Homeschool 101: The Basics of Home Education

It’s not easy being a new homeschooler. It’s overwhelming to take on new responsibilities, learn the lingo, and adapt to a new lifestyle. 

And, regardless of how much you research and prepare, sometimes getting the answers you need seems downright impossible. If only there was a Homeschool 101 class available for us all!

Homeschool 101: The Basics of Home Education

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How about a Homeschool 101 blog series instead?

Why You Need Homeschool 101

The longer we homeschool, the more I see new families starting their journey without an understanding of the basics of home education.

I know from experience that these basics make a difference. I had a pretty good grasp on the basics when we began homeschooling in 2009, but I certainly had a lot to learn. I can only imagine how much easier our first years would’ve been if I understood all of the basics and not tried to figure them out as I went along.

Homeschool 101: The Basics of Home Education

In most instances, learn as you go is the motto of homeschooling. However, there are some things that will help everything else fall into place if addressed in the beginning.  If these basics aren’t addressed then, it can take years to correct.

That’s where this Homeschool 101 series comes in.

Homeschool 101:
The Basics of Home Education

What are these basics of home education and why are they so important? Through this Homeschool 101 series, not only will we look at methods, curriculum, schedules, and socialization, we’ll look at how all of these things set the tone of your homeschool in the day-to-day and long-term.

Since 101-level courses introduce topics, this Homeschool 101 series will introduce these basics in a digestible, non-intimidating way.

Before we dive into methods, socialization, and other basics, let’s take a quick look at the first thing needed to get started with homeschooling.

Day 1 – Getting Started

Luckily the first step in getting started is fairly short and simple.  Whether you’re homeschooling preschool or transitioning to homeschool, it’s crucial to learn the legal requirements involved.

For United States residents, HSLDA is a fantastic go-to resource to get this information. More specifically, reviewing the homeschool laws in your state will let you know details and your next steps in regards to registration, record-keeping, and specific rules.

Because this is such an important part of Homeschool 101, we’ll stop here for the first day of the series. If you haven’t familiarized yourself with the legal requirements, take some time visit the links above.  Then check in tomorrow for the next topic in the series: