If you're considering homeschooling, congratulations! You're on a rewarding, promising path that can take you wherever you want to go. Homeschooling is an excellent step toward creating unique educational experiences that meet different needs, foster different skills, and do wonders for students. However, the whole process can seem a little intimidating from the outside. We're here to help you get started.
Customize Homeschool For You And Your Student
Once you've decided to homeschool, your next job is to figure out how. The best place to start is with an accredited online school that will help you choose classes, plan educational paths, and personalize curriculum, all without taking away the freedom you want from your homeschooling experience.
Next, it's time to get into the details. Here are a few things to focus on!
#1: Do your research.
Different states have different laws for homeschoolers. Idaho just so happens to be famously homeschool-friendly, so if you're already in the Gem State, you're in the right place! Remember to research things like how to withdraw from a public school, keeping records of classes and credits, and the compulsory attendance rule (which means that, even if a student graduates early, they must still attend school until they turn 16).
#2: Decide what you want.
Having specific goals for your homeschooling experience can help you make all the best decisions. For example, if a student enjoys reading and creative writing but struggles with math, homeschooling allows that student to take more challenging English classes while going at their own pace through math courses.
#3: Break some rules.
Okay, don't break the big ones--but one great part about homeschooling is that you can do things differently than a traditional classroom. If a student learns better in the fresh air, take the class to the park. If another student has trouble focusing, create a "study space" free of distractions. Education is in your hands: feel free to play around with it!
#4: Try new things.
One real advantage of homeschooling is that you can emphasize the importance of learning life-skills by trying new things. Go on a hike for biology class, volunteer as a social studies project, or plan a vacation as a math final. As a homeschooler, you can make all kinds of things into learning experiences. Remember that even homeschool students need a break from all that education!
#5: Focus on social development.
Many people think that homeschooling is essentially the decision to become a hermit, but that's not true at all. The Idaho homeschool community is full of students in similar situations, all of whom are eager to meet new people and have new experiences. Kids can learn social skills and make friends just like in a public school but without all the pressures and stress of a traditional classroom environment.
So, are you ready to start homeschooling? We're here to help! Contact us today to take control of education in a brand-new way.
