Where Do You Begin?
Starting out on your homeschool journey is really exciting, but it can also be quite daunting. Here are some practical things you can do as you begin your journey.
STEP ONE: Stop and breathe. There is no rush. You don't have to have it all figured out yesterday. If you've pulled your child out of the school system to homeschool then spend some time getting used to being at home all day together before diving into anything "school". Don't rush into buying any programs. It's best to spend time thinking and investigating before you start. If you feel like your child needs a bit more structure while you're in this process, then search the net for some free downloadable worksheets.
STEP TWO: Make sure you realise that homeschool mums are not all alike. Everyone enters into homeschooling from different starting points. Their reasons for homeschooling are not the same. The way they homeschool is not the same. Remember, education is not a one size fits all approach. Spend some time figuring out what will best suit you. Our next two blogs will help you get the thinking ball rolling.
STEP THREE: Get connected! Start getting to know other homeschoolers. Go to homeschool activities and get onto some facebook groups. Generally, you'll find the encouragement you need to get started from being around other homeschool mums. Finding some like minded homeschooling friends can give you a much needed life line. There is no-one else in the world that will understand your joys and struggles like another homeschool mum.
STEP FOUR: Gather information. Not only will the friendships you start forming help you on the emotional journey, but homeschool mums are a great source of knowledge. Pick their brains about what they do and how they do it. Search out mums who have been at it a long time. They have the benefit of time to help figure out what are the important things and the not-so-important things. Search the web.
Now, I bet you're itching to start making some decisions about how you're going to homeschool. But, don't put the cart before the horse. There are two very important issues to read about first. I can't emphasise this enough. You need to address these two things before even thinking about programs or lesson plans. Click here to read on...
Click on the links below to read the other blogs in this How To Start Homeschooling series: