Homeschooling is becoming an increasingly popular option for families who want more control over their child's education. Whether you're considering homeschooling for the first time or looking for tips to improve your current homeschooling setup, this guide will help you get started.
Before we get started I wanted to briefly mention that I was once a homeschool student myself (grades k-3, and 6-12th), and I am very familiar will all of the do's and the don'ts when it comes to homeschooling.
Before you start homeschooling, most importantly check your state's homeschooling laws. You need to make sure you comply with your state's homeschooling laws. These laws vary from state to state, so be sure to check what's required in your area. A lot of states require the parent to sign a Declaration of Intent, and submitted to that states Department of Education within 30 days of establishing of home study program, and by September 1 annually thereafter.
Choose a homeschooling curriculum: There are many homeschooling curriculums available, from pre-packaged programs to a do-it-yourself approach. Take some time to research different options and choose one that fits your child's learning style and your teaching style.
If you are looking for pre-package programs I can suggest looking into Connections Academy, Virtual Schools (FLVS, K12 , Accelus ,and many more) or non-accredited online programs like Time4Learning. I am not sponsored by there programs; however, I have either personally used then in my schooling (way back), or I have students who use these programs and are satisfied with the programs.
Set up a homeschooling schedule: One of the advantages of homeschooling is the flexibility it offers, but it's still important to have a schedule in place. A schedule will help you and your child stay on track and ensure that you cover all the necessary topics. Consider setting up a daily routine that includes time for lessons, activities, and breaks. The great part is that your schedule doesn't have to follow the schedule like in brick and mortar school, you can adjust and accommodate your family schedule.
Create a designated homeschooling space: Having a dedicated homeschooling space can help your child stay focused and minimize distractions. It doesn't have to be an entire room - a corner of the living room or a quiet area of the house can work well. Also, important fact to keep in mind are noises. Noises can be distracting, especially for young learners, setting up time for designated quite hours can help with this problem.
Find local homeschooling groups: Homeschooling can be "isolating," so it's important to find a community of like-minded individuals. Look for local homeschooling groups or co-ops in your area, where you can connect with other homeschooling families, share resources, and participate in group activities. OR you can find connections through extra curricular activities such as sports or music. I was a gymnast who became a competitive figure skater, I have meet a lot of people through sports. Maybe your child can do so as well.
Stay organized: Homeschooling requires a lot of organization, so find a system that works for you. This could include keeping a detailed planner, creating a filing system for paperwork, or using online tools to manage lesson plans and schedules.
Take advantage of online resources: There are many online resources available to homeschooling families, including educational websites, videos, and lesson plans. Take advantage of these resources to supplement your curriculum and enhance your child's learning experience. My favorite online supplements would have to be KhanAcademy , IXL and Youtube.
Starting homeschooling can be intimidating, but with a little research and preparation, you can create a successful homeschooling experience for your child. Remember to stay flexible, stay organized, and enjoy the journey!
If you have any questions or would like to set up Homeschooling Mentorship or tutoring, you can send me a message.
Wishing you good luck and a smooth homeschool journey.
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