New to Homeschooling?
The thought of homeschooling your children may seem quite overwhelming. We all had so many questions at first: Where do I get materials, what curriculum should I use, can I really do this (or do I really want to), what about socialization, how much time does it take, and am I in this all alone?
Fear not! The answers are not as scary as the questions. Relax and have fun! The reasons you are homeschooling are to enjoy spending time with your children, learn together in a setting you tailor to your own needs and desires, choosing curriculum that best suits your child’s learning style, and to maintain a safe and joyous learning atmosphere.
Here is something you might want to consider: In a typical school setting, one teacher spends 6-7 hours in class with 20 or more children, and this time involves everything on the day's schedule, not just teaching time. The homeschooling equivalent to that is one-on-one tutoring for 2-4 hours a day, depending on the grade level. Teachers also have to make time adjusting to many different learning styles to suit a classroom of students. Learning (and teaching) is a lot easier in a relaxed, home setting with undivided attention. And who knows your children better than you? Learning styles whether visual, audio or kinetic are easy to incorporate at home.
A good place to start is by talking to people you know who already homeschool their children. They will have plenty of good advice to get you started. If you don't know any homeschoolers then find a homeschool support group in your area, such as this one. CHEA serves families in and around Marion County, Florida.
Next you should find out about the homeschooling laws in Florida. Click on Homeschool FAQs to find answers to basic legal questions.
There are endless choices regarding curriculum and learning materials available, some packaged as a bundle or kit, some individually chosen, and many learning aids are free online or at your public library. CHEA offers a curriculum share date during the year for families to show what they use for others to examine and discuss. Also consider attending the statewide FPEA Homeschool Convention held in Orlando every Memorial Day weekend. Everything you want to know about homeschooling can be found there via lectures, workshops, and vendors.
You are not alone in this wonderful journey! Homeschooling has grown tremendously in recent years and that growth has yielded a wide variety of resources, support groups and a lifestyle that is second to none.
Please consider joining the CHEA family. We are here to help you!
Contact us if you have any questions: