The decision to homeschool is a momentous one, but the initial excitement can quickly dissipate. It’s common to feel overwhelmed when a parent wades through the plethora of available homeschooling information. Follow these key first steps to make the journey smoother.
Pray for God’s Direction
There are seemingly infinite possible homeschooling options, and it can be difficult to know which direction to take. How do Christian parents find the right path? According to the Bible, there is no more important first step for a believer than to pray.
Scripture exhorts, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths” (Proverbs 3:5, 6). God’s children are to seek His wisdom in all matters, including homeschooling decisions. The Lord will be faithful to guide those who look to Him for direction.
Write a Homeschool Vision Statement
The Founding Fathers crafted documents that would lay a foundation of democracy for the nation in the years to come. Likewise, a homeschool vision statement will provide an underlying framework to ensure long-term success, generate inspiration, and help drive decisions based on the big picture.
Include Vision Statement Elements
- Name of the homeschool
- Purpose and mission
- Long-term vision
- Short-term goals
- Means to accomplish the goals
- Scripture verse or motto representing the vision
Know the Homeschool Laws
Homeschooling is legal in all fifty states, but every state has its own requirements. Information on legal options for each state may be researched through the Homeschool Legal Defense Association (HSLDA). Consider joining HSLDA as well. Members receive access to knowledgeable attorneys for legal advice, a monthly magazine, and other helpful benefits.
Join a Christian Homeschool Support Group
Homeschool support groups offer access to local resources and opportunities for friendships with other like-minded believers. Locate a support group through churches or by networking with local Christians. Check to see what kinds of activities are offered by the group, and what commitments are required to participate.
Learn About Homeschooling Approaches
Before plunking down cold, hard cash on curriculum, invest some time learning about different educational approaches for homeschoolers. Some prefer grade-level textbooks while others like using unit studies. What is the literature approach? How about classical education? And who is Charlotte Mason? A helpful resource is Cathy Duffy’s Top 100 Picks for Homeschool Curriculum [B&H Publishing Group, 2005].
Determine Each Child’s Learning Style
Some children excel using a hands-on curriculum, while others do better with an auditory or visual focus. Duffy’s book has a checklist to help parents determine the learning styles of their children. Knowing a child’s strengths is valuable in narrowing down which curriculum is the right fit for him.
Determine a Homeschooling Budget
It’s easy to go overboard in buying curriculum and supplies when starting out; everything looks appealing and necessary. Determine a homeschooling budget. Include books and supply costs, and also remember to factor in outside classes, computer software, field trips, sports, and group fees. If the budget is limited, investigate free or inexpensive homeschooling resources.
Attend a Homeschool Convention
A Christian homeschool convention can be the source of much inspiration. Instructional workshops are available as well as a vendor hall to peruse curriculum. Perhaps the most valuable benefit of attending a homeschool convention, however, may be the synergy that comes from rubbing shoulders with hundreds, if not thousands, of other homeschoolers. It’s an encouraging reminder that no homeschooler is alone on the journey.
Keep Praying for Your Homeschool
Establishing a Christian homeschool is an exciting time, and these first steps will help a new homeschooling family get off to a strong start. Continue to bathe all decisions in prayer, and trust that God will lead and guide every step of the way.
Linda Hayase - Linda Hayase is a former stockbroker and small business owner, but she considers homeschooling her three children to be the toughest yet ...
