Many parents look to homeschooling when they feel that their local public school system is inadequate. But homeschooling comes with many special and unique challenges. The ideas and insight in this article are an excellent resource to consider as you move forward with your decision to teach your children at home.
Before you plan a homeschooling curriculum, make sure that you check out your state law. Many states regulate how many hours of classroom work a child must have. Although the majority of states have a set curriculum which you can follow, in some states you may have to develop your own curriculum. Make sure that your homeschooling methods follow the laws of your district.
Don’t forget you’re dealing with kids that do better with breaks. Scheduling these breaks throughout the day will allow your child to stay interested in learning by reducing the monotony of continuous classes. Let them play or simply relax. It will be a beneficial move to everyone concerned.
Don’t limit yourself only to studying textbooks with your kids! Kids have to read everything they can get their hands on. Current events can keep things fresh and exciting for your child. It will also teach them valuable analytic skills.
Responsible parents learn about homeschooling before initiating the process, so make sure you’re studying the method before you begin teaching your child. A parent can become easily burdened by the duties of a teacher. You’ll find a great deal of knowledge is imparted through conferences and seminars. If you’re already homeschooling, it wouldn’t hurt to go to one to continue your education.
Tactile, or hands-on learning is one of the most effective and fun ways to learn. You could for instance have them take care of a plant or cook a dish from the country you are studying. If they are learning about France, they could draw the Eiffel tower. If World War II is your topic, pick foods from each county as you learn about them. When learning with all your senses, it helps the information stick.
Every state has a Homeschool Association which can guide you through the rules you’ll have to adhere to. Regulations vary from state to state; some require formal registration, while others just require certain testing procedures. Your school district should also be aware that you are homeschooling, so that everyone knows your child is not simply truant.
You need to know the homeschooling laws in your state. The online website for home schoolers, HSLDA, will provide information about the laws in your area. It is a good idea to join a homeschooling organization, as such an organization that will be able to offer you support in the event that you are investigated by your state’s Board of Education or the CPS. The information and guidance that you receive will be well worth the investment.
Since reading this article, you should realize that you can indeed teach your children at home. Follow the tips presented here, network with a homeschooling organization and create an educational curriculum that works for your child. You will feel a huge sense of satisfaction when you do so. You’ll also be satisfied knowing that your kid is learning properly.