Despite the traditional view of schooling being a physical reality in a more conventional setting, more and more parents are beginning to choose homeschooling for their children and the number of homeschoolers increases with each passing year. Home schooling is a form of education which can provide a rich and rewarding experience for both parent and child alike, but what does it entail and what does the parent need to be aware of when undertaking this journey for their child?
In this article, we will be looking at what it takes to create a homeschool curriculum; the preparation necessary for providing a successful education, health and safety considerations, and the children’s development, as well as the legal requirements each parent must adhere to when homeschooling.
What Are the Basic Steps in Planning a Homeschool Curriculum?
The first steps taken in creating a homeschool curriculum are to decide on the educational approach and then look at what is needed to implement it. Parents will need to research textbooks, workbooks and other resources that align to their chosen approach while ensuring they meet their individual educational goals.
It is also important to familiarise yourself with local and state laws and regulations that apply to elementary and high school educational requirements. Doing so will ensure the parent meets all necessary requirements when providing a homeschool curriculum. Once the educational curriculum is determined it is important to look into appropriate educational activities and courses outside of the usual textbooks and workbooks that can make up the homeschool curriculum.
These activities can include educational field trips, co-op classes and online courses that supplement the educational approach. When complemented with educational activities, a homeschool curriculum will provide a balanced, well-rounded education with a range of topics and courses that promotes learning and exploration.
What Health and Safety Considerations Are Required for Homeschooling?
When beginning to homeschool, there are important health and safety considerations for the parent to consider before taking on the responsibility. Parents need to be aware of the physical needs of their child, such as providing regular exercise, adequate sleep and a healthy diet to ensure their child’s health and wellbeing is looked after while they are homeschooled. The safety of their child is also an important factor in homeschooling and parents must ensure they create a safe learning environment in the home while also creating boundaries and encouraging their child to take ownership of their safety.
Parents should consider any safety risks related to materials and equipment used as part of the homeschool curriculum as well as any courses taken outside the home. It is also recommended that parents limit their child’s online or digital learning time and manage their virtual interactions with outsiders.
How Can I Ensure My Child’s Development Is Progressing?
Parents should ensure their child is developing the required everyday life skills to meet their educational requirements, such as studying independently, managing a time plan, understanding concepts and having the maturity to learn through self-study. Educational activities can help develop these skills as well as improve their online or digital learning capabilities and provide them with an opportunity to interact with other students in a safe and structured environment. Parents should also look into activities such as art, music and physical education to ensure the child’s complete learning needs are fulfilled.
Are There Any Legal Requirements I Should Be Aware Of?
When looking at homeschooling as an option, it is important the parent is aware of any legal requirements in their local area. Each state has its own set of laws and regulations that govern homeschooling and parents need to ensure they abide by them when creating a homeschool curriculum.
Most states and local areas require parents to register as a homeschooler and provide an educational plan that includes details of the homeschool curriculum. Parents should also take into consideration any curriculum standards and annual assessments required. It is important to remember that the laws and regulations vary from state to state and parents should always research and know what is required before taking on the homeschooling journey for their child.
Conclusion
The decision to homeschool can be both a daunting and rewarding experience for both parent and child alike. To ensure this journey is successful, parents must be adequately prepared with the required educational approach, understanding of local and state laws, health and safety considerations, courses available to supplement the curriculum, and the overall development of the child. With an understanding of the basics and creating a successful curriculum, no doubt parents and children will enjoy the journey of creating and growing together in their homeschool experience.