If you are thinking about homeschooling and need information to get started, you have come to the right place. Homeschooling may seem overwhelming but with a purposeful direction and a plan, your school can be a success!
First, firmly making the decision to homeschool is the key to success. Since homeschooling is a change of lifestyle, having a firm decision with family support is important to adjusting and pressing through any difficulties. This time should include research on homeschooling. Read, read, read! Make sure that you are making a well informed decision. There are many resources available on-line, so take the opportunity to discover all you can about the journey of homeschooling. Take time to set goals for what your family would like to accomplish.
The next step in the homeschooling journey is to familiarize yourself with the homeschooling laws of Kentucky (see Legalities tab). Make sure that you are correctly fulfilling all legal obligations. To be prepared for homeschooling, make sure you are aware of all deadlines and paperwork that must be completed. It is also important to keep copies of all paperwork for your own records.
Now is the time to start your planning for your school year. Determine the schedule for your school. You will need to decide on a start date, end date, and hours during the day dedicated to school. This is also the time to try to plan out vacation days, field trips, and any other activities in which your student will be involved. This gives you an idea of what to expect and remember that your schedule is an overview and can still remain flexible. There are many examples of planning books available for purchase if you so choose, or you can just create your own.
After you have an overall plan, you should determine which curriculum to purchase that would work best for your family. There are a plethora of options and this stage will take research on your part. Your research could begin on-line, through resources available through a local support group, or by talking to other homeschooling families. One kind of curriculum choice is an “all-in-one”. These would contain all the subjects from one company, most including teacher’s guides. There is usually a plan included for the teacher and mostly requires following along. Or, if you would rather but together your own resources, this could allow you the ability to create what works best for your student. Remember that choosing a curriculum doesn’t mean that you need to continue using the same one year after year. If a curriculum isn’t working well, change (please note that it maybe important to do your best in finding a Math curriculum that works early since there can be different methods being used).
It is also important to join a support group. This would create opportunities for you to discuss issues, curriculum, and many other homeschool related topics with others who understand. It could also be a place where you find encouragement and support. This could also be an opportunity for your student to form friendships and participate in activities with a group.
After completing the above mentioned steps, purchase all needed supplies and set up your space for school. Make sure to look through all teacher’s guides for needed supplies to purchase before beginning your school year. Also, have a comfortable space for you and your student(s) to work.
Good planning is a key to success so now you’re ready to begin!