Homeschooling preschool can be an enriching and rewarding experience for both parents and children—if it’s the right thing for your family. If it’s not, well, it’s definitely something to consider before you attempt to homeschool preschool!
If you are considering taking this educational path for your child, it’s important to start with a thoughtful decision-making process and carefully plan the initial steps.
Here are some steps to take when thinking about homeschooling preschool.
So, You’re Thinking About Homeschooling Preschool
1. Research and Self-Reflection
Before diving into homeschooling preschool, take the time to research about the concept of homeschooling, different methods, legal requirements in your area, and resources available.
Reflect on your reasons for considering homeschooling and your child’s learning style, interests, and needs.
Also, take into account your interests, needs, and patience. If patience isn’t your strong suit, chances are that homeschooling preschool might not be the best option for you.
And, if you’re thinking about working and homeschooling, know that it’s a lot more challenging than you may anticipate. It can be done, but it takes some maneuvering! Multitasking is a myth so don’t plan on getting a lot of other things done while homeschooling your littles!
This article may contain affiliate links to products that may help you when homeschooling preschool.
2. Connect with Other Homeschooling Families
Reach out to local homeschooling communities or online groups like our Homeschooling Preschool group to connect with other families who are homeschooling preschoolers.
It will provide you with support, guidance, and valuable insights from experienced homeschoolers.
The connections are also a great place to find out about homeschool activities and events in your area!
3. Set Educational Goals
Define your educational goals and objectives for your child’s preschool years.
Consider what you want your child to learn and achieve during this period and how you plan to assess their progress.
However, the most important goal you should have for homeschooling preschool is for your child to have fun!
Play IS learning in preschool, and it’s so important not to get bogged down with goals that you forget that your child is little and should be having fun during this learning experience.
4. Create a Curriculum
Based on your research, discussions with other homeschoolers, and educational goals, start designing a curriculum for your child’s preschool homeschooling.
You can use a pre-made curriculum or make one up yourself if you have a lot of time to do research and enjoy the planning aspect.
If you do, be sure to include activities, subjects, and materials that align with your child’s interests and developmental stage.
It’s also important to know how your child learns best. For preschoolers, it’s typically a lot of hands-on activities that resonate, but as they get older it can change. That’s when a learning style quiz for kids can come in handy so that you are designing lessons and curriculum that meets their needs where they are in the moment.
5. Gather Materials and Resources
Collect the necessary materials, books, supplies, and resources needed for your preschool homeschooling curriculum.
This may include arts and crafts materials, educational toys, workbooks, and online learning platforms.
What you need all depends on what you’ll be doing as part of your curriculum. If you’re doing gardening activities, have pots and soil, gardening gloves and boots readily available. If you’re cooking with kids, have bowls and spatulas and cookie sheets at the ready.
6. Establish a Routine
Develop a daily or weekly routine that suits your family’s lifestyle and allows for a balance between structured learning activities and free play.
Consider creating a designated learning space in your home that is conducive to focused learning.
But remember, play is most important, so weave it in liberally!
7. Legal Requirements
Familiarize yourself with the legal requirements for homeschooling preschool in your state or country.
Make sure to comply with any registration, reporting, or assessment procedures that may be necessary. Do you need to create a homeschool portfolio or file a letter of intent with the local school district? Those are important things to know before you begin.
The majority of states do not have requirements for homeschooling preschool, but it’s always a good idea to do your research and due diligence just in case your state does.
8. Start Slowly
Ease into homeschooling preschool by starting with simple activities and gradually introducing more structured learning experiences.
Allow flexibility in your approach to accommodate your child’s interests and learning pace.
9. Stay Flexible and Adapt
Be prepared to adapt your homeschooling approach based on your child’s feedback, progress, and changing needs.
Stay open to trying new methods and adjusting your curriculum as needed. If your curriculum isn’t working for you or your child, it’s okay! Change it! You never need to stick with a curriculum that isn’t a good fit!
You’ll also need to be flexible depending on the amount of sleep they have had, when they’re hungry, etc.
10. Seek Support
Don’t hesitate to seek support from other homeschooling parents whenever you encounter challenges or have questions about homeschooling preschool.
It can be challenging and overwhelming, but you are not alone!
Thinking About Homeschooling Preschool is the First Step
Embarking on the journey of homeschooling preschool requires careful planning, commitment, and a willingness to adapt to the unique needs of your child.
By following these initial steps and staying informed throughout the process, you can create a nurturing and stimulating learning environment for your preschooler at home.
It can be a time that both of you enjoy!