How to Get Started Homeschooling
I know there are some wonderful courses and informational (for cost) resources available for first time homeschool parents, however, if you’re a “search bar” mama like me, these resources are simple to find (and FREE), if you know what you are looking for!
1. Learn about your state’s homeschooling requirements.
Starting with your state’s standards and requirements, I’ve found Homeschool Legal Defense Foundation the most comprehensive resource. Visit their site and select your state for detailed information on everything from withdrawing from public school to mandatory testing and required subjects.
[Google: HSLDA or use link above!]
2. Familiarize yourself with the “big seven” homeschool philosophies.
It’s important to think through your goals and approach to homeschooling, but there is no need to reinvent the wheel! Learning more on the seven primary philosophies of homeschooling can help you identify where your family may best fit, leading to help in selecting curriculum, setting a schedule, and managing expectations. Do you have to follow a homeschool philosophy? No! But it can definitely act as a guiding light getting started!
[Google: Seven Homeschool Philosophies]
3. Select a curriculum that fits your family’s goals.
Selecting curriculum is arguably the most difficult step, as there are so many resources and options out there! Balancing your child’s learning needs/interests along with your approach/philosophy to homeschool, head back to hslda.org for a list of tips in narrowing curriculum and utilize their recommended review website for popular curriculum.
[Google: HSLDA What to Teach]
4. Hand your children back their childhood.
While there is tons of information to digest in each of these steps, as a former school principal and educator, I can confidently share that there is also no point where you feel you have learned and understand it all... and that’s okay! Stay tuned for common fears when considering the homeschool option, and how we can address them!
The best thing you can do… take that leap of faith.
Xoxo,
Mandy
