A parent is a child’s first teacher guiding a little one through the first stages of life. Parents relish the role of teaching a child to take steps, to talk, to learn colors and build with blocks. Many parents enjoy the experience of teaching their children so much they want to extend the role by homeschooling their offspring rather than enrolling them in a traditional school. Learn how to homeschool your child to continue the educational journey together.
Step 1
Research your state’s laws regarding homeschooling. Each state has different requirements for parents who wish to teach children at home. You will likely need to register with the state in which you live in order to legally homeschool. There may be a minimum educational requirement that you as a teacher must meet. Contact the department of education in your particular state to obtain specific information.
Step 2
Decide on a method of homeschooling. There are many philosophies of homeschooling that you may want to research, including "unschooling," Charlotte Mason, Classical Education and Montessori. You do not have to adopt any of these methods yourself, but looking into options will help you develop your own viewpoint regarding homeschooling.
Step 3
Develop a curriculum to teach to your child. There are many “boxed” curricula on the market that include student books, parent editions and a variety of materials for those who wish to have everything planned out. Many homeschooling parents, however, prefer to create their own curriculum drawing upon many sources including books, videos, magazines and computer programs.
Step 4
Put into place a record-keeping system. You will want to include your child’s immunization record, dates you homeschool, lesson plans, a portfolio of student work and end-of-the-year test scores in this database. Some states may have specific requirements of what you need to keep on record.
Step 5
Take time to carefully plan out the school year. Start with writing down your large goals and then breaking them down into increments. You need to have a clear plan as to how the year will progress and what material will be covered. Some find it extremely helpful to use a weekly planner in which they sketch out each day’s teaching activities.
Step 6
Set up an area devoted to schooling. If possible, choose a location that can be used exclusively for homeschooling. It should be well-lighted and comfortable with an area such as a desk or table for the student to work at and a place for materials and supplies to be kept.
Tips and Warnings
- Join a local homeschooling support group that engages in activities such as field trips and social outings for you and your children.
- Be persistent in your homeschooling. It is easy to believe you have “all this time” only to find the day gone with little being accomplished. Homeschooling takes willpower and endurance from both you and your children.
Things You'll Need
- Curriculum
- Record-keeping materials
- School supplies
