How to Start Homeschooling

With the rising cost of private schools and the troubles that public schools are having, more and more parents are turning to homeschooling as an education option. Unfortunately, there are still many myths that prevent some parents from taking the plunge. First of all, homeschoolers are NOT always at home. If fact, many times we have to be careful not to get too busy with all the opportunities available. Second of all, with so many opportunities, our children definitely have opportunities to socialize!!! lol! Here are some steps to take if you are considering the very rewarding job of homeschooling.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• The internet
• telephone
• a local library

1. Find out the local laws about homeschooling. These vary greatly from state to state, but it is legal in ALL 50 states. A great place to start is: http://www.hslda.org/laws/default.asp

2. Check your local library for books on homeschooling. Read as many as you have time for.

3. 

   Search for local support groups. A good place to start is: http://www.hslda.org/orgs/default.asp If that does not turn up any in your area, try using Google to do a search. After you get the name of a group or two, contact the leader and ask if there is someone you can talk to about homeschooling. Most homeschoolers are more than willing to share with you their experiences and are willing to answer questions.

4. Another way to learn a lot about homeschooling is to read homeschool blogs. There are a LOT of homeschool moms/ parents that share what works and what doesn't work for them on the web. A great place get started is: http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/home.php After awhile, you will probably find some favorites that you will want to read on a regular basis.

5. 

   Research different curriculum. This can be one of the hardest parts about starting to homeschool. Use the personal contacts, books and blogs as resources. This will help you weed through the various styles and types of curriculum that is out there. Here is a place that has a lot of reviews about various curriculum: http://www.thehomeschoolmagazine.com/Homeschool_Reviews/ Spend some time on this step if you can. Ordering catalogs is another big help. Here are some good ones: http://www.christianbook.com/homeschool/927131462 and http://www.rocksolidinc.com/. Another outstanding catalog is http://www.rainbowresource.com/index.php, but beware it is over 1000 pages long which can be kinda intimidating to someone new.

6. 

   After all that research, you are ready to start homeschooling. Make sure you fill out any paper work you need to to get started. I highly advise to you join a support group or co-op so you know what is going on in your area and so you and your children can make friends with other homeschoolers.

7. 
   Trip to the zoo!

   Once you have started to homeschool, don't forget to have fun!!! Field trips and other enrichments help not only have fun, but they also teach.

Tips & Warnings

• Relax and have fun with your kids, you will both have a better experience.
• Never stop learning yourself. This sets an example and you will be a better homeschool parent.
• Find what homeschool style is best for your family, whether is be textbooks or a more relaxed method.
• Don't hesitate to stop using something that does not work for you or your child.
• Avoid burnout!!!! Start off small and add as much as you feel comfortable with. You don't have to do it all!!!
• Don't use something just because it worked for a friend. Use what works for your family.
• Don't try to "keep up with the Jones'". Just because one family you know can take their kids to 10 different activities, grow their own food and grind their own wheat, does not mean you are a failure because you can't!!! Most of us homeschoolers are NOT able to do all that!

Resources

• Homeschool Blogger
• Homeschool Legal Defense Assoc.
• Rock Solid Inc.
• Christian Book Distributors
• Rainbow Resource

[gahazeleyes]

on 3/18/2009 Great article. I was homeschooled for a while and it was great! Thank you for the info.

[apalmer]

on 3/5/2009 Great article! RRCR 5*

[Walkaboutangel]

on 12/30/2008 Homeschooling is so rewarding... don't be afraid...

Angel

[Sounique]

on 12/1/2008 Very well written. I am a homeschooler as well!

[Wasatch]

on 11/19/2008 Good info. If you can afford the time to do it well there is a great opportunity to interact more with your kids and develop yourself while keeping up with what they learn. 5*