5 Steps to Build Your Best Homeschool Curriculum
Perhaps you’re considering homeschooling or maybe you’ve already made the decision to take on this exciting journey. Although getting started can seem overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be. Here are the 5 steps to homeschool success as you embark on this exciting learning adventure.
1. Understand what homeschooling is and is not; then check your state’s homeschooling laws!
Homeschooling refers to education that occurs outside of the public or private school system. While the term includes the term “home,” learning can actually take place anywhere and at any time. However, homeschooling is not the same as “remote learning” or “virtual school,” so you’ll be pleased to learn how different and flexible homeschool schedules can be!
One of the first things you should do once you’ve made the decision to homeschool your children is to find out what your state laws are since homeschooling laws can vary by state. A great place to start is your state’s Department of Education website. It is important to note that homeschool requirements can change frequently, so be sure to check these on a regular basis.
2. Look for local homeschool groups
Homeschool groups and co-ops can be useful resources as you start your homeschool journey. In addition to being a wealth of information and encouragement for learning how to homeschool, many of these groups also offer classes for homeschoolers, group field trips, and other forms of socialization. Plus you’ll receive tons of insight and advice from other homeschoolers who have years of experience and know what it’s like when you’re just starting out.
Be sure to join the Time4Learning Families Facebook group. You can ask questions or post comments and advice on everything from homeschooling, parenting, and much more!
3. Sign up for Time4Learning!
Founded in 2004, Time4Learning is a national leader in online homeschooling. Visit our How it Works page to learn how we make homeschooling easier for parents and more fun for kids! Visit our Top 5 Reasons to Homeschool with Time4Learning page to learn what sets us apart from other homeschool programs.
4. Create A Schedule & Make A Plan
Once you sign up for Time4Learning, you are ready to plan what your child’s learning day will look like. Having a plan as you get started will be a huge help and give you some learning goals to reach for. It’s helpful to decide which subjects you will work on each day and how many lessons you want your child to complete.
Time4Learning members have access to detailed lesson plans and a student planner that will help your children keep track of what they need to complete each day. You can also use this free printable homeschool planner and a goals, strengths, and needs planner!
Remember, you’re homeschooling now, so you’re not tied down to a certain schedule or number of hours each day. Find what works for you and your family, and make any changes along the way as you see fit.
5. Trust The Process
Homeschooling offers families an abundance of opportunities, many of which you will not typically find in a traditional school setting. While homeschooling may take some trial and error, you’ll soon discover what works for you and your child. Homeschooling is an exciting journey, and whether you decide to homeschool for a few years or through high school graduation, the time spent with your child will be one that you’ll always cherish.
