Homeschooling is becoming an increasingly popular option for many families around the world. However, many people who are considering homeschooling are unsure if they can afford the cost of homeschooling, as they can be quite costly, especially in the beginning. In this article, we will discuss how homeschooling is expensive and what is involved in getting started, as well as the long term costs associated with homeschooling.
Costs Involved in Starting Homeschooling
The costs associated with getting started with homeschooling can vary greatly depending on the type of curriculum and resources you choose. Generally, costs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on how comprehensive a curriculum you choose and the amount of additional materials and resources you need. Some of the other costs you may have to consider when starting homeschooling include books, and other teaching supplies, educational guides, tutors or outside teachers, and computer programs.
You will also need to consider the cost of internet service for research, streaming videos and educational activities, as well as the cost of membership at a local or virtual co-op or support group.
Cost of Curriculum Materials
One of the biggest expenses associated with homeschooling is curriculum materials. If you choose to purchase curriculum for the entire school year, it could cost several thousand dollars for all of the materials. For a comprehensive curriculum, you will need to be prepared to invest in textbooks and workbooks, as well as other supplemental materials like videos, encyclopedias, and reference books.
Even if you decide to purchase a curriculum as an ebook, it can still be expensive, as you may need to purchase additional resources and materials to accompany it. Additionally, if you are using a virtual academy, there may be an additional fee for using their services.
Cost of Field Trips, Activities & Extra Curriculars
Besides curriculum and instruction, another cost to consider with homeschooling is field trips, activities and extra-curriculars. Depending on the types of activities you are involved in, this can be a major expense as well. Common field trips and extra-curricular activities can include enrichment classes, guitar lessons, camping trips, and day programs.
Additionally, you will likely need to pay admission fees for local parks, museums, and other attractions you visit for field trips and educational programs. Also, when considering extra-curricular activities, you may need to pay for uniforms and equipment associated with the activity.
Finally, depending on the type of academic or athletic program you enroll in, you may need to pay additional fees to participate in tournaments, leagues, and other events.
Cost of Professional School Services
Another expense to consider with homeschooling is the cost of professional school services, such as private tutors, online classes, and SAT/ACT prep classes. Private tutors can be expensive, with rates ranging from $30 – $100 per hour, depending on their credentials and experience. SAT/ACT preparation courses can also be costly, with some courses costing upwards of $1,000.
Additionally, if you choose to take online classes, it is important to budget for the cost of enrolling and paying for tuition. Finally, depending on the student’s needs, you may also need to budget for tests, such as the GED or other tests for college admissions.
Cost of Supplies & Equipment
Supplies and equipment are another expense to consider with homeschooling. Depending on the type of homeschool you set up, you may need to purchase additional equipment, such as computers, projectors, and other technology. Additionally, you may need to budget for additional office supplies, such as paper, pens, pencils, rulers, and other materials.
You may also need to purchase additional materials, such as art supplies and manipulatives. Finally, depending on your homeschool setting, you may need to purchase furniture for a home classroom, such as desks, chairs, and shelves, as well as additional supplies for a science lab or other activities.
Cost of Time & Effort
Besides the financial costs associated with homeschooling, it is important to consider the cost of time and effort. Homeschooling requires a great deal of commitment and dedication from both the parent and the student. Parents must be willing to take the time to plan and oversee the curriculum and activities, as well as give up a lot of their own time in order to help teach and tutor their child.
Additionally, students need to be willing to exert the effort and focus that is necessary in order to succeed in homeschooling.
Cost of Social Opportunities & Activities
Finally, when considering homeschooling, it is important to factor in the cost of social activities and opportunities. Homeschooled children may miss out on some of the activities and opportunities that their peers in a traditional school setting may have access to, such as traditional sporting events, standardized testing, and extra-curricular activities. To help compensate for this, parents must budget for social activities and opportunities, such as homeschool sports teams, co-op groups, or joining a homeschool organization.
Additionally, you may need to budget for other activities like summer camp or trips to other cities or countries.
Conclusion
In conclusion, homeschooling can be expensive, especially if you are considering purchasing a comprehensive curriculum or learning materials. Additionally, there are other costs to consider, such as field trips, activities, and extra-curriculars, as well as the cost of professional school services, supplies and equipment, and social activities. Moreover, homeschooling can be expensive in terms of the time and effort necessary to get started and maintain the program.
For individuals and families who are considering homeschooling, it is important to factor in all of these costs to ensure that homeschooling is a viable option.