Missed Part I of How to Homeschool? Read it here!
You’ve made the commitment to homeschool, a choice that is going to reap benefits and rewards in so many areas of your life! But, now what? If you are new to homeschooling, you are most likely overwhelmed with the many curriculum options, homeschool styles, and requirements you are reading about all over the internet. And then there are your homeschool friends and their advice! So many voices and options to choose from, not to mention your own personal pressure to “get it right,” can leave you wondering if you are cut out to homeschool after all! But, you have come to the right place. We know that homeschooling looks different for every family, and we are here to help you find your homeschooling niche! If you want to know how to homeschool, keep these steps in mind and download your free guide below to get on the right track!
4 Key Steps in Learning How to Homeschool
- Find your homeschool style. Once you know what kind of homeschooling parent you want to be, you are ready to jump into discovering more about what kind of learning and curriculum to choose, and setting a homeschool schedule. You will also make wiser decisions regarding curriculum, classes, and setting a schedule because you will be aware of the kind of homeschool family you want to be.
- Understand your state laws for homeschooling. The good news is most states are completely supportive of homeschoolers. However, there are requirements regarding hours, credits, and evaluations that you may need to know about before you get started. Get to know your homeschool laws by using this state-by-state homeschool law guide!
- Know how your child learns best. Knowledge is power, and knowing your child’s learning style will enable you to choose the right curriculum to unlock their full academic potential. Studies show that when we teach children using their primary learning style, or “speak their learning language,” they are better able to understand ideas, make memories, and master concepts. And this translates to engaged learners who are less likely to get frustrated and shut down. Finding your child’s learning style is step 3 in homeschooling well! Take this comprehensive Learning Style Assessment and receive an ebook with over 90 pages of tips, tools, and insights to help you better understand how your homeschooler learns.
- Find a support network. No homeschooler is an island, at least you shouldn’t be if you want to homeschool well and meet your children’s needs! Finding a support network is critical in getting started with homeschooling. From formal co-op groups to an informal group of homeschooling friends, homeschool groups may look very different, but serve the same purpose: homeschool support and socialization. If you want full support with choosing curriculum, classes, and accreditation, you may be looking for the assistance of an accredited homeschool partner. If you want something more simple to do it on your own, create a network of homeschool families who want to participate in field trips, at YMCA classes, impromptu nature outings, and science lessons. Once you’ve established a network, allow the students to drive some of the planned events like creating a book club around their favorite books, choosing art and theater outings, or visiting local museums based on their mutual interests. The sky is the limit when it comes to interacting with other homeschoolers because you have the time and the flexibility in your day to make it work for you.
Want more details? Find the rest of our Getting Started tips by downloading our New to Homeschooling step-by-step e-book!
If you are still feeling overwhelmed, or want an expert partner to travel the homeschooling road with, give us a call at 800-863-1474. Our accredited, supportive programs have been meeting the needs of homeschoolers for over 30 years, and we would love to help you!
Original Post Aug 24, 2016, Updated Nov 19, 2019.
