The decision has been made and you have decided to home school your teen. It is not as scary as it sounds. So I will try to ease your fears. I recently graduated one child, have 2 more teens that I have been schooling along with 2 younger children, so I am getting lots of practice.
If you have just begun to home school you may fear that you are not qualified to teach your teen, but that is not true. You are qualified and have actually been homeschooling your child without knowing it. Have you ever helped your teen with their homework? Do you ever read with your teen? Discuss current events? Take trips to museums, zoo, and parks? If you have, then you have been homeschooling your child.
It is normal to fear the unknown path of homeschooling but it is not a difficult path. The most important asset to obtain and work on is patience. When I first began schooling, I asked a lot of questions of experienced homeschooling parents. Those are the parents I learned from and now I am in that position to help you. It is possible to home school your teen, be successful and have fun all at the same time.
As a homeschooler you will have the freedom to teach your child at your pace and the subjects you desire. You can incorporate schooling into your daily activities and not worry about hours of homework to complete after a long day at school.
One of the biggest fears most parents come to me with is the fear of teaching subjects they are unfamiliar with. There are different ways to approach this dilemma.
- Ask your family and friends for help. Many will help with subjects that may not be your strong points.
- Trade expertise with other home school families. This one of our favorites, I have taught Math and Science while other parents have helped with History and English.
- Hire a tutor to help.
- Get involved with Home School Groups in your area. Many groups will have classes offered to homeschoolers and taught by other parents.
- Enroll your child in an independent study program . There are many available online and you can supervise.
One of the best options that I can offer, is to learn with your child. You will be amazed at how much information you will recall by reviewing the subjects. Your child will notice that you are trying to learn in order to help them and will value your attention and time.
Some points to address are the following:
- Make a list of ways you are or possibly are already homeschooling in your home. These activities can become part of your homeschooling venture.
- Make a list of all your fears and doubts. Address these fears by approaching experienced home school parents or local support groups. You will be amazed to hear that we all had the same doubts and fears and that you are not alone.
- Study the laws pertaining to homeschooling in your state. If you have questions or concerns discuss them with local homeschooling leaders.
Remember patience is key. Homeschooling is a wonderful experience and teaching your teen is another wonderful adventure you will experience along with your teen.