brien could help him mature as a writer. The Socratic method led to rich and memorable discussions, and we were most impressed with the rigor of the reading list and the time Mr. O’Brien took to know each student.”
At Core, writing isn’t an isolated activity. Students engage deeply with great texts, discuss challenging ideas with their peers, and then put those ideas into practice on paper. Instead of formulaic essays or short answers, they’re pushed to grapple with big questions, refine their arguments, and revise thoughtfully — essential skills for college and beyond.
Summer is also the perfect time to reflect intentionally on the past school year. You might start by gathering your teen and asking a few guiding questions:
What assignments or projects did you enjoy most? Why?
When did you feel most challenged — and how did you respond?
What skills do you feel more confident in now compared to last fall?
Parents can also take a moment to evaluate on their own:
Where did my teen grow the most?
Where did they seem stuck or frustrated?
Did we find the right balance of independence and support?
These simple reflections can guide your planning for the coming year, helping you choose programs that will stretch your student in the right ways and provide the guidance they need to grow.
This summer, we hope your family finds rest — and inspiration. And when you’re ready to plan for the fall, we’d love to share how Core’s rigorous, discussion-based approach can help your student grow as a writer and a thinker.
