Complete Guide to Homeschooling

At Caplora International School, homeschooling is an increasingly popular choice for families seeking a flexible and personalized education for their children. 

Homeschooling has gained popularity in recent years, with parents choosing this educational option for various reasons.

Reasons for homeschooling

There are various reasons why parents choose to homeschool their children. The most common reasons include academic performance, social and emotional development, gender differences, and preparing children for adulthood.

One of the primary factors influencing the decision to homeschool is dissatisfaction with the negative environment of school  Over 26% of parents cited a negative environment as their most important reason, with more than 90% listing it as one of their reasons for choosing homeschooling [3]. This dissatisfaction can stem from concerns about safety, bullying, or inadequate support for individual learning needs.

Another significant reason for homeschooling is dissatisfaction with the academic instruction provided in traditional schools. Parents believe that national school curricula may not meet the unique needs and learning styles of their children. Homeschooled children often perform well on standardized tests, scoring 15 to 30 percentile points above their public-school counterparts. This suggests that parents perceive homeschooling as an effective way to tailor education to their child’s specific strengths and weaknesses.

By examining the growth trends and reasons behind homeschooling, we gain insights into the motivations and preferences of parents who choose to educate their children at home. 

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How Does Homeschooling Work ?

To get started with homeschooling, the first step is to confirm the legality of homeschooling in your country and understand the registration process. Different countries have varying regulations, so it’s essential to follow local guidelines.

The second step is to select a platform and curriculum that suits your child’s needs. Caplora offers Cambridge International Curriculum of designed to provide unique benefits. . Research the options available in your region to ensure compliance with local laws and that your child benefits from an optimized learning experience.

Once you’ve chosen your curriculum, it’s time to set up a dedicated learning space at home. This space should be quiet, comfortable, and well-lit, ideally with natural light from windows. It’s also important to let your child personalize this space with decorations, artwork, or self-motivating items to create a conducive and inspiring environment.

How Many Hours a Day Should You Homeschool?

In traditional schools, students usually spend six to eight hours in the classroom, plus additional time on homework and extracurricular activities. However, homeschooling is often more efficient. Many homeschooling families find that two to three hours of focused learning per day is sufficient for knowledge retention and skill development. Younger children generally require less time, with recommended study periods ranging from 20 to 60 minutes for pre-kindergarten and 30 to 90 minutes for kindergarten.

When Can You Start Homeschooling?

Each country has different legal requirements for when children must start formal education, usually between the ages of five and six.  If your child has already attended school, you may need to inform their current school and register as a homeschooling family with the local education authority.

Is It Possible to Work While Homeschooling?

Balancing a full-time job with homeschooling can be challenging but is certainly manageable. Since homeschooling offers more flexibility, families can create a schedule that accommodates both work and education. Additionally, some parents involve their children in household chores, teaching them valuable life skills while reinforcing responsibility. For added support, many families turn to local learning centers or hire tutors, blending the flexibility of homeschooling with the social interaction of group learning.

Steps to Start Homeschooling

1. Set Clear Goals: Define your objectives for homeschooling. Break down larger projects into smaller, manageable steps.
2. Explore Your Options: Join homeschooling groups, subscribe to resources, and seek advice from fellow parents to learn more about available options and challenges.
3. Understand Your Child’s Learning Style: Tailor your homeschooling methods to your child’s strengths. For example, some children may thrive with visual aids, while others prefer hands-on learning.
4. Involve Family and Friends: Sometimes, you’ll need support. Informing friends and family, including grandparents, can be beneficial, especially when you need extra help.

Do You Need a Curriculum for Homeschooling?

Most countries require children of school age to receive a formal education, so it’s important to research the legalities of homeschooling where you live. At Caplora International School, we offer a range of curricula that cater to different learning preferences. For example, the Cambridge International British Curriculum provides flexibility for students to work at their own pace, while more structured programs like the  National  curriculum ensure they stay in sync with their peers. This flexibility allows you to select the best fit for your child’s unique learning style.