Are you new and wondering how to start homeschooling now that you've made the decision to go for it? Homeschooling is a liberating journey that empowers you to customize your child’s education to their individual needs and passions. As you set off on this adventure, here are the top 10 pieces of advice to guide you in initiating and excelling in your homeschooling journey. You have WAY more freedom than you think you do!
Here is the nitty gritty on how to start homeschooling!
1. Know Your Why
Understanding the rationale behind your decision to homeschool is paramount. Whether it’s for flexibility, a personalized education, or strengthening family ties, having a clear purpose will bolster your confidence and keep you on track. Explore our podcast- "Defining your Core Values to Create Your Ideal Lifestyle" to dig deeper into this.
2. Get Familiar with Homeschooling Laws
Each state has different homeschooling laws. Make sure to research and understand the legal requirements in your area. This will ensure you’re compliant and prepared for any necessary reporting or assessments. Check out our Local page to learn about homeschool laws in your state.
3. Choose a Homeschooling Method
There are various homeschooling methods, such as Classical, Charlotte Mason, Montessori, Unschooling, and Eclectic. It’s important to learn about these methods and styles before choosing a curriculum so you can find something that will be a good fit for your family. The worst thing you can do is go onto a social media platform and ask what curriculum other people like and what you should buy. While recommendations can be helpful, they may not align with your family’s unique needs and educational philosophy.
Take the time to learn about different homeschooling methods and consider curriculums that align with your style. Choosing a curriculum because someone else likes it can lead to frustration and hinder your homeschooling experience. Research these methods and choose one that resonates with your family’s educational philosophy and your child’s learning style. Check out our How to Start Homeschooling podcasts, Part 1 and Part 2, for detailed information on homeschool methods. Would you like a guide to the styles? Download yours here!
4. Create a Flexible Schedule
One of the beauties of homeschooling is flexibility. While having a schedule is important, make sure it’s adaptable. Life happens, and some days won’t go as planned. Allow room for spontaneous learning and family time. Check out our podcasts on How to Plan your Homeschool Year.
5. Set Up a Learning Environment
Creating a dedicated learning space is crucial for a productive homeschooling experience. It doesn’t have to be a traditional classroom setup. Even if you don’t have room in your house for a designated room, you can still make a dedicated space to house books and supplies to keep things orderly. A comfortable and organized area with necessary supplies will help your child focus and enjoy learning. Use bookshelves, storage bins, or even a dedicated corner of a room to create a learning environment that suits your family’s needs. Check out our How to Start Homeschooling podcasts Part 1 and Part 2, and state-specific guides in the show notes for more information about learning spaces.
6. Join a Homeschooling Community
Connecting with other homeschooling families provides support, resources, and socialization opportunities for both you and your child. Local co-ops, online forums, and homeschooling groups can be invaluable. Check out our 2 part series on homeschool communities for more information and encouragement about getting plugged into a local community. Check out these podcasts here: Creating Homeschool Community for Your Family and Finding, Creating, and Behaving in Homeschool Community.
7. Incorporate Field Trips and Hands-On Learning
Make learning fun and engaging by incorporating field trips, experiments, and hands-on projects. Visiting museums, parks, and historical sites can bring lessons to life and make education more dynamic. For instance, a trip to a science museum can turn a lesson on physics into an interactive experience, allowing your child to see and touch the concepts they're learning about. Exploring a historical site can make history come alive, giving context and depth to the events and figures they study. Nature walks and visits to national parks can transform biology lessons, providing firsthand observation of ecosystems and wildlife. Hands-on projects, like building models or conducting experiments, encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills. These experiences not only enhance learning but also foster a love for discovery and exploration. They create lasting memories and make education an adventure, rather than a routine.
8. Utilize Resources and Curriculum
There are numerous resources and curriculums available for homeschoolers. Take advantage of libraries, online courses, educational websites, and community resources. Choose materials that align with your educational goals and your child’s interests. When selecting a curriculum, ensure it aligns with the homeschooling method you’ve chosen. This alignment will make your homeschooling experience smoother and more cohesive. If you are tempted to go onto social and ask for curriculum recommendations, be sure to include your preferred method and ask which curricula people use your preferred method. For example: "I am starting to homeschool and will use the Charlotte Mason method. For people who use CM in your homeschools, which are your favorite curricula to use?"
9. Track Progress and Set Goals
Keep track of your child’s progress and set realistic goals. This will help you stay organized and ensure your child is meeting educational milestones. Regular assessments and reflections will guide your teaching and highlight areas for improvement.
For a comprehensive tool to guide your homeschooling journey, consider our Harvesting Wisdom Homeschool Planner. This planner helps you clarify your homeschooling goals, plan out your weeks, months, and days, and track your progress throughout the year. It's designed to keep you organized and focused, ensuring that you and your child make the most of your homeschooling experience.
10. Be Patient and Flexible
Homeschooling is a learning process for both you and your child. Be patient with yourself and your child as you navigate this journey. Flexibility and a positive attitude will help you overcome challenges and celebrate successes. For help learning how to be patient and flexible, check out our podcast "Books that Shaped our Homeschooling Journeys" to get tips on how we learned how to be patient and flexible in our own homeschools.
Bonus Tip: Connect with Statheros Academy
At Statheros Academy, we offer support, resources, and a community for homeschooling families. From legal reporting to coaching, our academy is here to help you succeed. Enroll with us today to fulfill legal reporting requirements in Colorado. Additionally, you may join our email list, explore our blog, and join our Facebook group to connect with other homeschoolers to make the most of your homeschooling experience.
Embrace the adventure of homeschooling with confidence and enthusiasm. Remember, every family’s journey is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. With these tips and the support of the homeschooling community, you’re well on your way to providing a rich and fulfilling education for your child and an incredibly rewarding experience for your family.
For more support and resources, visit Statheros Academy and join our thriving homeschooling community today!
We would love to serve your family!
Happy homeschooling!