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Abby Banks

Welcome to Homeschooling 101. In this course, we will explore the basics of homeschooling.

In this course, I will help you discover if you have what it takes to homeschool. There is an overwhelming amount of information out there, so we will analyze the essential questions to consider before you start the adventure of homeschooling.

Explore Homeschooling Basics Before Starting To Homeschool

  • Assess pros & cons of homeschooling
  • Analyze student & parent readiness
  • Identify your personal homeschooling style

What You Need To Know Before You Homeschool

Read more

Welcome to Homeschooling 101. In this course, we will explore the basics of homeschooling.

In this course, I will help you discover if you have what it takes to homeschool. There is an overwhelming amount of information out there, so we will analyze the essential questions to consider before you start the adventure of homeschooling.

Explore Homeschooling Basics Before Starting To Homeschool

  • Assess pros & cons of homeschooling
  • Analyze student & parent readiness
  • Identify your personal homeschooling style

What You Need To Know Before You Homeschool

When considering the homeschool option for your kids, you may say, "I'd love to homeschool, but...." We will answer the common objections in your mind. Then, by answering the question, "Am I ready for this?" you will be able to know if homeschooling would be a good fit for your family. Have you ever wondered - "Is there only one right way to homeschool?" We will explore some common ways of "doing" homeschool and help you discover the best style for you.

Homeschooling 101 is a course in self-discovery for parents who are interested in the homeschooling option, but just need some insider information to help bring clarity to the decision making process.

I include lectures in short segments so that they easily fit into your busy schedule. You will benefit from the course handouts that help you dig deeper into each topic and show you areas where you might need to give more attention. Finally, this course will help you analyze the strengths, weaknesses, and passions of yourself and your kids and see how that fits into a homeschooling style.

I am a former classroom teacher, turned homeschooling mom, so I hope this course is the confidence booster you need to jump start your family's homeschool adventure.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Debunk several objections to homeschool
  • Analyze your family's readiness to homeschool
  • Choose the homeschool style/philosophy that is the best fit for your family

Syllabus

weigh the benefits and costs of homeschooling for your family

I will explain what you will learn in this course and how it will help you on your homeschool journey.

Read more

Let's tackle the objections in your own mind first. What arguments are standing in your way?

There are pros & cons to every decision. I will help you consider what a decision to homeschool could mean for your family.

How will homeschooling benefit your family rhythm and your children's education?

What does your immediate family think of homeschooling?

What is your personality and how will that impact homeschooling? Do you have realistic expectations?

How much does homeschooling cost?

We'll discuss how to get the basics under control.

Know the laws for your state and where to find excellent legal advice.

Can you really homeschool your kids without a teaching degree?

How you homeschool is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Embrace your unique personality, educational philosophy, and your kids' strengths.

For the parent who wants to open the box and go.

For the parent who wants to teach their kids to learn for themselves.

For the parent who wants their children to play, create, and learn in real-life situations.

For the parent who values interest-led learning for their kids.

For the parent who appreciates a relaxed approach, while picking the best from every style.

You really do have all the tools you need to be a great homeschool parent. We will end with a "pep rally" and remind you of the practical exercises you completed in this course that will help you make informed decisions and have a great homeschool year.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores various homeschooling styles, which allows parents to tailor their approach to their children's unique learning needs and their own teaching preferences
Addresses common objections to homeschooling, which can help parents overcome their reservations and make a more informed decision
Analyzes family readiness for homeschooling, which helps parents assess their capacity to provide a supportive and effective learning environment
Includes short lectures and handouts, which can easily fit into a busy schedule and help parents dig deeper into each topic
Requires parents to assess their own strengths and weaknesses, which may be challenging for those who prefer a more passive learning experience
Discusses the costs associated with homeschooling, which may be a barrier for families with limited financial resources

