Is homeschooling
right for you?
How
can you know if homeschooling is for you? There are several
things to consider if you are thinking about teaching your
child at home rather than sending him or her to a public,
private, or charter school.
Do
you genuinely enjoy spending time with your child? If not,
you are probably not a good candidate for homeschooling. When
you homeschool, you will be spending a significant portion
of your time with your child. Do you feel you could do this,
or can you see your child getting on your nerves after the
10th consecutive day together without a break?
Are
you educated enough to teach your child? You don't need to
have an education degree, but you should know the educational
basics for teaching your child. Basic reading, math skills
and an understanding of science, geography and history. And
you need to be willing to upgrade your skills or do your own
research on topics you may be unfamiliar with. And you will
need to have time set aside to do this outside of your regular
homeschooling time.
Be
willing to get out and socialize your child with other children
of a similar age. Some homeschooled children do not spend
social time, so it is imperative they participate in activities
outside the home with similarly aged children, whether it
be dance classes or sporting teams.
If
you feel you can do homeschooling, your next step will be
to contact your state or province to find out the homeschooling
requirements you will need to meet.
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