The law and requirements differ from state to state. Refer to our resources page to find the link to HSLDA for information for your particular state.
Vision for Homeschooling
“Where there is no vision, the people are unrestrained…” Proverbs 29:18a
Knowing why you are considering homeschooling may help you in choosing the curriculum best suited for your child and circumstances. For a child homeschooling for only one year, you may want to consider using materials closely related to those used in the school in which the child will be transferring. It is also important to recognize that homeschooling is a serious commitment for both parent and child. You, the parent, may have to give up some of your own activities to accomplish the educational goals. Everything you have delegated to someone concerning your child’s education, is now your responsibility. Grades, high school transcripts, report cards, testing, transportation, and yes, even lunch fall into your lap. Without being fully prepared for this adventure, the task may become daunting in the new future, leading to “homeschool burnout.”
Counting the Cost of Homeschooling
Homeschooling is a way of live. It isn’t something you do from 9am – 3pm. It requires schooling around errands, meals, cleaning, emergencies, repair men, and extra-curricular activities of interest to each of your children. It means if the wife has a baby, ten year old Johnny will still have to be taught. Be prepared for all aspects of homeschooling life, including those that normally would not happen, if your children were in public or private school. Some of those aspects may include choosing and budgeting for a curriculum. Yes, you the parent must determine what curriculum you would like to use, and for many homeschoolers this is the most difficult part.
In the early 80’s, there was a limited amount of curriculums to choose form, but with the boom in homeschooling within the past decade many new curriculum choices have become available. Be careful, however, not to fall into the trap of using “what everyone else is using.” If this was the best way for YOUR child, you would have chosen another educational option such as private school or public school where all the kids use the same curriculum. Instead, find something that caters to your child’s learning style. Investigate all the different homeschooling philosophies, methods and even your child’s learning style to determine which option is best for you. Your local library should have many homeschool reference materials available. Some of the ones that we recommend most often are: 102 Top Picks by Cathy Duffy, The Ultimate Guide to Homeschooling by Debra Bell, and your state’s homeschooling manual (if this is available!). In Virginia, there is a very extensive manual available for purchase from Home Educators Association of Virginia, www.heav.org. Once you’ve determined your child’s learning style and a goal or direction you wish to achieve, Moore Expressions can help you find some materials to choose form, of course this is where budgeting comes in.
Budgeting for Homeschooling
Unfortunately, there are currently no federal tax breaks for homeschooling parents and the cost of their curriculum; therefore, it is important to prepare yourself financially for the amount you might incur during your homeschooling process. The average cost for used curriculum is $250.00 per child. The average cost for new can be much more. All of this depends on what type of curriculum you choose, whether you chose the most up-to-date version or one that might be a year or two older in publication. Most homeschooling can be done on any budget; however, the average amounts can give you an idea of what you can expect to spend. Remember, you also need to consider other costs in your homeschooling budget, including the rising cost of gas and vehicle wear and tear! You are the one responsible fo getting your child to all their activities they may be interested in. There are also opportunities for co-op instructors, music lessons, homeschool sports, and of course field trips. All of these can be costly adventures, but well worth the expenditure for that hands-on learner.
Homeschooling is an adventure, not only for your child; but also for you as the parent. Moore Expressions will be happy to answer any of your homeschooling questions. One of the first things to remember before homeschooling is to do your homework. Research everything before you decide on what is the best option for you and your children.
Contact Moore Expressions for help getting started with homeschooling.