FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS) ABOUT HOMESCHOOLING |
"What do you mean by homeschooling?"
In the simplest of terms, it means teaching your child at home rather than sending her to a public school.
"Is homeschooling legal?"
Yes, homeschooling is legal in all 50 states and on military bases overseas. In Washington, you may homeschool by simply filing a notice of intent to do so, and testing or assessing annually. You'll need to either take a qualifying course, have 45 quarter units of college, or have a qualified teacher supervise. Many public school districts offer Alternative Education Programs as well, with names like HomeLink, though these are extensions of the public school system rather than actually homeschooling. See the WA Law page for complete information.
"Do I have to have a college degree to homeschool?"
WA law requires that a parent has 45 credit hours of higher education, or complete a parent qualification course in order to homeschool. See the Law page for a list of these courses.
"Why would somebody WANT to homeschool?"
Ask a hundred different homeschoolers and you will likely get a hundred different answers. Some of the most frequently given reasons are:
* Family togetherness. Your children are not away from the home half their waking hours.
* Stability. Especially in families that move a lot, homeschooling gives a child a continuity he might not otherwise have.
* Values. A parent can choose curriculum that supports her values and those she wishes to instill in her children.
* Safety. Although the likelihood of serious injury occurring in a public school is very small, some parents feel safer with their child at home.
* Custom Education. In a large classroom, a teacher must necessarily "teach to the middle" or majority of students. If a child is far ahead or far behind, the education my be largely irrelevant to him.
* 1-to-1 Teaching. Even in the most ideal classroom, the amount of 1-to-1 time between teacher and student cannot compare to the time a homeschooling parent and child spend together.
"Why might somebody choose NOT to homeschool?"
The biggest reason not to homeschool is simply because you have no desire to do so. While it is a wonderful option, only Bible-believing Christian parents have an obligation to keep their children out of government schools. Homeschooling requires a commitment from the whole family, and though best for every child, it may not be best for every family situation. Each family needs to decide which option most benefits the whole family, then pursue it to the best of their ability.
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"What about socialization?"
The average homeschooler is involved in four outside activities. Some of those include Scouting, 4-H, Boys & Girls' Clubs, religious organizations, youth symphonies, outside classes, dance troupes, nature and wildlife organizations and more. A homeschooled child interacts with people every day: people in his neighborhood, in her church, at the market, on field trips. The difference is that parents are able to CHOOSE with whom she associates. Socialization occurs daily. The difference is the most social interaction in a homeschool is under the supervision of adults.
"How much does this cost?"
The average homeschool family spends just under $400 per child each year to homeschool. That's an average. Those using a pre-packaged full curriculum will probably spend more, many of us spend a LOT less. How much you spend depends upon your personal finances, your homeschooling style, and how much you do yourself. The library is free, and homeschooling can be done with nothing beyond the library. Some expenses other than books (which can be purchased used) might include: annual passes to the Zoo, Aquarium, science and art museums, tuition for special classes, music lessons, field trip expenses, memberships, and art supplies. As you can see, these are mostly optional expenses. Your clothing and food expenses will likely be less.
"Is there somebody who will help me?"
Yes! There are local support groups throughout the West Sound area.
"What about homeschooling through my local school district?"
Under the law, that's not home based instruction, it's alternative education and is still part of the public school system. Click here to read more about Alt Ed programs.
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