Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Homeschooling
Contents:
I am new to homeschooling. How do I get started?
FLO offers a free information packet to help you. This contains a recommended reading list that provides valuable resources, tips about natural learning, and information about our organization and the services we offer.
Local support groups in your area are also a good place to start. They offer advice and resources by people who have already dealt with many of the questions and problems that you are now facing. Support group lists are available from several sources and usually arranged by state. Two good lists are located in the "Resources" section of http://www.homeedmag.com, and the "Support" section of http://www.nhen.org. FLO also offers a brief list of groups in the greater Spokane area for those who request it (call 1-800-405-8378).
For new homeschoolers, we suggest you research the laws governing homeschooling in your individual state. Several Internet resources offer this information. Use the keywords "homeschool laws" to begin your search. Three good locations are: The "Resources" section of http://www.homeedmag.com, the "Homeschooling" section of http://www.hslda.org and the "Homeschooling Help" section of http://www.nhen.org.
How can I find out about legal requirements for homeschooling in my state?
Several Internet resources offer this information. Use the keywords "homeschool laws" to begin your search. Three good locations are: The "Resources" section of http://www.homeedmag.com, the "Homeschooling" section of http://www.hslda.org and the "Homeschooling Help" section of http://www.nhen.org.
For homeschoolers in Washington State, FLO makes this information available free upon request. Order at our web site or call our office at 1-800-405-8378 or 509-467-2552.
How can I find support groups in my state?
Support group lists are available from several sources and usually arranged by state. Two good lists are located in the "Resources" section of http://www.homeedmag.com, and the "Support" section of http://www.nhen.org. FLO also offers a brief list of groups in the greater Spokane area for those who request it (call 1-800-405-8378).
How do I homeschool?
There are as many methods of homeschooling as there are homeschoolers. The process can involve a highly structured program with regimented curriculum or it may center on natural learning in a hands-on experiential style or it may fall somewhere in between. Homeschooling, by definition, is an individualized program tailored to suit the needs of each child. Different states also have guidelines that must be followed. Research the laws in your state for more information and requirements.
What is "natural learning"?
As the name implies, this is a process of learning in a natural, hands-on manner. Rather than curriculum based, natural learning is more experiential – learning by doing. The method has also been described as interest-led or child-led. Just as children learn to walk and talk when they are ready, they will also learn everything else they need to know when the time is right for each individual child.
By pursuing their interests or natural curiosity, children eagerly learn to read, write and perform math functions in order to follow their desire to know more about a topic that fascinates them. The parents’ role, then, is to provide the resources necessary to help their children find the answers they are seeking. In the process, children learn valuable research techniques that will serve them well in adulthood. They don’t need to know all the answers – they simply need to know where to go to find them. For more information about natural learning, look for books by John Holt or refer to the Natural Learning Syllabus which is available at our web site.
Where do I find curriculum?
Several curriculum sources are available to those who choose that route. These include correspondence schools that provide sets of prescribed curriculum and the parents oversee the process. A list of these schools is available upon request from FLO at 1-800-405-8378.
For parents who want to select their own curriculum, local bookstores, children’s stores, and the Internet offer grade-specific and subject-specific materials for this purpose. One good source on the web is http://www.sra4kids.com. Homeschool support groups may also arrange curriculum exchanges/sales for their members.
|