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Reviews summary

Essential guide for homeschooling decision

According to learners, this course serves as an excellent starting point for parents considering homeschooling. Students appreciate how it helps them analyze their readiness and the pros and cons of homeschooling for their specific family situation. Many found the instructor's approach to be supportive and encouraging, especially for those feeling overwhelmed by the decision. The course is often described as a practical guide that offers actionable steps and helpful handouts. While it focuses primarily on the 'if' and 'why' of homeschooling, providing a solid foundation, some reviewers note that it doesn't delve deeply into the 'how,' like curriculum choices or specific teaching methods, which aligns with its stated goal of being a basic introduction.
Concentrates on deciding to homeschool, not detailed methods.
"Understand that this course helps you decide IF you should homeschool, not HOW to do it day-to-day."
"It clarified my decision but didn't cover curriculum options or daily schedules."
"If you're looking for detailed teaching strategies, this isn't the place."
"The course content perfectly matched the title's focus on the 'basics before you start'."
Lectures are short and easy to fit into a busy schedule.
"The short lecture segments were perfect for watching during busy days."
"I could easily fit the videos into my limited free time."
"Appreciated that the content was delivered in small, digestible chunks."
Ideal introduction for those completely new to the concept.
"As someone with zero prior knowledge of homeschooling, this was exactly what I needed."
"It breaks down the basics into understandable chunks."
"This course is perfect for parents just starting to explore homeschooling."
"Very helpful for getting the initial questions answered before diving deeper."
Offers encouragement and practical advice.
"The instructor was so encouraging! I felt much more confident after taking this course."
"It's very practical, giving concrete steps and things to think about right away."
"The handouts were really useful and helped me process the information."
"I appreciated the 'pep rally' at the end; it was just the boost I needed."
Guides parents in deciding if homeschooling is right for them.
"This course really helped me analyze whether homeschooling was the right path for my family."
"It provided a clear framework for considering the pros and cons specific to our situation..."
"I was unsure if I was ready, and this course gave me the tools to assess my readiness."
"The course is a great first step for anyone on the fence about homeschooling."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Homeschooling 101: Basics for Parents Before You Start with these activities:
The Well-Trained Mind: A Guide to Classical Education at Home
Familiarize yourself with classical education principles to inform your homeschooling style.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of the book.
  • Read the introductory chapters.
  • Explore the curriculum recommendations.
  • Identify elements that resonate.
Homeschooling For Dummies
Gain a foundational understanding of homeschooling principles and practices.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of the book.
  • Read the introductory chapters.
  • Focus on chapters relevant to your needs.
  • Take notes on key takeaways.
Research Local Homeschooling Laws and Regulations
Ensure compliance with legal requirements to avoid potential issues.
Show steps
  • Identify your state's Department of Education website.
  • Locate homeschooling regulations.
  • Summarize key requirements.
  • Consult with a legal expert, if needed.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Draft a Homeschooling Mission Statement
Articulate your core values and educational goals to guide your homeschooling journey.
Show steps
  • Reflect on your family's values.
  • Define your educational philosophy.
  • Write a concise mission statement.
  • Share and discuss with family.
Connect with Other Homeschooling Parents
Share experiences and gain insights from other homeschooling families.
Show steps
  • Join a local homeschooling group.
  • Attend a homeschooling event or conference.
  • Participate in online forums or communities.
  • Schedule regular meetups with other families.
Compile a List of Homeschooling Resources
Gather a collection of curricula, websites, and support groups to streamline your planning.
Show steps
  • Research different curricula options.
  • Identify relevant websites and blogs.
  • Find local homeschooling support groups.
  • Organize resources by subject or category.
Design a Sample Homeschooling Schedule
Visualize your daily or weekly routine to ensure a balanced and structured learning environment.
Show steps
  • Determine available homeschooling hours.
  • Allocate time for different subjects.
  • Incorporate breaks and extracurricular activities.
  • Create a visual schedule.

