As more and more parents consider the remote learning opportunities available, homeschooling has become more popular in recent years. In fact, the National Center for Education Statistics reports that almost three percent of students in the 2018–19 school year were homeschooled, a 5% increase over the prior school year.
If you are a parent living in New York State, you may be looking into options to educate your child without enrolling them in traditional school. Here are some tips and questions to get you started on a successful homeschooling journey.
What is the homeschooling process in New York?
Homeschooling in New York state is a process that requires both registration and testing. Parents interested in homeschooling their children must first register with their local school district superintendent’s office. Once registered, parents are required to provide instruction that is equivalent to a recognized school program.
This includes 180 days of instruction, including courses in the arts, health, physical education, English, math and social studies. Parents must also adhere to the same hours of instruction that are required of other schools in New York State, which are eight and a half hours a day.
Additionally, parents are responsible for ensuring their child is tested every other year. New York also offers parents the opportunity to join a parent-initiated homeschooling support group, or have a school or other entity provide academic guidance.
What are the required materials for my child’s homeschool education?
The New York State Education Department outlines the materials required for home instruction to be similar to those provided in traditional school settings. Materials generally include textbooks, workbooks, and/or other instructional materials as designated to provide an equivalent educational program.
Parents should also plan to provide necessary supplies such as paper, pencils, pens and other items needed for a student’s education. Additionally, parents should make sure to provide a space for learning, from a dedicated office if the home has one to a spare bedroom or the living room.
Where can I obtain materials for my child’s homeschool education?
There are several resources available for parents looking for materials to homeschool their children in New York. Word of mouth is a great place to start, as other parents who have homeschooled in the past may have resources they’re willing to share.
Additionally, libraries typically have a good collection of resources on hand, including textbooks, workbooks, and other educational materials parents may be able to borrow. There are also a number of online resources available, including websites such as Khan Academy and Homeschooling in New York. As these sites offer a wealth of resources, they are an excellent way to start on the path towards homeschooling and can be used to supplement other resources.
Additionally, there are many commercial websites available that offer course materials, interactive learning modules, and other educational resources for parents. Finally, at the local and state level, a variety of organizations often provide resources for parents who wish to homeschool. Such organizations may include state and regional homeschooling associations, support groups, and even local school districts themselves, which may provide access to educational resources.
How do I know which materials are most appropriate for my child?
When selecting materials for your child’s home instruction program, it’s important to consider their individual needs, interests, and age. Materials should be selected that are suited to your child’s learning level, with consideration of whether they require enrichment or remedial instruction.
In addition, each child has their own interests, so selecting materials that are of interest to them will help keep them engaged and enthusiastic about their learning. Choosing appropriate materials that align with their interests can make all the difference when it comes to your child’s interest in learning.
What are the best ways to motivate my child to learn during homeschooling?
There are many effective strategies for motivating children as they learn at home. One of the most effective is to provide incentives for completing tasks. For example, if your child completes assignments within a certain timeframe, reward them with a small prize such as a new book or game.
Additionally, setting up a rewards system with a point system can help to motivate children to strive for excellence. When a goal is reached, you can provide a reward of a special outing or an activity.
Flexibility and creativity can also be great motivators, such as combining lessons with games or activities that make learning fun.
How do I ensure my child’s safety when homeschooling them?
Homeschooling your child means taking responsibility for their safety. While some safety considerations will be similar to those of a traditional school, there are additional measures that may need to be taken. Make sure your child understands basic rules to follow when they are home alone and under your supervision, such as not answering the door or talking to strangers.
Additionally, if you are working from home, be sure to have someone check in on your children periodically to ensure their safety. Finally, you may want to consider purchasing a home security system or installing a surveillance system to keep an eye on your children while you are not home.
What are the best online learning resources available?
Online resources can provide an excellent way to learn and supplement any home schooling curriculum. Websites such as Khan Academy, Homeschooling in New York, and Virtual Learning Platforms provide a variety of materials and resources, including interactive lessons, assessments, games, and more.
Additionally, many libraries offer virtual programs, with newsletters and other resources available to assist with home instruction.
Can I connect my child to the social activities of traditional schools?
Yes, there are many ways to connect home schoolers to social activities for their age group. Many parents choose to join homeschooling support groups or networks in their local area, which can provide a great opportunity for children to meet other homeschoolers and make social connections.
Additionally, many libraries and community centers offer age-appropriate activities, such as game nights and field trips. These activities provide additional opportunities for social interaction.
How can I find educational activities and materials for my special-needs child?
If a child has special needs, such as physical, emotional, or mental disabilities, parents will need to spend extra time finding the right resources to accommodate them. Parents should start by talking to their child’s doctor and educators to get an idea of what services and resources are available in their local area.
Additionally, there are online resources available, such as the Special Education Resources Center and Learning Disabilities, which provide resources and information specifically tailored to special needs students.
What kinds of support services can I access for my homeschooling experience?
Homeschooling can be a challenging experience, but there are many support services available to make it easier. Some districts, such as the New York City Department of Education, offer access to educational consultants, parent liaisons, and other services to assist homeschooling parents.
Additionally, religious organizations may offer additional support, such as schools for special education, parent meet-ups and prayer groups. Finally, many libraries are branching into offering more and more resources for home learners.
Conclusion
Providing your child with a safe, enriching and quality homeschooling experience is possible with enough research and dedication. Taking into account New York State’s specific procedures and requirements for homeschooling, as well as the various materials and resources available to you, will help to ensure that your child receives the best possible education. With a little bit of time and effort, you can work with your child to create a convenient, tailored learning experience that meets their needs, resources, and interests.