What is homeschooling?

Homeschooling is a parent directed approach to education that goes beyond the mere teaching of academic disciplines. When a family chooses to homeschool, the parents (or guardian) assume the responsibility for their child's education. This includes all aspects of learning - reading, writing, math, history, etc. In most states, the parent also is assuming the responsibility for all books and supplies, extracurricular activities and social connections. It is important to understand this prior to homeschooling, so that there is no confusion about the level of responsibility required to homeschool.

The laws regarding homeschooling vary from state to state, so one of the first steps to take when considering homeschooling is to find out what your state requires of homeschoolers. Usually a search of the internet for homeschooling in your state should yield guidelines on what is required. If this does not help there are other places to look. The Home School Legal Defense Association website gives information about each state's laws and requirements for homeschoolers.

Homeschooling provides parents with the opportunity to direct the instruction and development of their children while conveying the beliefs and values that are important to the family. This gives the family the opportunity to instruct their children using materials that are in keeping with their beliefs, as well as using methods and resources that they feel are consistent with their belief systems. Many families consider this an important reason to homeschool.

A homeschooling environment offers children a highly individualized approach to learning and experiencing life. Many families choose to homeschool to provide what they believe is the most appropriate and beneficial educational experience. Homeschooling is a form of instruction that allows information to be presented in a way that best suit a child's learning styles or learning differences. Homeschoolers choose curriculum and approaches that best fit their philosophy, family needs and goals, rather than just requiring their children to conform to whatever curriculum or presentation is used in a school setting.