Transitioning from Public School to Homeschool

Are you switching to homeschooling from a public school? Having a plan and knowing what you want are crucial.

Dear Parent:

You‘ve decided to homeschool. Perhaps this is a decision you have struggled with for years, or perhaps it is based on a “last straw” event in your family’s current academic situation. Truthfully, how you got here doesn’t really matter. The question you need to ask is “Now what?” Where do you go to find resources, answers, encouragement?

That path is different for every homeschool parent. There is a tremendous spirit of collaboration in the homeschool community. We ARE the rising tide that raises all ships. We want our peers to succeed because, when we succeed, we create community and success for us all.

Homeschool Laws

The laws are different for each state. Searching “how to homeschool in ___ state” on the internet gives you a wealth of resources. You can also search for local homeschool groups and cooperatives. Most organizations have someone who serves in the capacity of helping newbies get off the ground. I have found great resources with the Homeschool Legal Defense Association. Their wisdom and encouragement have been tremendous in our two decades of home education. Most importantly, do comply with your state’s laws regarding your homeschool launch.

What Are Your Goals?

Take a dispassionate look at what you want out of homeschooling. This is different for each one of us, but, as a homeschool mentor of mine used to quote, “Failing to plan is planning to fail.” I hear new families say they know solidly what they DON’T want, but have not thought about what they DO want. Have a conversation as a couple and as a family about what you want school to be like and what your goals are. You may not have all the answers, and they’ll change over time, but, above all, get in the habit of having the discussion. Remember, this is YOUR homeschool—not your mother’s, not your neighbor’s—so decide what you want.

Your Parental Role Will Change

Recognize that your parental role is going to change; it will take time for your children to understand and acknowledge that. I have often said, “I am speaking as your instructor here, NOT your mother,” and vice versa. What is important is to know that you have habits from public school, and you will have to shed those habits and form new ones. It may take as long as a year before you have established those new habits. Be kind to yourself and your kids in the transition.

Planning Is Important

Use a calendar and plan the remainder of your academic year. Set a date by which you intend to complete your academics. You may miss it by a week or two, but I assure you, NOT setting it will prolong your school year indefinitely. For more on that subject, I encourage you to read this blog post on how to homeschool.

Find a Cheerleader

Find yourself a cheerleader. This is not always a family member. For several years I had supportive friends who helped me stay encouraged. It took a long time for my family to understand that what we were doing had merit AND was worthwhile. Keep your expectations of your extended family low. They will come around, but it may take some time.

Homeschooling is as much a mindset as anything else. You have chosen a different path, and the final goal should be to raise a competent, independent adult. Your path will not be the same as your neighbor’s or your friend’s. It will be YOUR path, and I wish you the joy of the journey.

Homeschooling 101 ebook

No one knows your child better than you. We trust parents, and we want you to have the confidence to make the right decision for your situation.

We have compiled this ebook to help you through your decision. You’ll learn:

• The history of homeschooling
• How to find your state’s homeschool laws
• The different styles of homeschooling
• Tips from both professionals and veterans
• Where to find practical and inspirational resources to improve your homeschool experience

Enter your information below, and we will email the ebook to you right away.