Learn More about Homeschooling and ISPs
Thursday, July 13th, 2006By Mimi Rothschild
If you are considering homeschooling, then learning the basics is your first step. Why do families choose homeschooling? There are so many reasons, as you can imagine. Perhaps your child is falling behind his traditional school classmates and needs the extra help and time to catch up. Other children are ahead of their classmates and advancing them a few grades is not an option you’ll consider. Some parents prefer that their children seek a religious education along with their school curriculum and choose the homeschool route. Whatever your reason, you are sure to be satisfied with the many homeschool options available.
When you first decide to homeschool your child you may feel a bit overwhelmed by the choices of curriculum. So, where do you start? If you are seeking a religious curriculum there are many choices available. You can do a search online or visit a local home school supplier. It’s best if you can browse through several styles of curriculum before making the best choice for your child. Many start by purchasing their child’s appropriate grade level of curriculum but take into consideration that many children are at several grade levels. Often behind in one and ahead in another, this is simple to solve when homeschooling. Purchase a curriculum that offers separate subjects so you can choose the level of each subject that fits your child.
Learning your state’s home school regulations are necessary. Often papers need to be filed, naming your child, grade level and the name of your private home school. If you are nervous about homeschooling on your own, try searching for an Independent Study Program, also known as an ISP. There are several types of ISPs. One may offer to file your papers for you while keeping track of your child’s progress for a small yearly fee. This may mean turning in monthly home school work and keeping a calendar to turn in to the ISP. The Independent Study Program then will send all paperwork necessary to the state.
If an ISP is what you’re looking for, consider using a state provided charter Independent Study Program. These are free and will give you a specific amount of money to spend. With this money you can order homeschool curriculum, science kits, paper goods and even sports supplies. These ISP’s will often have classes for homeschoolers. Your child can attend specific classes that may or may not count towards his curriculum. The best part of participating in these homeschool classes will be the socialization they provide. With a state charter ISP, your child can participate in state testing. Also your child is offered the same provisions that any child attending a public school. If you have a child with special needs, they can set up a consultation to help direct you in teaching your special needs child.
Preparing your self to homeschool will help your child reach their goals. Research the home school programs in your area before making any decision.