How to Start Homeschooling in 8 Easy Steps
by Gail FelkerTalk to and Visit with Homeschoolers
Why did you choose homeschooling?
What have been the benefits as well as the difficulties?
What curriculum are you using?
Do you recommend a particular book?
Also, ask if you might observe them in action. When I began researching homeschooling, my oldest child (Benjamin, who is now 11) was a baby. I sat like a little mouse in the corner of my friend's schoolroom. I had taught school for five years but could not visualize how to do it in a home setting. Vernell welcomed me and was pleased I was interested. I watched her son learn his math facts. Jonathan was jumping on a trampoline while reciting his facts! I knew he would have been labeled "hyperactive" or "ADD" in the public school. This mother knew just what her son needed -- a strict diet and a lot of bouncing! Teachers in traditional classrooms try to individualize education, but they can only go so far. This opened up to me a world of education that I formerly knew nothing about.
It is common to begin with no idea how homeschooling works at the practical level. That's why you should talk to and visit with people who are doing it. They can tell you their schedule and share a typical day. Suddenly you realize you can do it too!
If you have found value in this article, consider subscribing to Homeschooling Today Magazine. We are only able to offer resources like this through support from our subscribers. Your subscription will bring a year's worth of ready-made lesseons, vital homeschooling information, and like-minded encouragement right to your doorstep!