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Step 1
Understand the local laws in your area for home schooling. These guidelines will vary, so be sure you understand what the governing authority expects from you. You must be willing to follow the rules they have set.
Your area may require test scores, records of progress and samples of you child's work. Label and file this paperwork. Keeping this paperwork is still a good idea even if the powers that be do not require it. This may be helpful as your child starts getting ready for college. -
Step 2
Decide if you want to use an established curriculum or if you want to create your own. Research different types of curricula available to you. Remember you can mix and match to meet your family's specific needs. Curriculum can be adapted to fit your needs.
This research can be done at the library, on-line, and bookstores may carry home schooling curriculum. Tailor what you are teaching your gifted child to their level, skill set and interests as well as the local laws. -
Step 3
Get involved with home schooling groups. Members are a wealth of information. They can help provide socialization for your child, be available for field trips and share supplies.
Check your local library and on-line for groups in your area. Your local schools or your state's Department of Education may have information on groups near you. Contact local churches for information, even if you are using a secular curriculum. -
Step 4
Don't waste your money on home schooling supplies. Share home schooling items. Create a material and book exchange with your local home schooling group. There are many free resources on-line that you can take advantage of.
Your local library can be a vast source of free educational materials. Remember that friend or neighbor who is a teacher in a traditional school: she may have materials that the school no longer uses. Everyday items, found in your kitchen, garage and shed, can be used for experiments and measuring. -
Step 5
Take advantage of "local experts." Be creative. A neighbor with a beautiful garden might be kind enough to answer questions about gardening. A local nurse might be a great source of information on biology. The fire station would probably be willing to give you a tour. There are many people all with interesting information to share.
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Step 6
Use everyday experiences as opportunities to learn. Cooking is a great way to learn a bit of chemistry and fractions. Have your child order the meal when eating out--public speaking experience for the younger students. Older home schoolers can practice percentages by figuring out the amount of tip to leave. Be creative.
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Step 7
Don't forget about socialization. Play groups and home schooling groups are excellent ways to make sure your child is developing socially. Little league or gymnastics can be used as socialization as well as teach physical education. YMCAs and the like that can provide information on activities for all children, not just those being home schooled. Volunteering is a way to socialize as well as help your child develop a sense of community and giving.
