Ten Steps to Successful Homeschooling
Homeschooling can feel overwhelming, especially at first. When I started homeschooling, I didn't know the first step to take. I didn't know what the law was, how to do the required paperwork, how to choose (or create!) a curriculum, or how to find sports and group activities for my son. It took me a month to find NYCHEA because it wasn't listed under the word homeschooling. And then, slowly, with the help of a wonderful support group, I found my way.
Over the past two decades I have sorted through the advice of teachers, parents and friends, and now, through the miracle of hindsight, I feel that I know just what the right steps are to take. I hope that this list will help others who are just starting down this path.
If you have any questions on homeschooling, just ask!
The Ten Steps to Successful Homeschooling
Know the law. Scroll down past the private school info to find each state's homeschooling regulations.
Find a homeschool support group. They can help you to understand the regulations, and also find group activities. Facebook is a great resource for this! Search for: [city or county + state] + homeschool support.
Find and create group activities. Don’t forget to check out your local library for classes and meet-ups.
Investigate your child's interests and personality as well as their learning style.
Investigate your interests and personality, being honest about your teaching style.
Research, research, reasearch! The library is a fantastic resource. Facebook has a treasure trove of groups on the topic of homeschooling and alternative education. Scour the interest (and Pinterest) for teaching ideas, lesson plans, textbooks and resources based on your and your child's interests.
Investigate distance and correspondence curricula and online courses. Research through the library and online to enrich any curriculum and make it come to life. Here’s a list of free online curriculum resources.
Find local opportunities for experiential learning. Use your environment!
Create record-keeping in order to comply with legal requirements, and also to make transcripts and resumes easier to compile when they are needed.
Create an exciting learning experience that is an ongoing education that will last beyond the schooling years!