Where to Start
After the decision to homeschool was made, I spent a good share of my summer researching how to do it. My head was whirling with questions, and at times it seemed a little overwhelming.
Where do I begin? How do I make it enjoyable for each of them…and myself? What style is best? (We will talk about that later.) Is this really the best option for them? How do I get them to graduation without screwing them up completely?
So if you’re considering homeschooling but aren’t sure where to begin, this guide will hopefully help break it down into manageable pieces and set you up for a successful homeschool journey.
10 Steps to a Successful Homeschool Journey
Step 1. Research Your States Homeschool or Exempt School Laws
Every state sets its own regulations when it comes to laws that homeschool families have to follow. The best place to start is through your states Department of Education website.
The state of Nebraska is fairly lenient, but there are a few regulations, for example, registering with the state each year and keeping an hourly requirement that varies depending on the grade level of the child. The Department of Education website will most likely have a FAQ section that will help answer specific questions that you may have and provide help in filling out necessary paperwork for your state.
Step 2. Define Your Why
Homeschooling is not a one size fits all solution, so it’s important to reflect on your reasons for choosing this path. Having a clear purpose will not only guide you in making the best decisions for your family but also keep you motivated on tough days.
Step 3. Choosing a Homeschool Method
With so many different approaches to education, it can be hard to know where to start. Below is a list of 6 popular homeschooling methods and a brief description of each. I will provide more detail on each one in an upcoming post.
- Traditional: Structured learning similar to public school.
- Charlotte Mason: Short lessons focused on literature and nature.
- Montessori: Child led, hands on learning focused on independence.
- Unschooling: A relaxed, child directed approach.
- Eclectic: Mix of various methods tailored to your needs.
- Online: Online platforms delivering structured curriculum.
Step 4: Select your Curriculum
Choosing a curriculum can feel daunting because there are literally thousands of options! You’re choice will depend on the method you feel is right for your child. Some parents prefer prepackaged curriculum while others like to mix and match.
Many curriculums offer free samples or trials, so you can test them out before committing. Consider starting with something simple and making adjustments over time.
Step 5: Create a Schedule That Works for You
One of the best parts of homeschooling is the flexibility to create a schedule that works for your family’s lifestyle. Some like to keep a routine similar to that of traditional schools, while others prefer shorter lessons spread throughout the week.
Focus on quality over quantity, and don’t be afraid to make adjustments as needed.
Step 6: Set Up a Learning Space
We’ve all seen and probably pinned a few of those amazing homeschool rooms on Pinterest. While they are beautiful, they are completely unnecessary. We just don’t have enough space to dedicate an entire room to school. And neither do most of the homeschool families I know. But having a small dedicated space for school work can help your child stay focused.
A corner in the dining room, small desk in their rooms or even the kitchen table will work just fine. Stock your space with essential items like pencils and and art supplies, but keep it simple. A clutter free space encourages creativity and productivity.
Step 7: Join a Homeschool Community
Just because you are homeschooling doesn’t mean you have to do it alone. Join a local homeschool co-op, or an online or social network for support, advice, and for opportunities for your kids to make friends and get involved in the community. Facebook is a great way to connect with homeschool groups in your area.
Step 8: Plan Socialization and Activities
One very common misconception about homeschooling is that children miss out on socialization. The truth is, there are endless opportunities for homeschoolers to connect with others.
Look for extracurricular activities in your area like sports, art classes, scouting, music lessons, or group learning activities that can be done with other homeschool families.
Step 9: Start Small and Be Flexible
Homeschooling is definitely a learning curve, for both you and your child. Start with a simple routine and be prepared to make adjustments as you figure out what works best. If you have multiple kids, remember that each of them may learn differently. What works well for one may not work for the next one.
Step 10: Focus on Connection, Not Perfection
Homeschooling should be about creating an environment where your child can thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. Don’t get bogged down trying to make everyday perfect. Work at building a strong relationship with your child and fostering a love of learning in them. It will get easier with time.
Final Thoughts
Its OK to have bad days, or moments of doubt. Starting out, homeschooling can be overwhelming, but with a little planning, and a LOT of patience, it can be an incredibly rewarding journey. So relax. Breathe. You got this Homeschool Mama!
What has been your biggest challenge or success in homeschooling? Share your comments below- we’d love to hear from you!