Homeschooling Dos and Don'ts

Before you begin homeschooling, review current research on homeschooling benefits, statistics and homeschooling vs. public schooling. This information will give you the confidence you need to successfully homeschool your child and hang in there when the going gets tough. It will also help you deal with nosy neighbors and skeptical relatves!

Make sure your expectations are realistic. Familiarize yourself with the disadvantages of homeschooling. As with anything, when homeschooling there will be good days and days that aren't so good. Make a list of reasons you decided to homeschool and refer to it if you ever feel discouraged.

Surround yourself with supportive friends and family members. Join a homeschool support group or online forum to facilitate interaction with other homeschoolers.

Give yourself permission to take a day off when things get overwhelming. Spend the day in your pajamas or round up the kids and spend an afternoon outdoors.

Homeschool laws vary from state to state. Visit the Homeschool Legal Defense Association to view a summary of your state's laws. You can also find helpful information from state or local homeschool support groups.

It can be difficult to homeschool when facing opposition from loved ones. However, you are entitled by law to teach your own children, and statistics show homeschool students outperform both public school and private school students on standardized tests.

It is normal to have second thoughts when beginning your homeschool journey, but stand by the decision you've made for your family. As you watch your children thrive, your confidence in home education will grow. Here are some tips for dealing with those who are against homeschooling. Here are some homeschooling facts you can trust.

Your home school does not have to resemble a traditional classroom. Devise a schedule and curriculum that fits your family's wants and desires. Choose a style of homeschooling that meets your family's needs and fits your child's primary learning style.

Some common homeschool methods are textbook/workbook, computer-based, Montessori, relaxed, unschooling, Charlotte Mason, Waldorf, classical, Thomas Jefferson, and eclectic.

It may take some experimentation to find the style that's right for your family. Here are detailed descriptions of the most popular homeschooling methods.

You can save money and make learning enjoyable by following your child's interests. Check out books from the local library, go on field trips and play homeschool games.

There are many ways to learn naturally, through the course of daily life. Your child can become a better writer by keeping a journal of her favorite movies. Your child can improve mathematics skills by building a clubhouse. Don't be afraid to think outside the box.

Homeschooling can cost as much or as little as a parent wants to spend, and research shows that parents can successfully homeschool their children no matter what their family income.

Take advantage of homeschool discounts, buy used homeschooling books and find ways to reuse or sell materials. Here are some additional tips for affordable homeschooling.

Don't miss out on the fun by sending your 3 and 4 year olds to school. You taught your infant to eat, walk, talk and use the potty, and you are more than capable of teaching your preschooler.

Home is the perfect environment for young children to learn manners, social skills and the basics of reading, writing and arithmetic. Let your child be your little helper, and find simple ways to make preschool a part of your day.

Look for inexpensive activities that are easy to set up and clean up. Here are some tips for homeschooling preschool.

Homeschool support groups are great sources of information and encouragement. They also provide your child with opportunities to make friends and participate in fun field trips and activities. If there is not a group in your area, here are some tips for starting your own homeschool support group.

You don't have to spend 8 hours a day at the kitchen table. Set the books aside and make time to go on homeschool field trips, participate in homeschooling activities and celebrate homeschool holidays.

Homeschooling should be a rewarding experience for both parents and children. Relax and enjoy your journey!