FAQ

What does your kid do for socialization?

If I had a nickle for every time I was asked this question...

Let me just say, that homeschooling is what you make of it.  Meaning...if you want to be super social, then you'll find a way.  There are tons of homeschool support groups throughout the country, and if you happen to live somewhere where one doesn't exist, feel free to try and start your own!  In fact, I live in an area where there are a lot of educational opportunities for homeschoolers.  Local business and services, such as the grocery stores, fire departments, libraries...love having homeschoolers visit and will gladly give us a tour of their facility.  There are also plenty of opportunities for homeschoolers to learn together in art, music, or PE classes.  However, my home area doesn't have consistent playgroups focused on simply allowing homeschool kids get together, hang out and have fun.  So, I'm starting one!  I'm hoping it will really take off, but if not, that's perfectly all right.  I'll keep searching for ways to get my son involved with other homeschoolers!

Outside of the homeschool community, my son's social life far surpasses mine!  Sad...I know.  He has playgroups with a national program called MOMS Club (check them out!), MOPS (religious organization for mothers of preschoolers!), church, soccer, t-ball....well, you get the idea.  Frankly, I look forward to days on our calendar where there is nothing to do so we can simply rest!!

I will say that in the early years, it is up to us moms to get out there and make the connections for our kids.  Since they don't go to a classroom, they aren't going to be instantly exposed to a bunch of potential friends that they see on a consistent basis.  We, as moms (or dads!) have to work a little bit harder to create the social opportunities.  Which means....yup, you guessed it.....we have to be social! For some, that's no problem.  For others, especially moms with a large family, arranging playdates and starting social groups is a lot of work!  But I do think it will be worth it in the long run.

So my son is getting his fix of "socialization" and, if you decide to homeschool, I'm sure your kid will too!

Do I need to have a teaching license to teach?
Every state has laws and regulations you must follow if you plan to homeschool.  I'd recommend checking them out before getting started.  This website is a good start:
http://www.homeeddirectory.com/herd_state_resources

How much time do you spend preparing lessons?
I typically spend an average of two hours a week on lesson preparation for one week worth of material.  I'm sure that I'll spend more as the material gets more challenging.

How much money does it cost to homeschool?
It varies.  I heard a speaker say she spent $500 a year on supplies.  Right now, I spend very little, if any, money on the preschool lessons.  Of course, if you're going to buy curriculum, which I know I'll be doing in later years, that can start to get pretty pricey.  Luckily, there are a lot of used homeschool curriculum sales.  Check out what your state offers in the way of free resources, including the library and free online worksheets and activities.