Homeschool FAQ's: Homeschool & You By Mimi Rothschild
Q. What is the definition of “homeschool?”
There isn't one specific definition for homeschool. In fact, there are almost as many different definitions as there are people who homeschool their children. The one binding definition of homeschool is that learning is done outside of the conventional public and private school system. Some parents allow their children to choose the curriculum, study methods, and schedule according to a brand of homeschool called “unschooling.” Others practically recreate their own mirror version of a classroom in their home, including report cards and a daily segmented class schedule.
Q: Why would I want to homeschool?
It would be almost as easy to answer the question, “why wouldn't I want to homeschool?” For every argument opposing, there is an argument supporting. For those who may think that children will be restricted in terms of socializing with others, it can be argued that only through homeschool will kids find the freedom to be involved in a variety of different communities outside of one restricted school zone. For those concerned with standardized testing and options after homeschool, there is more than enough evidence showing that homeschool kids have even more opportunities in the workplace and in college choices. Whether your child is exhibiting problems with confidence, or behavioral problems after being in conventional school, or your focus on your family extends to their education, there are countless reasons why you would want to homeschool your children.
Q. What about the legalities of homeschool?
No matter where you live in the United States, it is required by law that your children attend school. Attending homeschool falls into this category and is perfectly legal. There are certain requirements that you will have to fulfill that will vary based on your state and county education board regulations. These are simple enough to research and fulfill before you begin to homeschool your kids.
Q. How much does it cost to homeschool?
Homeschool can cost a lot or it can cost a little – it's up to you. You can purchase expensive sets of books complete with software and study guides from a variety of sources. You can make use of free materials online, educational videos on TV or books you find in thrift stores and used book stores. Generally, the more money you invest, the less time you will have to spend searching out the perfect materials.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mimi Rothschild is a homeschooling mother, writer, children's rights advocate, and Founder and C.E.O. of home education company Learning by Grace, Inc. She and her husband of 28 years reside with their 8 children right outside Philadelphia, PA.
Rothschild launched Learning By Grace, Inc. because she believed that our nation's public school system has failed parents and students. Learning By Grace, Inc. offers online education through a multimedia-rich curriculum to PreK-12 children across the country and throughout the world.
An accomplished author, Rothschild has written books regarding education published by McGraw Hill and others. Her Homeschooling News Café Blog consists of the most current and relevant education news.Electronic reproduction of this article is permitted if content is published unchanged, appropriate credit is given, and the article title links to corresponding article webpage.
