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Begin Homeschooling with Confidence![Description: C:\Documents and Settings\Owner.VICKISLAPTOP\Local Settings\Temporary Internet Files\Content.IE5\6MX2P0NP\MCj03979950000[1].wmf](63_files/image002.png)
� 2011 Vicki Lewis
1. Know why you are home schooling. What are your reasons?
2. Spend time in prayer with God.
� Tell Him all your hopes and fears for the coming year.
� Ask for insight into each child you plan on teaching.
� Ask Him to supply all that you need in order to home educate.
� Ask Him to make you the parent and teacher He wants you to be.
� Thank Him for going before you every step of the way!
3. Know the current law regarding home schooling in the US state in which you reside.
� Obtain a copy of the law at http://www.youcanhomeschool.org/starthere/info.asp. Click on �Legal Homeschool Options.�
� Have a current copy of the law and read it through carefully.
� Know what the law requires of you.
� Know what the law does not require of you.
� Be vigilant about the law so this educational option will remain.
4. Get support in place.
� The support of other like-minded families is vital.
� Connect with a state level Christian homeschooling organization at http://www.youcanhomeschool.org/starthere/info.asp. Click on �State Homeschool Organizations.�
� Join a local home school support group. Check with your state homeschool organization for this information.
� Check out home education magazines in print and online.
o The Teaching Home http://www.teachinghome.com
o Practical Homeschooling http://www.practicalhomeschooling.com
o The Old Schoolhouse http://thehomeschoolmagazine.com
� Get your name on the mailing lists or email newsletters of curriculum/resource providers.
o A Beka Books http://www.abeka.com
o Bob Jones University Press http://www.bjupresshomeschool.com
o Answers in Genesis http://www.answersingenesis.org
o Rainbow Resources http://www.rainbowresource.com
o Lifetime Books and Gifts http://www.shoplbg.com
o Christian Books Distributors www.christianbook.com
o Veritas Press http://www.veritaspress.com
o Trivium Pursuit http://www.triviumpursuit.com
� Join Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA). www.hslda.org
5. If you are removing your child from a conventional/government school....
� Realize that this will require adjustment time for student and teacher.
� Focus on family, faith, and character issues first.
� Individualize academics to meet needs.
� May need to ease into a full schedule.
� Restore enthusiasm for learning.
6. Determine your child�s academic level(s).
� List the subjects you plan to teach.
� Decide if your child is on grade level, below grade level, or above grade level in each subject.
7. Choose curriculum materials.
� Read curriculum review manuals. http://cathyduffyreviews.com
� Become acquainted with a variety of curricula and approaches.
� Choose the curriculum methods/materials for each subject.
� If you do not like the material, neither you nor your child will use it!
� Purchase curriculum materials and basic school supplies.
� Remember, you are a �home� before you are a �school.�
8. Create learning space at home.
� Decide where you will �do� school in your home.
� Decide how you will organize books, papers, pencils, globes, etc.
� Each child needs a place for working/storage--so does the parent.
9. Establish structure.
� Establish a yearly school calendar.
� Determine a weekly and a daily schedule.
� Plan to include your babies and toddlers.
10. Get started!
� Plan your start date.
� No amount of preparation will be perfect!
� Even veteran home schooling parents are still learning!
� Work your plans, but be willing to be flexible.
� Pray constantly.
� Trust God for the results.
[Web links accessed 3 April 2011.]