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You have decided to homeschool your child, but where do you begin? There are several important steps you must follow before the teaching process actually begins. First, you need to obtain law information specific to your state for the following criteria:
„X Compulsory school age
„X Legal option to homeschool (it is legal in all fifty states to homeschool, but it is easier to do in some states than others because education is regulated by state and local agencies.)
„X Attendance requirements
„X Subjects required
„X Teacher qualifications (you do not need to be certified or hold a degree, but some states may require a listing of other qualifications derived from life experiences.)
„X Notice required
„X Record keeping requirements
„X Testing required.
With all these questions answered, you will be able to set up a more effective curriculum and budget for supplies. (List obtained from the Home School Legal Defense Association.)
Next, it is a good idea to read all you can get your hands on about homeschooling. Personal accounts from those who are active are quite beneficial. While performing your research, ask yourself these questions:
„X Ask yourself why: Staying focused on your goals day to day, week to week, month to month and year to year will not only help you stay on track, but it will also help assess and affirm commitment levels.
„X Ask yourself why not: Over and over again you will be faced with negativity forcing you to ask yourself, ¡§Is homeschooling really right for me and my children?¡¨ Staying firm in your beliefs is key.
„X Ask yourself if you like to teach: A good way to test yourself about this one is to take your child to a library or go online to research. Did you follow up with homework? Did it feel right to you? Did you enjoy the experience? If not, chances are you will not likely follow through.
Now, you need to establish a curriculum based upon your state¡¦s requirements, devise lesson plans and pick a place to start. There are a wealth of resources available geared toward finding the curriculum right for you and your family. Looking at this as a way of life instead of a means for education by involving the entire family is a very positive choice.
Looking for support, networking with other homeschooling families and attending a workshop now and then will not only give you a firmer grasp on things, but will give you places to turn when you feel ¡§lost.¡¨ It is very easy to feed into the negativity brought on by others, so seeking out community based groups before giving up is crucial. You will be your toughest critic, the last thing you need to hear is someone who does not think you can pull this off.
Do not forget to set up a record keeping system. Not all states require this, but it is a good organizational tool. You will be able to remain focused on what needs to be done and what has been accomplished easier. Your support group (Should you choose to belong to one or not, contacting one is still beneficial.) provide any necessary forms.
Remember not to become victim to the myths you may hear:
„X You need at least some college to homeschool successfully. Not true. You do not need to be a certified teacher or hold a degree.
„X Homeschooled children have difficulty socializing. Not true. These children generally have a good self-image and make friends with others sharing their same interests just like other children.
„X You must be certified to perform standardized testing or the child is likely to fail. Not true. You do not need to hold any special certifications to meet specific state testing requirements. Homeschooled children have been known to do better on standardized tests, according to a 1990 study by the Home School Legal Defense Association.
This is your family¡¦s and your decision, not anyone else¡¦s. Stay focused; follow these basic steps, read all you can and you will be more likely to succeed.
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