The Beginner’s Guide to Homeschool Preparation
It took me years to commit to homeschooling our children! Hubby thought it was a good idea before we even had children, but I was insecure in my ability to educate them. Once I became open to the concept before the oldest began Kindergarten, I did my research. I discovered South Carolina Connections Academy, a virtual school, five years later (I said years!). I found the Homeschool Style that works for me! Now, what do I do? How do I get ready for schooling at home? Below I answer the questions I had in the beginning so your transition will be easier.
Contents
What do I need to know before homeschooling?
The first thing to look at is your state’s legal requirements for homeschooling. The Home School Legal Defense Association, HSDLA, has a wonderful website to walk you through what you need to know about your state’s requirements. You can find their site here.
Knowing your homeschool style and your child’s learning style will guide you in choosing the curriculum. I explain homeschool styles in the 8 Different Homeschooling Styles post. You can figure out your child’s learning style in the Homeschooler’s Guide to Learning Styles. Once you are squared away with the legal stuff and have your curriculum, it is time to prepare for the academic year!
How do I prepare for a new homeschool year?
- Order Curriculum Allow enough time to receive your curriculum and review it.
- Create a Study Space The study space my students use changed over the years as they grew and became more independent. In the primary grades, it will be easier to have a designated study space with all the supplies organized in one location. I converted our formal dining room into a classroom during that time by adding a bookcase to hold the materials and a dry erase board. Later each student got a desk in their room to help them focus.
- Buy School Supplies Supplies will vary with your chosen curriculum and teaching style. Since we decided on the virtual school, we ensured each student had a laptop with the software needed to complete assignments, notebooks, and pencils. As lessons come up with science experiments and projects, we pick up additional supplies.
- Lesson Preparation Reviewing and prepping for the first two weeks of lessons will start the year on the right foot. You will benefit from having a little breathing room in the lesson prep as life happens and throws a kink in the schedule later.
- Create a Menu This does not sound school related, but this step helps tremendously. Having a menu for a couple of weeks of dinners will save time and prevent some stress.
How do I homeschool as a beginner?
- In the beginning, it is essential to have support. It is helpful to connect with other families that homeschool. There are homeschool support groups and online homeschool groups on Facebook.
- Getting your students involved in activities is excellent for giving them a social outlet. We are in martial arts classes, and my daughter takes dance lessons. The libraries provide classes and activities for children for free. Recreation centers have classes and sports available year-round.
- Create and stick to a routine. Having regular bed and wake times will make the school days go smoother. Incorporating a designated lunch time or breaks gives students time to get the sillies out so they can focus on the rest of the school work.
- Get started the first week slowly. Start with a few classes a day and add more the following week. Take the extra time you would use for lessons to do something special with the kids the first week. This will give you time to take those first-day pictures, go to the park, or get a special treat to celebrate.
Frequently Asked Questions
The last thing you need to know
Being organized will make your life easier as a homeschooler. The time you spend preparing for the new school year will make the first few weeks smoother. Remember, the most significant benefit of homeschooling is that you completely control your student’s education. Run your homeschool the way you need to for your family. Make adjustments as you go and enjoy this time with your kids!
