Where do you begin?

This is a question that every homeschooling parent asks. Along with: How do I do it? Can I do it? Is it legal in my state? Will my family support me in this decision? How will I know if my kid is "on grade level"? How will I work and homeschool my kids at the same time? Can homeschoolers go to college?

These are legitimate questions. Some have specific answers and others only you can answer. The other questions you might be asking are: What is best for my child? What is best for my family? Do I agree with what is being taught in the public school system? What about socialization?

Common topics when thinking about homeschooling.

Is it legal?

Yes, homeschooling is legal in al 50 states. Each state has specific laws and requirements that you will need to look into. In my state, all that is required is a written notice of my intent to homeschool. But not all states are that relaxed.

Co-Ops

One of the best pieces of advice I received was to join a Co-op. If you can't find one that you like, create one. You will be glad you did. You will be able to create friendships with others who share your desire to homeschool.

Style

There are many styles of homeschooling. They range from very relaxed "unschooling" to strict "school-at-home" and everything in-between. The trick is to find one that works for you and your family. You don't have to stick to one style. If one isn't working, change it up. Find what works for your family. I chose a mix of Thomas Jefferson Education and Charlotte Mason while my kids were young, and when they were older a used a mix of Thomas Jefferson Education and an online charter school. Some states have programs that will reimburse your expenses, so look for those programs.

Freedom

In reality, it is all about freedom for your family. My children loved not freezing at the bus stop before the sun came up waiting to be picked up. I loved not waiting in pickup lines. They also loved that their schoolwork was their homework. As apposed to other kids who went to school for 6 hours and then coming home and having 3 hours of homework.

Homeschooling allows your child to learn the way he/she learns best. There is a phrase, "Don't judge a fish by it's ability to climb a tree." If you allow your child to learn the way the enjoy learning they will develop a love of learning that will stay with them throughout their life. They will seek knowledge instead of finding it an unpleasant experience.