How to Homeschool Guide

Sometimes circumstances happen when traditional schooling outside the home has to be put on hold. Whether it be due to a prolonged illness or injury, a natural disaster, an unforeseen forced closure of the school or other situation where attending public or private school is not an immediate option, it does not mean that your child's education also has to shut down. While the situation may be temporary, you may still have concerns that an extended absence from school will be detrimental to your child's continued progress in their learning. Many schools do provide support and resources for extended closures to help facilitate your child's continued education, however in some circumstances that is not the case and you would like a plan of action.

The thought of educating your child at home, even for those who school at home on an ongoing daily basis, can be intimidating even in the best of circumstances. But there are options available that can provide some of the needed tools to face the challenge with confidence. In addition to your local school support networks, curriculum options and resources successfully and regularly used by families can help you to meet your students education needs.

In order to select the correct options to fit your particular circumstance, you will need to self-evaluate the situation and determine your desired objectives. Some questions to consider when evaluating your unique situation: 

• Is my student on track with their current school curriculum?
• Am I looking to maintain or enhance my child's knowledge base?
• Does my child work better independently or need more guided learning?
• How reliable is our internet access?
• What are my budget constraints for curriculum and resources?

Evaluating the answers to these questions can help point you in the right direction for finding appropriate educational programs to meet your needs.

Balancing Core Subjects and Interests. You will want to ensure practice and/or remediation for the major subject areas of math, language arts, science and history to ensure that skills that have been previously establish do not become rusty as they sometimes do from an extended leave. This time away can also be spent pursuing your child's passion for art, music, technology skills and other fun elective-type courses.

Understanding Your Child's Learning Style.  Another important thing that is extremely helpful in selecting programs for your student is to determine what type of learner your child is.

Hands-on Learners: Does your student like to learn by doing? Do they prefer to use their hands to explore the world around them? Hands-on learning activities can include experimentation, building things, applying principles in an active manner.

Visual Learners: Perhaps you have a child who enjoys reading and absorbs information quickly in this way. Books, video presentations, the internet all work well for the visual learner.

Auditory Learners: Auditory learners are great listeners and pick up knowledge best when it is explained verbally to them. Audio books, videoed lectures, music and discussing topics are a few ways that an auditory learner learns.

You can learn more about learning dispositions and styles HERE.

Balancing Core Subjects and Interests. Selecting the appropriate curriculum or supplement to meet your student's learning style and needs is really the most difficult task in educating your child from home. Because no one probably knows your child better than you, it will only take a short time to determine what programs are suited for your child.

Support from Homeschool Buyers Club. We offer an extensive selection of affordable curricula and valuable support to keep your student on track. Our resources are designed to ensure that your child's education continues to thrive, even outside the traditional classroom setting.

Taking steps to be prepared in the event that your child will not be able to attend their regular classes ensures that they will continue to thrive and their education will be enhanced, encouraged and energized through your efforts.

Other helpful tips:

1. Set Clear Goals: Before you begin homeschooling, take some time to define your educational goals. What do you want your children to achieve academically and personally? Setting clear goals will help you stay focused and ensure that your children are progressing.
2. Create a Schedule: Establishing a daily schedule is essential for homeschooling. It provides structure and helps children develop good time management skills. Create a routine that includes dedicated study time, breaks, and extracurricular activities.
3. Choose the Right Curriculum: Selecting the right curriculum is crucial for your children's education. Consider their learning styles, interests, and strengths. Look for resources that align with your educational goals and provide engaging and interactive content.
4. Create a Learning Environment: Designate a specific area in your home as a learning space. It should be quiet, well-lit, and free from distractions. Stock it with necessary supplies, such as books, stationery, and educational materials, to create a conducive learning environment.
5. Incorporate Hands-On Activities: Make learning fun and interactive by incorporating hands-on activities into your lessons. Experiment with science projects, create art projects, or engage in practical life skills. These activities not only enhance learning but also make it more enjoyable for your children.
6. Join Homeschooling Communities: Connect with other homeschooling families in your area or online. Joining homeschooling communities provides support, resources, and opportunities for socialization. You can exchange ideas, share experiences, and even organize field trips or group activities.
7. Stay Flexible: Remember that homeschooling allows for flexibility. Embrace the freedom to adapt your approach based on your children's needs and interests. Be open to trying new teaching methods or adjusting your schedule as necessary.

Starting to educate children at home can be a fulfilling and enriching experience. By following these tips, you'll be well-equipped to provide a quality education for your children while enjoying the journey together.

Guidance and tips brought to you by our very own Ginny, Homeschool Buyers Club homeschool expert and mother. Submit comments or feedback here or email hello@homeschoolbuyersclub.com.