What do I NEED to Homeschool?

What do you need to homeschool? The answer may surprise you! Let’s take a look at exactly what you need to homeschool! 

When you first begin homeschooling it may seem like you have purchased everything that other homeschool parents have or multiple items seen in catalogs. You will probably ask yourself, “What do I NEED to homeschool?”. The truth is you can homeschool with very little outside of regular household and school items. There are only a few things you actually NEED to homeschool.

Supplies

These books can come in the form of the curriculum (if you buy it), workbooks from the dollar tree or other stores, books to read and reference books. Libraries will offer most of the books you would need for homeschooling.

Pencils and writing supplies are must haves for homeschooling. The dollar stores typically have notepads for elementary aged students. During back to school time, you can pick up good pencils and notepads for your children at great prices.

Patience

Patience is one of those things most of us need more of. Homeschooling will test your patience. You will have good days, and bad days. You will have days when you want to pull your hair out, and days when everything falls in place. On those bad days, remember the good days. That should help you have a little bit more patience. The light is always brighter at the end of the tunnel ;)

Time

Homeschooling takes time. Lots of it. When you make the decision to homeschool, it is important to carve out time in your schedule to get school done. This can be before lunch, after lunch, in the evening, or on the weekend. When you do school isn’t nearly as important as actually having the time to complete the lessons. Keep in mind you will also need time to grade and prepare lessons.

These are just a few of the things I believe are necessary for homeschooling. Homeschooling doesn’t require a fancy curriculum, a schoolroom, or a mega craft closet. Many families homeschool for little to no cost. Homeschooling does require basic supplies, patience, and time. If you have these items, you will have the necessary ingredients for a successful homeschool.

Misty Bailey is a wife to Roger and a homeschool mom to three beautiful blessings. She resides with her family in Southern Ohio. She loves helping new homeschoolers and has a free Homeschool 101 eBook for those getting started. She shares her struggles with time management, becoming unglued and finding joy in the everyday moments on her blog Joy in the Journey.