Family Sessions & Home Study FAQs
Q: What is the home study family-based program?
A: The home study family-based program is made up of two elements: family sessions and home study curriculum. The home study program is an alternative option in lieu of attending Sunday or Monday RE classes, wherein parents can guide their child’s learning through take home curriculum.
Q: Is the home study program an option for those preparing for First Communion?
A: Yes! As a reminder, first communion preparation is a two-year process that begins in 1st grade and ends in 2nd grade. 1st graders starting their first year of preparation will receive Word of Life curriculum. While 2nd graders will receive the Renewed and Received program. Progress will be tracked through the digital component that is available with all home study curriculums.
Q: What are Family Sessions?
A: Family sessions are a faith enrichment program that involves the whole family in learning about and deepening their understanding of the Catholic faith. It aims to strengthen the faith formation of all family members through shared learning, prayer, and communal activities.
Q: Can you tell me more about the home study element of the program?
A: There is an optional home study portion of the program for those with children in 1st through 5th grade. The home study program is an alternative option in lieu of attending Sunday or Monday RE classes, wherein parents can guide their child’s learning through take home curriculum.
Q: My child is registered for the Home Study. Are we required to attend family sessions?
A: You are required to attend 4 family sessions per semester.
Q: My child is registered for Faith Formation on Sundays or Mondays. Are we required to attend family sessions?
A: You and your family are invited and encouraged to attend family sessions, but you are not required to do so. If you choose to attend any family session you will need to sign up so we can adequately prepare catering and materials. Sign-ups will be available through email as the events draw nearer.
Q: How many family sessions are offered?
A: There are a total of 10 family sessions offered during the school year. Five sessions will be offered in the fall and five in the spring.
Q: What topics are covered in family sessions?
A: This is a list of the topics covered in family sessions, along with the dates.
| Family Session Date | Faith Focus |
|---|---|
| September 12 | God the creator |
| October 10 | Rosary |
| October 24 | Confession |
| November 28 | Advent |
| December 12 | Christmas |
| January 23 | Mass Walk-Thru |
| February 13 | Lent |
| February 27 | Prayer |
| March 19 | Triduum |
| April 23 | Pentecost |
Q: How are the family sessions structured? What can we expect?
A: Family sessions will begin at 6:15 pm and end at 8:15 pm. Each session will begin with prayer and dinner. Following the meal, we will transition to the main topic of the night. Some of the sessions will involve the whole family learning together, while others will provide space for the adults and children to split up for their own learning time.
Q: Where will the family sessions be held?
A: Most family sessions will be hosted in the Saint John Paul II Youth Center. Any other locations will be clearly indicated in the email that announces sign-ups.
Q: Are the family sessions suitable for families of all ages and sizes?
A: Family sessions are designed to accommodate families of all ages and sizes. We even encourage grandparents and godparents to attend if they’d like. This option is meant to be flexible and can be adapted to the unique needs of each family.
Q: What curriculum will those who register for the home study program receive?
A: 1st graders and 3rd-5th graders will receive Word of Life Curriculum
Find out more here: Home School (wordoflifeseries.org)
2nd graders preparing for First Holy Communion will receive the Renewed and Received program
from Ascension Press
Find out more here: Renewed and Received – Ascension (ascensionpress.com)