Career center

Learners who complete Homeschooling 101: Basics for Parents Before You Start will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Homeschooling Consultant
A homeschooling consultant provides expert advice and support to families who are considering or currently engaged in homeschooling. The consultant assists with curriculum selection, legal requirements, and finding resources. This course directly aligns with the responsibilities of a homeschooling consultant. It helps individuals assess a family's readiness to homeschool. They can then choose the homeschooling style that best fits the family. The course emphasizes answering common objections to homeschooling and provides insider information, both of which are crucial for a consultant guiding families through the process.
Homeschooling Coordinator
A homeschooling coordinator organizes and manages homeschooling programs, often within a co-op or community setting. They facilitate group activities, connect families, and provide resources. This course directly helps one become a homeschooling coordinator. It explores the basics of homeschooling, assesses different homeschooling styles, and addresses common concerns. A coordinator can use this course to better understand the needs of the families, plan activities, and provide informed guidance. The course's emphasis on self-discovery can contribute to the coordinator's effectiveness.
Educational Content Creator
An educational content creator develops engaging and informative content for various platforms, such as YouTube, podcasts, and online learning platforms. This course offers a foundation for creating content about homeschooling. The course instructor helps parents answer common objections to homeschooling. Also, the course includes practical exercises to make informed decisions about homeschooling. This background helps someone create valuable and appealing content, such as videos, articles, or podcasts, that resonate with parents interested in homeschooling. Content can be tailored to meet identified needs.
Parenting Coach
A parenting coach provides guidance and support to parents, helping them develop effective parenting strategies, improve communication with their children, and navigate the challenges of raising a family. This course helps parents considering homeschooling analyze their readiness and choose a suitable homeschooling style. A parenting coach gains insights into the unique dynamics of homeschooling families and can offer tailored advice on creating a supportive and enriching learning environment. The instructor's experience as a homeschooling parent may resonate with clients.
Educational Blogger
An educational blogger creates content related to education, learning, and teaching, often sharing tips, resources, and insights with parents, teachers, and students. This course on homeschooling provides valuable insider information and clarity to parents considering this educational option. One who takes this course can leverage their knowledge to create engaging and informative blog posts about homeschooling, addressing common concerns, sharing personal experiences, and offering advice to readers. This builds an audience seeking insights into homeschooling.
Educational Writer
An educational writer develops written content for educational materials, such as textbooks, workbooks, online courses, and educational websites. This course helps parents explore the basics of homeschooling and answers common objections. This provides a foundation for creating accurate, informative, and engaging content about homeschooling for various audiences. The course's analysis of homeschooling styles also helps one develop resources that cater to diverse learning preferences. Educational writers may find this course helpful for understanding the homeschooling landscape.
Tutor
A tutor provides individualized instruction and support to students, helping them improve their understanding of academic subjects and develop effective study skills. This course helps parents understand the nuances of homeschooling. A tutor gains insights into different learning styles, parental involvement in education, and alternative educational approaches. This equips a tutor to better understand the needs of homeschooled students and tailor their tutoring strategies to complement their learning environment. Gaining a better understanding of a student's unique educational needs may boost a tutor's effectiveness.
Education Consultant
An education consultant provides expert advice and guidance to students, parents, and educational institutions on various educational matters. This course explores the basics of homeschooling and answers common objections. It helps parents assess their readiness and choose a suitable homeschooling style. This understanding of different educational approaches, including homeschooling, helps one become an effective education consultant, capable of advising families on diverse learning options based on their strengths and needs. Understanding the nuances of homeschooling helps one advise families.
Curriculum Developer
A curriculum developer designs and creates educational materials for various subjects and age groups. This course helps parents considering homeschooling evaluate the pros and cons, assess family readiness, and identify their homeschooling style, each of which helps build a foundation for analyzing existing curriculum. By exploring different homeschooling philosophies, one gains insights into what makes a good curriculum and what to look for when developing one. For someone interested in becoming a curriculum developer, this course may be a valuable starting point.
Learning Specialist
A learning specialist assesses students' learning styles and needs, developing individualized learning plans and strategies to support their academic success. This course helps one understand the homeschooling environment. This is useful for a learning specialist who may work with homeschooled students or advise families. Understanding the different homeschooling styles and philosophies allows a learning specialist to tailor their approach. Homeschooling parents may also have distinct styles.
Family Counselor
A family counselor provides therapeutic support to families, helping them resolve conflicts, improve communication, and address emotional and behavioral issues. This course helps parents analyze their family's readiness for homeschooling. This is relevant for a family counselor, who can gain insights into the potential challenges and benefits of homeschooling on family dynamics. Understanding the reasons behind a family's decision to homeschool helps a counselor provide more effective support and guidance. This course may also provide the counselor with specific issues to address.
Teacher
A teacher is responsible for educating students in a classroom setting, delivering instruction, assessing student progress, and managing the learning environment. This course explores the basics of homeschooling. A teacher gains insights into alternative educational approaches and understands the challenges and benefits from a parent's perspective. Understanding different educational models helps a teacher adapt their teaching strategies to meet the diverse needs of students and create a more inclusive classroom environment. Having taught in the classroom previously, the instructor brings a valuable perspective to homeschooling.
Community Education Director
A community education director develops and manages educational programs and courses for adults and children within a local community. This course explores the basics of homeschooling and empowers parents to take charge of their children's education. A community education director may find this course insightful for understanding the diverse educational needs of families in the community. This is especially true for those exploring alternative learning options. This helps a director develop programs and resources that cater to a wider range of educational preferences.
Education Technology Specialist
An education technology specialist integrates technology into the classroom or learning environment, training teachers on using new tools and software. This course provides insight into the needs of homeschooling families. An education technology specialist can leverage this knowledge to identify and recommend appropriate educational technologies and online resources. This also helps one provide effective support to homeschooling parents who are seeking to enhance their children's learning experience with technology. An individual can tailor the programs they recommend.
Education Administrator
An education administrator oversees the daily operations of a school or educational program, managing budgets, staffing, curriculum development, and student affairs. While this course focuses on homeschooling, an education administrator may find some value in understanding alternative educational models and the needs of families who choose to homeschool. This course explores different homeschooling styles and philosophies. An administrator with this knowledge may be better equipped to address the diverse needs of students and families within their school community. Understanding homeschooling helps develop a broader view.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Homeschooling 101: Basics for Parents Before You Start.
Provides a comprehensive guide to classical education, offering a structured curriculum for homeschooling from kindergarten through high school. It covers subjects like history, literature, science, and math, providing a framework for parents to follow. It's particularly useful for parents considering a classical approach to homeschooling and want a detailed roadmap. This book is commonly used as a reference by homeschooling parents.
Offers a broad overview of homeschooling, covering various aspects such as curriculum choices, legal requirements, and socialization. It addresses common concerns and provides practical advice for getting started. It's a good resource for parents who are new to homeschooling and want a general understanding of the process. This book is valuable as a starting point for understanding the landscape of homeschooling.

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