The decision to home school is a personal and often difficult one for parents. Pulling your child out of public school, especially mid-year, may be difficult on the child. Transitioning from public school to homeschooling involves several different aspects of planning to make the process as smooth as possible. Each state sets its own standards for education, including homeschooling, so you will need to find out what restrictions or requirements are necessary to complete the transition to homeschooling.
Step 1
Contact your state's Department of Education to determine the requirements for homeschooling, which may include forms, records, reports and formal testing. Websites such as the Home School Legal Defense Association also provide information on a state-by-state basis. Fulfill all of the necessary requirements to begin homeschooling.
Step 2
Contact the public school's administrative department to notify them of your decision to withdraw your child from the school system. Provide the school with any necessary documents as mandated by your state's homeschooling laws.
Step 3
Set up a homeschooling area in your home where the instruction will take place. Gather all of the necessary school supplies, in addition to schedules, calendars and organizers for your homeschooling materials.
Step 4
Purchase a curriculum or develop your own lesson plans. Search for free homeschooling materials online or swap with other local homeschooling families.
Step 5
Join a local homeschooling group for support and socialization for your children. Ask the other members for advice on homeschooling issues you face.
Step 6
Write a schedule for your homeschooling time. Ensure that your schedule meets the state's requirements for the amount of time spent on homeschooling. Include a balance of activities to keep your child engaged in learning.
Step 7
Schedule opportunities for your child to socialize with others. Plan field trips with other homeschooling families or sign him up for sports and other activities.
Step 8
Talk to your child about the transition from the public school to homeschooling. Address her concerns or questions about the new schooling method without disregarding her feelings.
Step 9
Contact parents of your child's friends in public school so you can let them know about the transition. Maintain contact with these families so your child does not lose his friends because of the decision to home school.
Things You'll Need
- Homeschooling materials
