How to Begin Homeschooling

According to the U.S. Census Bureau as many as two million American children are schooled at home today, with the number growing at 15-20% per year.

The top three reasons why parents choose to homeschool their child are protection, religious instruction and academics. If you are considering to homeschool your child you may want read further to get an idea of what is both required and how to begin.

Homeschooling is legal in all fifty states. However, the law may differ in requirements from one state to another. How do you know what your state requires are though? Contact your local superintendant to see what they are. Most are just a matter of different paperwork. Some states require a letter of intent, quarterly reports and annual testing while other states require less.

While some state's requirements may be lesser than others, Math, History, Science, English, and Physical Activity are standard subjects taught throughout the United States. In addition for your school at home you may want to incorporate language, and other subjects into your curriculum.

Secondly you need to research which curriculum will work best for you and your child. Here are some things to take into consideration before purchasing a curriculum. Does the curriculum allow more independent study or does it need you as the teacher for a lot of the instruction? Is there religious influence in the curriculum? Some people want it and some do not. Is the curriculum academically challenging for your child? Lastly what is the cost?

You can view material hands on at a local home school book sale. Find the nearest home school group in your area and they will be able to let you know when the next one is. They also can give you advice on different curriculum. Home school groups are very friendly and are more than happy to help new people. It's a great idea to join up with these groups they are very valuable. There is also online groups that discuss various topics such as high school to college issues.

Thirdly, like any good teacher you need to plan out the year. It may not go the way you plan totally but it is a good idea to have a guide to help you navigate throughout the year. Keep attendance and go on field trips either ones you planned or ones that your group planned.

Most of all make sure you make it fun and give your child plenty of encouragement. It will be rewarding for you and enjoying for them. And above all don't give up! However you decide to home school your child just remember to keep it fun and interesting. And remember that nothing good is ever easy.

Sources:

http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/oii/nonpublic/statistics.html
http://www.census.gov/population/www/documentation/twps0053.html