5 Things You Need to Know About Homeschooling

1. Child-Led Learning

Homeschooling is becoming an increasingly popular alternative to conventional education, and it's a method that gives parents the opportunity to take a proactive, first hand interest in their child's learning. Parents base their decision for the preferred method of learning largely on personal choice. While some may opt for a more traditional learning method and mirror public school curriculum, others may choose a less structured approach to lesson plans. Unstructured homeschooling, also known as unschooling, is primarily child-led with learning focused on the child's natural interests. Homeschooling families may also take part in co-op classes or independent study programs. Unlike the rigid structure of a public or private school, homeschooling offers complete flexibility.

2. Legal Issues

If you're thinking of teaching your child at home, you must first consider the legal aspects of homeschooling. Although homeschooling is legal within the United States, parents must comply with the individual homeschooling laws in their state of residence. While some states simply require parents to inform the school district of their intention to homeschool, others require an overview of lesson plans and quarterly assessment reports. Join a local support group for homeschoolers to learn from experienced homeschooling families.

3. How Expensive Is Homeschooling?

The cost of homeschooling is another important factor to consider. Because you have control over your child's education, homeschooling can cost you as little or as much as you want it to cost. You can find many of the educational materials you need using free resources like the library and the Internet or by using second hand materials passed down from other homeschooling families. You can also purchase boxed curriculum sets, which can cost hundreds of dollars. Don't forget about the cost of extracurricular activities, too. Many homeschooled children receive private instruction in arts and music.

4. Real World Education

Although homeschooling has many advantages, parents are often concerned about the perceived disadvantages of homeschooling, especially those that relate to peer relationships. Are homeschooled kids socially awkward? Kids who are homeschooled participate in many of the same activities as children who attend a conventional school. Likewise, homeschooled kids are more likely to interact with a diverse group of people because they are not stuck behind a desk for six hours each day. This real world education results in children who are both academically and emotionally well rounded. Likewise, homeschooled kids are less likely to follow social "norms" learned in the classroom, such as bullying and competition; children learn to base their actions on personal and family values rather than peer pressure.

5. Overcoming Stereotypes

One thing that homeschooling families must contend with is the inevitable misunderstandings and negative stereotypes surrounding homeschooling. There are those who view homeschoolers as hippies or religious zealots; however, the average homeschooling family is as "normal" as those found in a conventional school setting. Parents who homeschool their children also must overcome their own insecurities concerning their ability to teach.