N is for Homeschooling "Need to Know"

If you are considering homeschooling there are things you "need to know". In fact, you may believe that there are more things that you need to know than can possibly be put into a blog post. Indeed there are probably books written on what you "need to know" in order to homeschool. Therefore, I'm going to approach this a little differently. I'm going to make it short and easy. Of course, this is just my humble opinion.

Need to Know #1: Priorities

The number one thing I recommend that you need to know in order to homeschool is to know your priorities. Why do you want to homeschool? What subjects do you feel are the most or least important? Will you be able to teach those subjects or will you need help? Can you accept help? Why are those subjects important to you? How important is your faith? Do you have the time, patience, persistence and energy to adequately provide an education or is this a project or a temporary fix to another problem? What is the most important thing that you want to teach to your child?

There are no right or really wrong answers but it is important to know your priorities because they will influence how you approach teaching your child(ren). Also, your priorities will influence every homeschooling choice you will need to make from curriculum to extracurricular activities. I suggest that you know what you want for your child, whether it is realistic or not (not that it makes a difference but so that you will know how much you will have to work at it) and your level of commitment. Know what is important to you for your child's education. What are your educational priorities?

Need to Know #2: Nothing Else

If your priorities are right, if you have determined that homeschooling is the best option for your child's education and if you understand the "whys" and the commitment and you are still willing to homeschool then there is nothing else you will need to know to start homeschooling.

Everything else is available, accessible or attainable either on the internet, in your local community or through online sources.  By knowing your priorities you will have taken the first step in the right direction. Just keep on the path of doing "what is best" for your child's education. If homeschooling is that option-

Happy Homeschooling!

JulieD