Things You'll Need:
- Internet
- Library
- Telephone
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Step 1
Perform your research. You must take the time to understand the homeschooling laws that apply to your state. Not all states look upon homeschooling in favorable terms, and laws are changing daily. It is vitally important to know the homeschool laws, as well as options that apply for your state.
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Step 2
Choose a homeschooling option. Once you determine the homeschooling laws for your state, you'll discover that there are numerous homeschooling options available. For instance, you might find that homeschooling under a private school option provides you the freedom and covering with other homeschool families that you need. However, by creating a home school that is regulated by your local public school district, your child might be eligible to participate in public school classes and events, such as sports, arts, and extracurricular activities. You should carefully consider every homeschool option before selecting the best choice for your family's needs.
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Step 3
Network with other homeschoolers. Once you have determined your option, it's important to meet with other homeschooling families. The best way to do this is by joining a local homeschooling support group. You can find local support groups online, call, and join. Not only do homeschool support groups provide encouragement for parents, but they are a great source of socialization for homeschooled children as well.
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Step 4
Notify the right people of your homeschool. The amount and type of notification varies throughout the country. One state might require a letter of intent, while another might require no notice at all. Again, by researching your state's homeschooling laws, you can determine who needs to be notified, or what type of paperwork you must submit. However, one thing is certain: once you determine whom you must contact, do so.
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Step 5
Choose your curriculum. Your curriculum choices are plenty and will depend heavily upon the type of homeschool you set up, as well as the option you choose. If you join an umbrella or satellite school, your curriculum choices might be the same as the private schools. There are numerous choices available from packaged curriculum to unit studies and unschooling. It is important to make certain that your curriculum choices are in sync with the homeschool laws for your state.
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Step 6
Determine how testing will be conducted. Not all states will require your child is tested, and this is also contingent upon the type of homeschool option you select. However, there is no excuse for not understanding whether or not you are responsible for having your child's academic progress measured and then failing to do so. When you determine your state's homeschool laws, you will also discover what type of testing is required, who must perform the testing, and what is deemed to be an acceptable measure of progress.
Comments
taskeinc said
on 8/10/2008 I have thought about HomeSchooling my children and this article helps .. I'll save this to my favorites because this is certainly an option.
WriterGig said
on 8/8/2008 Great tips, and I hear the HSLDA is really excellent!