Now that you have determined that homeschooling is the way to instruct your child, get ready for the delight and the unease – the road ahead is a bit rough, but the rewards more than make up for it. Producing a stable and well-formed personality is no mean achievement.
First of all, it is imperative to check out your state laws on home schooling. Some states need an sworn statement filed with the State’s education department. There are essentially 3 categories for homeschooling laws. These are: private school laws, home schooling laws and equivalency laws. Find your state laws. You may also need to keep up a portfolio that records the child’s instructive progress. It is vital to look into the legal necessities BEFORE you start homeschooling. Some States also require a minimum educational requirement for the parent or teacher.
Next, look for a support group. If you live in a welcoming or inquiring neighborhood, well-meaning acquaintances will try to discourage you. At the very least, they may put a lot of uncomfortable questions in your mind. A support group that consists of compatible people will insulate you from the disapproval, pressures and questions of regular school-goers. Many groups arrange fun events like visits to the zoo, museum, tours to the ice cream shops et cetera. And if your children hit it off with other homeschoolers, they will be able to build long-lasting relationships that do not fade when their friends change schools. These groups provide an imperative avenue for socialization.
The next significant thing to do is to select a set of courses. Depending upon the method of homeschooling, you may choose a variety of tools that aid you in this process. The internet is also a rich resource for homeschooling. Do some research and look into the material that is existing.
Set certain ground rules. Homeschooling requires a lot of self-control and hard work. Here is a complete list of the things you will need:
1) Enthusiasm to learn
2) Hard work and effort
3) Discipline
4) Time and patience
5) Flexibility
6) Enthusiasm
Consider why you want to select homeschooling. Your motives and your reasons are central pillars on which the whole structure of your child’s instruction depends. Also, consult with your children. Ask them what they feel about homeschooling.
Select a set of courses or custom-make a curriculum that best suits your child. Record keeping is an important part of homeschooling. Look into the various methods of record keeping. Set up a schedule. Your child does not have to learn 6-7 hours a day. Allow him or her to dictate the time. Flexibility and fun are the cornerstones of homeschooling. Do not stuff too many skills into a single term or year. Prepare a skill list. Make the child learn the skills that he is ready for.
Gentle parenting is the secret to winning homeschooling. Children make great advances in learning and show more enthusiasm. They also turn out to be surprisingly well balanced and well informed when they are taught at home.