A few Thoughts and Tips for Those New To and Thinking About Homeschooling.

We all start from the beginning, that overwhelming feeling of how we will get it done, or what to use, or will we meet all the needs. All those feelings are NORMAL, and yes many of them come back every now and then. When you begin to homeschool, it seems that society and Satan want to get in your way. The same is true if you are event thinking about it.

Every year when we get ready to start our new year, officially that is, as we homeschool year around, something happens to try and interrupt our plans. This year, our horse was severely injured. No, I haven’t talked about it on my blog yet, but let’s just say that it has been traumatic for all of us on many levels. Her care is taking me 3-4 sometimes 5-6 hours a day. So, that is distracting us from homeschool some. I am getting up, set out all assignments, with directions, and then going outside to ted to her. I am out for about an hour to an hour and a half before my children wake. By the time I get in most mornings they have eaten, dressed, and are working on morning chores. Then I grab a bite of something and we settle in for some school time.

This is an only an example of how life can seem to get in the way of trying to homeschool. As a new homeschooler, though something like the above would really interrupt you. Had we not already had fairly set routines, there is no way, we would be doing much as far as book schooling.

Another way that beginning the homeschool journey can seem overwhelming is the immense amount of curriculum, homeschooling styles, and how to books out there. I still as a fairly seasoned homeschooler tend to be overwhelmed with a lot of it. This year was another year of change. You can see those changes here. Another way to educate yourself on curriculum is to read reviews of curriculum. As part of the TOS Review Crew, I have reviews posted on my blog. After a few years, you get a hang of what works and doesn’t work for you and your students. You also learn to modify and adapt things to work for you.

A great way to learn more about homeschooling, getting started and if this is the right choice for you is to attend a homeschooling convention or online conference. The Schoolhouse Expo is just right around the corner. It is an online homeschool conference. You can attend in your jammies, without your makeup and your children can be home with you. I attended the conference in May and I can say you won’t be disappointed. From the freebies you get before the conference to the doorprizes to the speakers. You really want to check into The Schoolhouse Expo.

As new homeschoolers or contemplating homeschool, what are your biggest fears? Questions, concerns?

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