We wanted to homeschool three years before we started and had many questions, some of the same questions you may have today. Deciding whether or not to homeschool is a big decision. There is a large community of homeschoolers that are able and willing to help guide you to have a successful start.
The ultimate goal for most parents is to give their kiddos the best education they can. Homeschooling is one of the many methods of educating our children and can be considered an extension of parenting.
There are many options for curriculum to fit your kiddo’s needs and family’s values, along with opportunities to outsource specific subject’s that may be difficult to teach as your child advances. You are the principal and can customize your school as the best learning environment for your child. That’s the beauty of homeschooling!
Step by Step homeschooling beginners guide:
- Know and Comply With Your State’s Homeschool Law.
- Choose Curriculum and Teaching Method.
- Create a Schedule.
- Organize and select a designated learning space.
- Connect with Others
Let’s take a closer look at the five beginner steps to start homeschooling.
1. Know and Comply With Your State’s Homeschool Law
Homeschooling is legal in all 50 states, but each state has different homeschool laws that regulate how parents can homeschool their children. Some states have very restrictive homeschooling rules, such as subject, reporting, and testing requirements, while others are more relaxed. Here is a link to help you find your state’s homeschool requirements https://hslda.org/.
HSLDA is a non-profit advocacy organization protecting homeschooling families and equipping them to provide the best educational experience for their children. You do not need to become a member of HSLDA; it is optional.
The web is also a valuable tool to find out your state’s homeschool requirements or visit the office of your local officials.
2. Choose a teaching method and curriculum.
There are many homeschooling teaching methods; you may even toggle between them as you navigate and learn what works best for your kiddo.
The seven homeschool methods:
- Unschooling.
- Charlotte Mason Home Education.
- Classical Home Education. Neo-Classical Home Education.
- School-in-a-Box |Pre-packaged | All-in-one Curriculum.
- Montessori at Home.
- Unit Study.
- Eclectic/Relaxed Home Education.
Some things to consider when you’re selecting a method and curriculum: do you want to incorporate home values, a second language, sports, or a musical instrument? Curriculums can be purchased but are unnecessary; you can create your own. If you choose to purchase a curriculum, here is a list of the top-rated curriculums, Top 10 Homeschooling Curriculums.
Note: Accredited vs. Independent curriculum more details linked here Abeka Academy.
There are many options for homeschooling. Some homeschoolers choose a hybrid approach; homeschoolers split their time between learning at home and attending a physical brick-and-mortar school location. Many homeschoolers outsource specific subjects as their child advances beyond their comfort teaching. For example, they outsource math with educators, such as Kumon Math Program.
Tips for homeschooling during the high school years:
- Be sure to fulfill state requirements for graduation; find more helpful details here at Collage Admission Requirements.
- If college is the next step for your child, start completing admission requirements for potential colleges.
- There are also ways to earn college credits during the high school years; find more details at Earn College Credits.
3. Create a Schedule
Creating a schedule is one of the pillars of having a successful school year. Scheduling schoolwork at specific times can ease stress and keep everyone accountable. Some children feel more comfortable having a routine and knowing what happens daily.
There are state requirements for the number of days and hours you must complete each school year. Each family has the freedom to create a schedule that fits their lifestyle and enables a good learning environment.
If you purchase an all-in-one curriculum, the school year is planned; there is flexibility to shift around days off to fit your families schedule. The other option is to calendar your program; some families choose to teach core subjects 3 to 4 days a week and leave the other days for field trips or outdoor leisure activities. There are many options to create a schedule that works best for your family while fulfilling the state’s requirements.
4. Organize and select a designated learning space.
Now that you have full knowledge of the state’s requirements, selected your curriculum, and have created a calendar year school schedule, the next step is to organize your materials.
5. Connect with Others
Connecting with other homeschoolers helps us build a network for sharing helpful information and building a community. Communities offer a social connection, a sense of belonging, and shared values, essentials to enjoying a fulfilling life.
There are several ways to connect with other homeschooling parents and children:
- Online Facebook groups.
- Ask at the library.
- Go to the park, indoor playground, or other local kid-friendly venues during school hours on a school day.
- Enrichment activities such as music, arts, and sports.
- Church
Connecting with other homeschoolers is beneficial for a balanced, well-rounded teaching environment.
Conclusion
Deciding whether or not to homeschool is a big decision. Homeschooling has many benefits that can enrich your family’s lifestyle while successfully educating your child. Meaningful education is best started when we have our basic questions answered. Clear answers to those questions will make decisions about education throughout your child’s life much easier.
Homeschooling offers a broad sense of freedom and autonomy. For those who embark on this wonderful journey, it’s life-changing!
Photo by Taylor Heery on Unsplash