The number of homeschooling families in the United States continues to grow, according to the National Home Education Research Institute. Homeschooling a child takes a lot of soul searching, planning and dedication. If you are a parent who wants to homeschool your child, you should research the pros and cons of homeschooling before you make a decision. Talk to the parents of other homeschoolers about what to expect and how to overcome homeschooling obstacles, suggests You Can Homeschool.
Realistic Expectations
You should not decide to homeschool your child on a whim. Homeschooling requires the long term commitment of your time, energy and financial resources to the education of your child. Make sure that you have realistic expectations about the homeschooling process and some idea of how you will handle difficulties and setbacks should they occur. Ask yourself what your long term goals are for yourself and your family and whether a homeschooling lifestyle will work for you.
Financial Considerations
Develop a financial plan that takes into consideration the impact that homeschooling will have on your finances. Homeschooling families are responsible for providing their children with what they need to learn. Some homeschooling families spend a lot of money on prepackaged curricula, tutors and expensive supplies. Others spend very little money on homeschooling, choosing to take advantage online resources, curriculum swaps, knowledgeable family and friends, co-ops and the public library, according to You Can Homeschool. In addition to the cost of curricula and supplies, many homeschooling families sacrifice a second income when one parent stays home to teach the kids.
Legal Obligations
Before you start homeschooling your child, you need to know what the homeschooling laws are in your state. Some states have enacted legislation that mandates a high level of regulation while other states have little or no regulation, according to the Homeschool Legal Defense Association. You should make every attempt to meet your legal obligations with respect to homeschooling. Failure to follow homeschool regulations can result in negative legal consequences for your family and for the homeschooling community as a whole.
Social Support
Locate a local homeschooling support group and become a member. Although public acceptance of homeschooling in the United States continues to grow, you and your child will run into people who are critical of your decision, according to You Can Homeschool. Homeschooling support groups are a good place to build social support. Support groups present opportunities for parents and children to develop friendships, participate in group field trips and share educational resources.
Instruction
As a homeschooling parent, it is your responsibility to provide your student with instruction, according to Kid's Health. You may use a commercial curriculum or design one of your own. Homeschooling families do not have to replicate the traditional public or private school experience, although many do. Some families choose to use unit studies or pursue a classical approach, according to You Can Homeschool. Some families keep formal instruction at a minimum, providing their children with educational experiences instead.
