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How to Homeschool: A Guide to Getting Started
More families than ever before are making the switch to homeschooling. The freedom and flexibility it provides makes homeschooling the perfect way to learn for many kids. In this guide, we’ll answer your questions about how to homeschool and help you get started.
Different states have different legal requirements for homeschooling, and exploring these should be your first step in making the transition. Once you’ve got the legalities down, you can move onto the fun part – creating the best homeschool life for your family!
1. Decide why you’re homeschooling.
Before you begin, it’s important to understand why you want to start homeschooling.
Are you looking for more freedom over your child’s education? Are you seeking out a way for your child to have the flexibility to learn at their own pace? Does your student need extra accommodations for special needs?
By asking yourself why you’d like to make the switch, you can begin to set goals for your family and narrow down your options. This decision will factor into all of the choices you make in your journey, so take some time to really think about what made you interested in homeschooling.
2. Choose a homeschool curriculum and approach.
It’s not about finding the “best overall” homeschool curriculum. Instead, focus on finding the curriculum that best meets you and your learner’s needs.
Your child might flourish using textbooks, online resources, a combination of the two, or neither! Many structured, all-in-one programs offer a free or low-cost trial, and there are many supplemental resources available online.
There are also different approaches you can take to homeschooling, like Classical, Montessori, Charlotte Mason, and more. All of the curriculum options and homeschool styles may be overwhelming at first, but by having so many choices, families are able to find what best works for them!
3. Create a homeschool schedule and space.
Homeschooling gives you plenty of freedom in schedule and space. However, many find that keeping to a schedule is helpful, especially at the beginning.
Creating a routine or homeschool schedule can help you and your student get into the groove of homeschool life. You can split up the school week and cover different subjects on different days, start as late or early as you’d like, and take as many breaks as you and your child need.
Setting up a designated learning space is key. Having a space where your child is comfortable, but knows it’s time to get to work will help keep you establish and stick to a routine.
4. Keep track of progress and records.
How you’ll record your child’s progress will depend on both your local homeschooling laws and your own preferences. Your state’s website will provide all of the information you’ll need as to what is required in your state or region.
There are many online and physical tools to assist you with recording your child’s learning. These resources can track attendance, create transcripts and report cards, and even assist with lesson plans. You can also go old-school with a three-ring binder or a planner – as with so many aspects of homeschooling, you have the freedom to choose what works best for you.
4. Get involved in the homeschooling community.
One issue many parents worry about when it comes to homeschooling is socialization. Homeschooling co-ops and groups help children socialize through field trips, talent shows, parent meetings, and even formal dances. Connecting your student with other children is important for their development, but as a homeschooling parent, it’s also helpful to communicate with other like-minded adults who understand what learning at home is really like.
Homeschool families can also socialize through programs like the Scouts, join local intramural teams, and take lessons in activities like dance, art, or music to socialize. Some public schools will even allow homeschoolers in their district to join school sports teams and clubs. Plus, high school students can not only socialize with their peers, but also earn college credit through dual-enrollment programs. There are so many avenues through which homeschoolers can mingle with their peers beyond being in the same classroom every day.
To find out more about groups and events near you, here are a few resources:
5. Find good learning resources.
What else will you need to support you on your journey? A library card is a good place to start. In addition to being a resource for books for you and your learner, many libraries host storytimes and craft events for kids.
Take some time to research zoos, museums, parks, and aquariums in your area. These are fantastic places for field trips and hands-on learning. Don’t worry if the options near you are lacking – you can always take a virtual field trip!
There are also plenty of digital resources online. For example, you can find free vocabulary lessons from Merriam Webster, printables for all subjects, book clubs for kids, and fun online math games.
6. Set a few goals for the year.
Once you’ve figured out what your state will require of you as a homeschooling family, it’s time to set some personal goals for the year. These can include milestones, field trips, projects, curriculum plans, and more.
These plans don’t have to be rigid. Keep in mind that kids (and parents!) will need sick days, and may take vacations and breaks. A good homeschool plan sets the tone for the year, while still allowing you to adapt to anything life throws at you.
You can find homeschool planners online that will help you stay organized and on track. You don’t have to plan each and every day down to the minute, but having a daily schedule in place to reach the goals you’ve set will help the year go smoothly.
How to Homeschool
One thing parents should keep in mind when navigating the transition to homeschooling is patience. Your child won’t be the only one learning as you begin homeschooling. As a parent, you will have a lot to learn as well! The freedom to figure out how to best meet you and your child’s needs is part of the beauty of homeschooling!
It’s a big transition, but there are many resources that can help you along the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out to other homeschooling families, and get involved with local or virtual groups! As for your child, this change can be a lot to get used to, but adapting to a new learning style and lifestyle is a lesson in and of itself.
We know homeschooling can be an intimidating journey, and we want to make it as stress-free as possible. Our customer service team is happy to answer any questions you may have about homeschooling with Miacademy.
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