Homeschooling During COVID-19

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With all of the uncertainty that families are facing with their children’s education this upcoming school year due to COVID-19, many are opting to homeschool independently. If this sounds like your situation, you’re in the right place! Here we will be discussing ways to get your homeschool set up as seamlessly as possible.

Even if you have never even considered homeschooling before, we want you to know that YOU CAN DO THIS!

Check Your Local Laws

First, you will want to check your state’s laws for homeschooling. Make sure you’re operating within the law before you make any big decisions. A great place to start is hslda.org, which stands for Home School Legal Defense Association. They have in depth information on the legal requirements for homeschooling in each state. 

How to Start Homeschooling Series

Next, be sure to check out our How to Start Homeschooling video series, in which we discuss the following aspects of homeschooling: Finding your “why”, Homeschool methods, How to choose and find curriculum, Creating a schedule, routine, and environment, and Socialization tips

A Crash Course in Curriculum

Online Curriculum Options

If you need curriculum that is easily accessible, online classes might be a good option for you. Online curriculum is usually affordable and easy to use, but some families have concerns about the amount of screen time they require. However, you’re welcome to use it as much or as little as you want. 

Here is a short list of some popular online curriculums:

Physical Workbooks

If you’re more into physical curriculum, we recommend you start out with workbooks at first to give yourself more time to research all the different curriculum options available. We don’t want you to rush into choosing a textbook curriculum, purchase it and find out it isn’t a good fit for you and your children. Don’t be afraid to start with workbooks as you ease into homeschooling. Some families even choose to primarily use workbooks as their main curriculum, and that works too! Workbooks are usually available in every subject imaginable for every grade level, or at least for the elementary school grades.

Here are just some of many popular workbook brands:

Printable Worksheets

If you’re looking for something even more affordable, you can look for free worksheet printables online. As long as you have a printer stocked with paper and ink, this is a great option!

Some clever places to look for printables:

You Don’t Always Need a Curriculum

Also, keep in mind that curriculum doesn’t always have to consist of actual textbooks and worksheets. Teach phonics from beginner reading books, or teach social studies from a history podcast or audiobook. And listen to advice from seasoned homeschoolers! Parents who have been doing this for years will surely have some fun and creative ways to teach lessons, and are sure to inspire you. 

Extracurricular Activities

Online Classes

Sadly, there probably aren’t as many extracurricular options these days as there used to be. However, there are some websites, such as Outschool, that have always offered online classes for kids of all ages in all subjects. 

Local Vendors

Try checking with local vendors that would usually teach in-person classes, and see if they are offering modified or virtual classes. Dance classes and music classes are two examples of extracurricular activities that are still able to be taught virtually. You can also check out activities that are potentially social-distancing appropriate, such as tennis or horseback riding.

Local Public Resources

Don’t forget to check out any resources your local library is offering. Many are doing virtual story times as well as other engaging activities for kids and teens.

Need More Support?

YOU CAN DO THIS!

Even though homeschooling is not a common path to take these days, just know that YOU CAN DO THIS. You don’t need an impeccable homeschool space or fancy curriculum to teach your kids what they need to know. As long as you stay intentional and flexible, you will be successful!

If you feel like you still have questions, or would like to have more personalized support, we are thrilled to announce that we now offer homeschool consultations! You will receive personalized information and resources that takes into account your unique situation. We want to provide as much support as possible to brand new homeschoolers, and we feel like this is the most effective way to do that.

Through the end of August 2020, we are offering a $10 off discount, so schedule your consultation today!

Also, check out the list of our favorite online resources for homeschoolers. It has many affordable, or even free, resources that are easily accessible and simple to use. 

Congratulations on making the big first step in taking charge of your children’s education! You will do great. And always remember that we are here for you. 

Happy Homeschooling!

Jenny and Stacey