Homeschooling is a great option for many families. Education is so vital. Teach your children and have fun along the way. These ideas will give you a successful start to the homeschooling way of life!
Remember that feeling of bringing your newborn baby home from the hospital in those first days? Everything about motherhood was new, exciting, and just a bit scary. I was talking to a friend recently who is considering homeschooling. It reminded me of those kinds of feelings. She is in that stage of feeling overwhelmed and unsure, but wanting to do the best thing for her child. If you’re in that stage right now, here are 7 steps to help you begin homeschooling successfully.
Do your research
Knowledge is power! The more familiar you become with homeschooling lingo, different curriculum options, and learning styles, the more confident you will become. Don’t be afraid to ask questions in online groups, local homeschooling groups, and even Google. Many times there are seasoned homeschool moms who are more than happy to talk about their experiences.
Check your residential state to find out what is required of you to homeschool
In the United States, each state has different standards for homeschool families. It is important to find out through the state you live in, what is required of you to homeschool. Some may require testing, a portfolio review, a letter of intent, or nothing at all. Knowing the law in your state will help to put you at ease before you begin.
Choose the curriculum and resources that are best for your child
Think about how your child learns. Are they hands-on learners? Avid readers? Prefer digital resources to textbooks? You can choose a full-service curriculum online that even provides the quizzes, tests, and report cards. Or perhaps something more simple like a library card and a list of interests your child would like to learn. It can be as detailed or relaxed as you think is best in your family. If he/she is old enough, include them in the discussions about how they learn best.
Choose the teaching method that is best for you
If you don’t feel comfortable teaching certain subjects, don’t be afraid to outsource them with local co-ops, tutors, or online classes. Don’t let your concerns hold you back from homeschooling just because you don’t think of yourself as a teacher.
Create learning habits and routines
Good habits and routines can make your homeschooling days run smoother. It doesn’t have to be a strict hour-by-hour schedule. Staying flexible will help you explore rabbit trails of learning as they come up. Making learning an ordinary part of living will help children to develop a lifelong love of learning.
Prepare your homeschool supplies
It’s helpful to keep a well-stocked supply cupboard on hand. Just like school supplies for public schoolers, there are things that you’ll need frequently while homeschooling. Check through your curriculum and lesson plans for any supplies that might be unusual or need to be purchased ahead of time. Having these things ready will prevent you from delays when you’re ready to learn.
Keep records as necessary
Find a system of record-keeping that works for you before the papers and projects pile up. Whether you prefer to organize digitally or with organizing tools like folders and bins, find something that will help you to be consistent. Remember that your state may require more detailed reporting, so keep that in mind when deciding whether to save things like workbooks or other projects. There are also things you’ll want to save just for keepsakes, such as artwork.
Homeschooling is a great option for many families. Education is so vital. Teach your children and have fun along the way. These ideas will give you a successful start to the homeschooling way of life!
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