Home Education on a Tight Budget

Are you considering homeschooling but the thought of paying for all those texts, software programs and school supplies putting a damper on your enthusiasm? How can you provide your child with a quality education if you can't afford to purchase a lot of instructive materials?

Take heart, the vast majority of homeschool families don't have well-stocked classrooms in their basements, walls lined with the Classics, or a computer for each child networked to a color laser printer. Most successful home educators have limited financial resources, but that doesn't stop their children from scoring at the top of the nation on standardized tests or walking off with first place in Spelling and Geography Bee's.

How are these parents able to achieve such impressive results without a large financial investment? What do they know that you don't?

Thrifty Ways to Make it Happen

They know that for the price of a Public Library card their child will have access to a greater variety of learning texts than are available to Public Schools. Many libraries have youth reading programs for youngsters, too. And don't forget their annual used-book sale.

They know that Charter Schools have sprung up across the nation and these schools are often willing to provide homeschoolers with specialized texts, computers-on-loan and allow children to audit certain classes (like Biology) in return for registration in their facility so they can receive funding. But they have different requirements that can range from total curriculum adherence to no commitment at all so double-check before you sign up.

They know that the Internet is rich with free educational offerings, beginning with the preschool years, all the way to college-prep and beyond. Check out www.wannalearn.com for free workbooks, lesson plans, and even guided courses in everything from Keyboarding to Business Management.

They know that all across the nation, groups of homeschooling families, just like yours have pooled their resources in order to provide their children with not only educational materials, but chances to participate in group activities. History takes on a new and exciting outlook when a dozen homeschool families participate in a day-trip to the museum and the kids share in the learning experience.

They know that mathematical concepts can be learned in the early years by employing small household items; marbles, matchsticks, M&M's.

They know that the entire world is a science project. From growing herbs on the windowsill to growing salt crystals in the kitchen, scientific processes can be taught and observed.

The whole idea behind home education is to teach your child without the societal pressures of the public school system. You don't have to try and create an expensive classroom in your home. You can start on a shoestring and add to your resources as you go. Don't let a tight budget keep you from reaping the rewards of schooling your child at home.