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Critical Homeschooling Basics

Homeschooling Basics

Here are some homeschooling basics to help get you started. While the idea of homeschooling appeals to many people, it can appear to be extremely complicated and too difficult of a thing to do. The thought of where to start may actually overwhelm you since you haven't done this before. Well, I'm here to provide some tips that will make getting started homeschooling easier for you.

Watch the 2 1/2 minute video below for the basic 8 steps, then continue reading about the steps below the video. Within each step you'll find links that will provide you additional tips. Be sure to read this additional information as well. All of the links will take you to other pages on this website.

Then come back to this page and watch the "I Will Survive" video I found on You Tube. This video will help you destress and help you realize that you, too, will survive homeschooling. 

Below the "I Will Survive" video, you'll find my recommendation and the link to the ABC's of Homeschooling Class which I have taken and thoroughly recommend for both new and seasoned homeschoolers.

And if you're transitioning from public school to homeschool, click here for some tips to help with the transition.

And now that you've gotten your homeschooling feet wet, click here for some tips to help you become the best homeschooling parent you can be.

Homeschooling Basics - Where To Start

#1 Prayer

Turn to the Lord in prayer and ask him to lead, guide, and direct you as you homeschool. He wants you to succeed and will put the right resources, books and people in your path. You'll not only succeed, you and your children will enjoy the journey!


#2 Review Rules & Regulations

The first thing you need to do is review your state's local rules, regulations and homeschooling laws. A great place to start is with your local Board of Education - even the state Board of Education should have some great information for you. Keep in mind that the majority of school districts require an official document informing them of your decision to homeschool your children. Just make sure you know what you need to do to stay within the local and state regulations for homeschooling.


#3 Set A Budget

Just like anything else that involves finances, it's wise to set a homeschooling budget for the year before you begin purchasing supplies. If you see some awesome math DVD or fancy chemistry set, you'll have to see where you're at, budget-wise, before you make the purchase. Just doing this might keep you from buying a lot of unnecessary stuff that will end up in the closet; I say this from experience. Click here for some tips from a trying to be frugal mom.


#4 Educate Yourself

Before you begin homeschooling, you need to be well-educated about it, know how it works and get familiar with the various homeschooling methods. To do this, look online for tutorials and other forms of information. Use this website as your  go to resource. You can also find a variety of homeschooling books, e-books and e-zines on the subject as well. Educate yourself as much as possible!

Homeschooling Basics
#5 Pick a Curriculum

You can't start homeschooling your children if you don't have a curriculum. This doesn't have to be a stressful decision for you, especially if you give yourself enough time to research the different curriculums available. When reviewing the different curriculums, take into consideration your children and how they process information and their learning style. Talk to other homeschooling parents about the materials they use and their recommendations. Just because one curriculum is more expensive doesn't mean it's the best for your children, so take your time! Click here for some tips on how to find the best homeschool curriculum for you and your child.


#6 Find a Local Homeschooling Group

Homeschooling isn't as "secluded" as it used to be (click here for homeschool statistics) and there are now many homeschooling groups around the world. More than likely you will be able to find one that is local or nearby. It is important that you find one and join as it helps with socialization. There are even online homeschooling groups available, too. For homeschool socialization tips click here.


#7 Determine Where School Will Be

It doesn't matter if you plan on teaching at the kitchen table or if you have a designated school room, you need to determine where school is going to be held. You also will need to have an idea of how your lessons are going to be structured. For example, what time will school start and end? In what order are you going to teach certain subjects? All of this is very flexible but learning and moods are generally better when some type of order is present. Click here for some homeschool organization strategies.

#8 Keep Records

You are now your child's teacher, which means you need to have a system for keeping records. You can use file folders, boxes or even homeschooling software to do this - the point is that it must be done.

You will need to check with your state and local laws for these guidelines as they vary depending on where you live. For example, some subjects require standardized testing while others don't - it all depends on the state you live in. Just understand that you will have to keep records so that you can keep track of the progress your children are making with their schooling. Click here for some record keeping tips.

Homeschooling Basics - and a recommendation

The above homeschooling basics should help get you started in the right direction, and the video should inspire you, but for some additional guidance, I would like to recommend the ABC's of Homeschooling Class by Terri Johnson. This class will be of benefit to newbies, veterans or if you are feeling somewhat overwhelmed. I was homeschooling for years before I took the class, but I'm glad I did. There are 26 lessons; the class covers homeschooling from a to z. I learned something from each and every lesson and got some new ideas to apply in my own homeschool. You can find out more about the ABC's of Homeschooling Class by clicking here.


You can read my review of the ABC's of Homeschooling Class by clicking here.



Never forget - You Will Survive Homeschooling! And if you have any questions about getting started, contact me directly here.

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