As the new school year approaches, perhaps you’re feeling a plethora of emotions over your decision to homeschool: happiness, excitement, anticipation…with maybe even a little uncertainty and anxiety mixed in. The unknown tends to bring a rotating cycle of feelings that vary sometimes moment to moment. Let us hopefully quell whatever nervousness you may be experiencing as you transition from traditional school to the wonderful world of homeschooling with Time4Learning.

Adjusting to the Differences

Perhaps the best way to adjust to the transition of public school to homeschooling is a process known as deschooling. A simple way of looking at deschooling is abandoning the formalities of traditional school to rediscover a love of learning. For some, book work and formal instruction have a time and place, but when first beginning to homeschool, it’s much less about procedure and more about finding enjoyment in learning. 

This transition doesn’t only impact your child, but you as well. As a homeschooling parent, you will likely be more involved in your child’s education.  You’re not only taking on the function of teacher, but encourager, motivator, cheerleader, and so much more.  The deschooling process will give  you an opportunity to learn more about your child and how they learn, in turn, making you the ideal person to guide them through their educational journey. You will help them succeed and get a front-row seat to watch them soar.

When Does Homeschool Start?

A major difference from traditional school is that homeschooling can begin at any time! We often recommend beginning your homeschool year during the summer to give an adjustment period and to avoid repeating schooling that the student has completed. If this timing isn’t possible, you can absolutely begin in the fall, in the middle of the school year, or whenever works best for your family.

Understand the “Normal” Homeschool Day

A typical Time4Learning day is not from 8:00 – 3:00. Homeschooling can be done at any time of the day and any day of the week. If your most productive hours are in the evenings or on weekends, if your child enjoys extracurriculars, or they want to pursue an interest, embrace the flexibility! Make your schedule work for you…not the other way around!

Easing the Social Transition

Many new homeschoolers worry about socialization when it comes to the transition from traditional school to schooling at home. While this is a common concern, it is an unnecessary one. With all the opportunities and homeschooling flexibility available, there is no reason your child can’t have all the social interaction they want. Without being locked into the traditional school schedule, there is much more time to enjoy your community and what it has to offer. 

For example: 

  • Move your P.E. class to the park one day a week 
  • Enroll your child in a local class to learn a new or hone an existing skill (i.e. pottery, karate, horseback riding, musical instrument, etc.)
  • Join a local homeschool group for meet-ups and field trips 

These are just a few suggestions. Homeschooling does not mean your child will be isolated. If anything, their social calendar may fill up quickly!

Resources to Help the Adjustment

Making the transition to homeschool is a big one and not without a level of apprehension, but there are many resources available to make the progression as smooth as possible. Explore our blog to learn more about planning homeschooling and navigating high school homeschool. There are also homeschool support groups, socialization opportunities, and more available through Time4Learning. Sign up for blog updates filled with tips and activities, and join our Facebook group to meet many other homeschooling families. You’re not on this homeschool journey alone. Let us come along with you!