Relax! It’s going to be fine. You’ve been teaching your children since they were born! You just need some friends to come alongside you to offer encouragement and suggestions, share experiences, and answer questions as you enter this new phase of teaching and parenting. Just take it step by step, and we’ll help you get started!
First, realize that you are beginning a journey. Start slowly, and expect many changes along the way. Try some things out and see what works. There are many ways to homeschool and endless variations. Your homeschool won’t look exactly like anyone else’s. Be flexible, give grace to your kids and yourself, and do what’s best for your family. Ask for help when you need it.
Remember, you don’t have to be a homeschooling expert with all subjects taught perfectly on the first day. Sometimes it helps to begin with just one subject, and gradually add more learning to your schedule. Expect that some of what you try may not work. It might be the wrong timing, or it might be wrong for your family. That’s one reason why you may not want to invest too much into curriculum too soon! If your family is coming from public school, you may even want to take a little time off to relax, get used to spending more time together, and adjust to the lack of outside control over family life and learning. This is called “deschooling.”
Finally, consider joining Homeschool 4 Real Life (h4RL.com). Follow us on Facebook or subscribe on YouTube to get to know us better and find some great resources. Visit our “Getting Started” page for all sorts of tools and resources for those new to homeschooling. Once you join, you can ask your questions in the forums to get advice from other homeschoolers and visit the “Teaching & Parenting” page to view videos with tips and strategies for introducing concepts, extending understanding, and raising children with wisdom and joy!
