We decided to homeschool...Now what?
Have you recently decided to homeschool your child(ren) and have no idea where to start?
You are NOT alone! Homeschooling is on the rise with more parents opting to teach their children at home. Homeschooling is a big decision that comes with a lot of planning and consideration. If you are new to homeschooling, you may be wondering what to do next. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you embark on this new adventure:
homeschooling doesn't have to look like traditional school
Be flexible. Homeschooling doesn't have to look like traditional school, so don't be afraid to mix things up and do what works best for your family. Every family's needs are different. Take advantage of the time and flexibility to meet each child where they are at in their education. You do not have to:
Stay home at a desk.
Do school from 8AM - 3PM
Only do book work and lectures.
School can be done anywhere
The best part of homeschooling is that you can do it anywhere. You're not tied to a desk in a classroom or even to your home. You can learn while you travel. Here are some tips for how to make homeschooling work when you want to go anywhere and learn too!
Choose a place to do school. This can be a coffee shop, library, park, in your yard, hotel room, RV, rental house, or anywhere. The world is your oyster!
Traveling can be a great way to supplement your child's education. Allowing your children to experience the world is a great way to supplement your child's education. Visit landmarks, museums, businesses, parks, try some outdoor activities, and more. These are great ways to build field trips into your learning!
If you need internet, be sure the place you are going has internet service available.
Pack all the supplies (books, writing utensils, notebooks, laptop, iPad, art supplies, etc.) you'll need for school in one bag so you don't have to lug around a bunch of different bags when you're exploring your destination.
Plan ahead to ensure you have everything you will need for each day of school and a general idea of what you would like to complete each day.
Remember to be flexible!
Have fun! Homeschooling should be an enjoyable experience for both you and your child.
what kind of schedule do we need?
Homeschooling is a great way to customize your child's education and create a unique learning experience tailored to their individual needs. But with so many different homeschooling methods and schedules available, it can be hard to know where to start.
Daily Schedules: Some families choose to follow a more traditional school schedule, with set hours or assignments for each subject. Other families prefer a more flexible approach, fitting in lessons around other activities and family life.
Calendar Year: Many families choose to follow the traditional school year where they start in the fall (August- September) and end in the late spring/early summer (May - June). Other families like to adhere to a Year-Round Schedule. This type of schedule allows for more frequent breaks throughout the year, which can be helpful for preventing burnout and keeping kids engaged in their learning. This also allows families to travel during off peak travel seasons. This may benefit their families by having less crowds, cheaper travel expenses and stays.
Create a routine: It is important to have a routine and try to stick to it. This will help your child know what to expect each day and help you stay on track. This doesn't mean you have to be strict and do Math from 9:00AM - 9:30AM and then Reading from 9:30-10:00AM. This just means you be sure to complete certain subjects each day. It doesn't matter when you start or end, just that you can complete the task.
Whichever type of schedule you choose, the important thing is to find what works for you and your family. There is no one “right” way to homeschool, so don’t be afraid to experiment until you find what works best for you.
get involved in your community
There are many ways to get involved in your community. Here are some key ways to get started.
You can start by researching the different types of homeschooling, and finding the one that best fits your family. Then look into local homeschooling groups that may use that method of teaching and see if there your family can join them.
Once you have found a method and community that works for you, there are many ways to get involved and make the most of your homeschooling experience. You can join local and online support groups, find or start co-ops, and participate in extracurricular activities. There are also many opportunities to connect with other families who homeschool, and create lasting friendships. Whatever route you choose, getting involved in homeschooling can be a rewarding experience for both you and your family.
In closing...
You have embarked on a new and exciting adventure. Remember you are not alone and everyone has been in your similar shoes. Your mind is racing with questions, your nervous, there is all the what if's, tons of excitement, and so many other emotions and thoughts running through your body. However, hear me when I say this. Are you ready?
You are the one that God chose to lead your child.
You are the one that God have given to love your child.
You are the one that God has entrusted to teach your child.
You are the one that God will equip to walk this path with your child.
God has called you to this mission and He will not leave you or abandon you. When you are worried, doubts are creeping in, and Satan is trying to get the best of you, just remember God has a plan and He is working in you and your child.
May you and your family be blessed in this journey and enjoy everything God has planned for you!