Guide to Getting Started with Secular Homeschooling

Thinking about homeschooling is scary, and getting started with secular homeschooling is even scarier. But you can do it. You’ve already made the first step in making the decision to homeschool your child. I know there are so many questions going through your head, and probably coming at you from the people in your life. Let’s gather information before diving head first in, or even more so. Find some great information to get all your ducks in a row.

Getting Started with Secular Homeschooling

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You are most likely going to hit the internet, reading blogs (like this one!), and wondering just how you are supposed to figure it all out. I know I have been there, my husband had no idea how to do any of it either and would be asking questions that I had no answers to.

The first part of getting ready to homeschool your child should be an information-gathering expedition. Here I have compiled some of the information that you may want to look into and some links for the information.

Homeschool Laws

Research the laws in your province or state. Homeschooling is legal in all provinces and territories of Canada. Some provinces are easier to homeschool in, including providing some funding.

One place for all homeschoolers to find information and support no matter your location is HSLDA – Home School Legal Defense Association.

Curriculum

Research which type of homeschooling approach you may be interested in using. There are a number of different ones along with a different curriculum that follows them. In some provinces, you require approval from the school board on the curriculum you use.

There are a number of great curriculum to choose from, from boxed curriculum to picking and choosing those you think will work for you. Or unschooling, something completely different, no true materials needed.

Ultimate List of Secular Homeschool Curriculum

Books

There are some great books for homeschooling, one book I found extremely helpful was Cathy Duffy’s 101 Top Picks for Homeschool Curriculum. It was a great eye opener at the number of options available.

The ultimate book of homeschooling ideas : 500+ fun and creative learning activities for kids ages 3-12

I shared some great books for beginner homeschoolers, and some of the other homeschool books that I have read.

Support

Do you know any other homeschoolers? If so, ask if you can talk about about homeschooling, pick their brain.

Look at your school board website for home-based education support that they may offer. Search Facebook for local groups to join. Saskatchewan for insistence has Saskatchewan Home Based Educators membership with information and support. Other provinces have similar options.