There’s as many different reasons and ways to homeschool as there are homeschoolers, which in the U.S. is at an all-time high of 3.7 million. Some of the common reasons for wanting to make this decision, sound something like this:
So, you’re thinking of homeschooling?
Well, you’ve come to right place.
I have been homeschooling my 3 children ages 9, 18 and 20 since 2014. For each, the decision was made based on their individual needs and development, as well as the current state of the public school system.
My sons: the oldest two started traditional public school from pre-school to 5th grade where they completed elementary but homeschooled from there on out. My daughter, the youngest on the other hand has been homeschooled from day one.
Between my three children who couldn’t have more different learning styles, I’ve educated gifted to special needs and everything in between. We’ve done it with the support of family, friends, and supplemental classes as well as with no money, no classes, and no curriculum. It can be done and it’s easier than it sounds.
- The public school system sucks!
- Common core is a disaster!
- Public schooling kills creativity.
- School shootings and safety.
- My kids aren’t happy in school.
- I don’t want my kids taking so many vaccines.
- I want more family time.
- I want to teach religion or more what aligns with our family values.
- We move or travel a lot.
- School does not presume competence in my child.
- School does not challenge my child.
All these reasons plus much more are valid. And though it is almost always easier than the parents think it’s going to be there is a lot to navigate and it can be overwhelming. Most parents at one time or another consider, and I hear a lot of
I’d love to but…
- Is it legal in my state?
- My spouse or ex won’t let me, do it.
- I’m a single parent and need to work.
- I’m not organized enough.
- My kids don’t like learning from me, I can’t get them to listen.
- HOW WILL THEY SOCIALIZE?
Believe me, I get it. I’ve had most of these problems and concerns myself but ultimately was able to resolve them. I know it can be messy, stinky, confusing, and all-around exhausting but I very rarely see the family who regrets their decision and I know I don’t.
So where to get started? If you’re new to homeschooling the first thing you want to do is find out the legal requirements in your area,
Go to HSDLA and click on your state. Homeschool Laws By State (hslda.org) You’ll find a lot of useful information from the HSDLA website but if you still need help making the decision, deciding whether to use a Charter or do it on your own, what curriculum to use, how to convince your spouse or any other snags that may come up, homeschool consults are included in any health coaching package on my site.
For ala carte homeschooling consults, check out your options here, send me a line or book a free 15-minute consultation. Happy homeschooling!