You do not need an education degree to homeschool your children. In fact, according to a report from the National Home Education Research Institute, the academic performance of homeschooled children is not connected to whether the parent has a teaching degree. However, there are rules and regulations in each state about what constitutes a legal homeschool. If you are considering homeschooling your children, the first step is to become familiar with the laws around homeschooling in your state, to make sure that you follow all guidelines. Read on to learn more about considerations when deciding on an educational situation for your children.
Does Homeschooling Fit Your Family’s Needs?
Consider not only whether you feel your child would benefit from the one-on-one attention of homeschooling, but whether you have the creativity, enthusiasm, and drive needed to ensure his or her success. Think about the reasons for choosing homeschool over public or private schooling options, and list the pros and cons of taking this route. For older children, you should also consider their preferences, particularly around connections with peers. Keep in mind that you will be taking on a huge challenge, one that your children’s future depends on.
Consider the Laws in Your State
Before embarking on your homeschooling journey, review the laws about homeschooling in your state. An excellent resource is the Home School Legal Defense Association, which maintains resources online. Make sure that you can develop a curriculum and guidelines for your kids that meet those laws before committing to the homeschool process.
Do Your Research
Spend time reading books about homeschooling, exploring online resources and curriculum, and reading blogs by those who are documenting their homeschooling journeys. If possible, you may arrange for you (and your children) to spend a few days at a operating homeschool to get a sense of what your day-to-day life will be like. Get your feet wet before making the decision, so that you will be prepared and know what to expect from your homeschool journey. Education.com is a great resource portal for those who are just starting out.
Connect with Other Homeschoolers
Search for a support group of others who are homeschooling their children in your local area; online support groups are also available. Your peers will be a valuable source of advice, socialization, connection, and curriculum development. Sharing resources with others in the same situation will help add to the richness of your child’s education. For example, parents can trade off teaching children about subjects in which they have particular expertise.
Build Your Curriculum
Homeschooling isn’t all fun and games; it takes careful planning in order to be successful. There are ready-made curricula available for purchase at teacher’s stores, homeschooling fairs, and online; there is also free curriculum available for download. Most homeschooling families use a combination of these resources as they figure out what works best.
Related Resource: Master’s in Education in School Psychology
While you don’t need an education degree to homeschool your children, in most states you do need a high school diploma. More important than your own education; however, is your willingness to work hard to provide your child the best possible education.
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