Visualize a Support System
For many parents beginning the homeschooling journey, determining a support system is the hardest step. The best way to get started, is to first understand all of the different support options available. From friends and family to online communities, there is a wide variety of potential support to help you along the way.
Finding a support system to connect with for advice, resources, and camaraderie is essential for any homeschooler.
Create a Plan
With your support system in place, the next step is formulating a plan for your family’s homeschooling journey. Consider creating an outline of your goals. Ask yourself, why is my family homeschooling and what do we want to accomplish?
From the basics of the lessons you plan to teach and study materials you plan to use, to the expanded areas of what language, art, culture, and extracurricular activities you will be focusing on and incorporating; by outlining each aspect of the plan, you are able to have a more conscious idea of what needs to be done.
Select Curriculum
Once you have developed an idea of what you want to do, the next step is selecting curriculum. Think about the materials that will best support the plan you and your family have put together. There are a variety of options available, from textbooks, online courses, lesson plans, and more.
Take your time choosing the curriculum that works best for your family and review resources for free and low cost materials that are available.
Consider Home Environment
The physical home environment plays an important role in the homeschooling journey. Designating a space for academics can help determine the mindset for learning. The environment should be free of distractions and tailored to your family’s needs.
Utilizing tools such as a timer can help with managing time and creating a schedule that works for your family.
Be Proactive
In adopting a homeschooling mindset, it’s important to promote a pro-active stance on the learning process. This means inspiring your student’s desire to explore and gain knowledge on their own. As a family, collaborate on exploring areas of interest, involve yourself in discussions, encourage a love of learning, and create teachable moments.
Keep Track of Progress
One of the main advantages of homeschooling is having the ability to track progress at a much faster and more detailed rate. Keeping accurate records helps you to stay organized and keep track of completion and progress.
This can also be beneficial in tracking trends to help with teaching in the future.
Socialize Responsibly
Socialization is often a common concern of parents beginning the homeschooling journey. It is important to develop a well-balanced plan that allows time for socializing with other peers, however, be mindful of choosing activities that will promote the right environment for learning. Utilizing online social networks, joining a co-op or local homeschool groups, and even open forums are all potential options for homeschoolers to connect with each other.
Attend Homeschool Fairs
Homeschool fairs are an excellent way to meet with other homeschoolers, learn from experts, attend workshops, and look at curriculum in-person to decide if it is a good fit for your family. There are both online and in-person homeschool fairs available and require little to no cost to attend.
Learn About Local Regulations
Homeschool regulations vary among states and even more so, counties. It is essential to look into which guidelines apply to your areas in regards to when paperwork needs to be submitted, what required material needs to be included, and any other regulations that may apply. 1
Take a Deep Breath After the Preparation Process
The process of homeschooling can often be an intimidating one and requires a lot of preparation. Once you have completed the process of envisioning a support system, creating a plan, selecting curriculum, and researching local regulations, it’s important to recognize your progress and give yourself a pat on the back.
Homeschooling is not an overnight process and it can take time for it to begin to feel normal. 1
Adjust Remaining Course of Action
As you and your family begin to homeschool, it is important to review how the process is going and adjust any aspects that are not working well. Additionally, it’s important to stay flexible and understand that the process of homeschooling shifts over time.
As parents involved in the homeschool journey, it is necessary to be open and patient when it comes to any kind of change. 1
Conclusion
Starting the homeschool journey is an exciting experience that requires planning, preparation, and a lot of research. It is essential to understand all of the factors that go into homeschooling, organize your plan, and gather the resources you need before diving into it.
Remember to rely on your support system throughout the process and stay flexible and open-minded for any potential changes. With these steps, you will be well on your way to beginning a successful homeschooling journey for your family.