Getting Started
So you’ve decided to homeschool….now what?!
What I felt inside at this point was similar to being on top of a roller coaster as it paused before going down the first big dip. Yes, left to my own self I would have been screaming...but God was there with me all along on this journey and he can be with you too.
Just reach out to the creator of us all, Jesus Christ, and ask for help. Then rest in him that he will lead you each step of the way. You’ve got the power on your side and with that comes peace that passes all human understanding. Through the process God will refine you as he has done for me (and continues to do).
Here are some practical steps to take moving forward:
Reach Out -
Search out those who are already in the homeschooling mix. More than anything you need encouragement. You need cheerleaders that will point you back to God and encourage you to stay true to the course. (I would love to be that for you.)
Gather Information -
Try to attend a local homeschool meeting or homeschool convention (though a word for the wise - they can be overwhelming the first time, just take it in stride). Find out what coops are available to homeschoolers in your area. Pick a curriculum and give it a try.
Start small -
What are your big rocks? Teaching our boys God’s Word is core for us along with the basic subjects - reading, writing and math. After you have your feet under you then you can add other subjects.
Not everything is written in stone -
- You don’t have to teach the way they do in school
- What curriculum you start this year doesn’t need to be what you continue year after year. Allow yourself the freedom to change if something isn’t working for you.
Determine your goals -
What do you want to accomplish with your children? Some examples might be character training, a love of learning, independent learners, avid readers, etc.
Then start to make your lesson plans. Look at the year ahead and determine when you will start and end schooling. Break it down into weeks and then days. Decide if you will join any coops and go on field trips. Plan those into your school year.
Remain flexible -
Yes, have a plan or rather a routine of your daily schedule but when it doesn’t go as planned some days, just start again the next day. In the meantime, call out to God in prayer and read His word and seek out those encouragers in your life. Tomorrow is a brand new day!
Know your state’s homeschooling requirements -
Each state is different so you’ll need to check with your state’s department of education online or by phone. Here is a link to get you started with that: https://hslda.org/legal
Submit a notice of intent to homeschool (if needed) -
Somes states require this if you had your children previously enrolled in public/private education.
Join HSLDA (Homeschool Legal Defense Association) -
This is not required but I would highly recommend it. They fight for the freedom to homeschool and can help you know legally what your state can and cannot require of you as a homeschooling parent. It is always nice to have a bunch of lawyers on your side!
Keep accurate records -
You’ll need to keep an accurate record of daily attendance. It is wise to keep all of your child’s work and date is from year to year. At minimum you should keep tests, projects, reports, lesson plans.
Have fun -
Yes school and fun do go together! Learn alongside your children. Give them grace in the process and they will in turn give grace right back to you. Include fun activities in your week - board games, walks in nature, field trips, read alouds and plenty of snuggles and hugs (my favorite). You are building memories! Yay!
