Getting Started
- How do I start?
- The very first step is declaring yourself to be a homeschooler. Aside from the internal declaration, many states require a form declaration. Check the state laws section for more information.
There are several early steps to take for homeschooling your children:
* Notify your school that your child will not be coming back. In many states this is not required, but it is a courtesy that may pay dividends later. By doing so in writing, you'll ward off any truancy inquiries.
* Find a homeschool support group. Learning from others can prevent you from repeating common mistakes, as well as getting you off to a great start
* Research curriculum options:
> Online Curriculum: We recommend the Global Student Network Virtual Curriculum.
> Packaged Curriculum:
> Christian Curriculum: ABECKA, Bob Jones,
> DIY Curriculum. For the serious and committed homeschool parent. Resources available at homeschool curriculum fairs, homeschool support groups and libraries.
> School-at-Home programs. Although these programs are not true homeschool options, these "private schools" provide some level of reassurance for parents concerned about their own ability to teach their children.
Once the decision has been made to homeschool, you don't need to feel rushed to settle every homeschooling decision at once. Most preparations for homeschooling can be made gradually and thoughtfully as you spend time learning about homeschooling choices.
Reading, talking with other homeschoolers, and attending homeschooling seminars and classes are excellent ways to find out about options and choices in homeschooling.
- Can I do this?
- It is reassuring to know that most homeschoolers asked themselves this question when they first started. Researching homeschool issues, reading books, exploring homeschool resources, and talking with other homeschoolers are the best ways to gain confidence.
There are many different educational philosophies practiced by homeschoolers. General categories include: unschooling, unit studies, school-at-home and eclectic. Even within those categories, there are many different approaches. There are, in fact, as many ways to homeschool as there are homeschoolers. When you read about an approach it is good to realize that it is only one option, and one person's or one group's opinion. Try a variety of materials and read about different approaches to find one that works for you.
- Is it legal? How do I find out the law in my state?
- Yes, homeschooling is legal in all fifty states. Laws and regulations vary from state to state, and interpretations can vary from school district to school district. We recommend that you read the laws for your state yourself, in addition to asking homeschooling organizations for information. You can find specific state laws at: www.homeschoolfacts.com or by contacting a local or regional homeschool support group.
Your local school district is probably NOT the best place to get answers. Often they don't know, and they may give you misleading information. In many areas, local officials and even state officials will not truly understand the laws relating to home education, and may therefore ask for far more information than the law requires.
- What is the procedure for taking my child out of public school?
- First, check out the homeschooling regulations of your State. Each state has different regulations pertaining mandatory attendance, and it will benefit you greatly to understand local requirements. Generally, if your child is currently enrolled in the public school system, you may withdraw them at any time