-by Ketika Kasetwar, Feb 2023

A new chapter began in our learning journey when we took the decision to go back to homeschooling in all aspects, including pulling out of a formal school structure. The various facets and dimensions of homeschooling have always been a part of our lives. But one day the time arrived when we had to chart our own path and journey. Especially now when I know that my daughter is Gifted. 

While following the NIOS structure, we look forward to a more relaxed and fun way of learning, which balances reading, discussion, observation and use of technology. It also gives us more leeway to delve deeper into current interests being wildlife, environmental conservation, parkour and video gaming. We have access to resources from across the world to learn and explore more. While ensuring that we have a set of documents handy, in case my daughter decides to go back to a formal school. If not, we at least get a hang of the concept of exams and the real-life scenario of having to face them in later years.

Our strategy of keeping exams and learning separate is also working well. We are not following a particular curriculum, but pick and choose from various study sets as we move forward. And when we have to give exams, we will just step aside for a few weeks to prepare and give exams. Because giving exams is a skill that comes with practice over time, especially in India.