Did you know that a lot of parents stop homeschooling when their kids reach high school because they’re afraid that they’re going to do it wrong?
Don’t be that parent! Your homeschooled teens need you now, more than ever. You have the unique opportunity to shape your child’s high school education and tailor it to their individual needs and interests. You likely already know what to do and just need a little reminder that you’re totally cut out for this!
The Basics
Just like traditional high schools, homeschooled students are typically expected to take a core set of classes in subjects such as English, math, science, and social studies. These subjects are designed to provide a well-rounded education and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
In English, for instance, students should focus on improving their writing skills, reading comprehension, and verbal communication. Math classes should provide a solid foundation in algebra, geometry, and trigonometry, while science classes should include biology, chemistry, and physics. Social studies classes should cover subjects such as history, geography, economics, and government.
In addition to the core classes, homeschooled students have the flexibility to choose electives that align with their interests and goals. Some popular electives for homeschooled students include art, music, drama, computer science, and foreign language. Art classes can help students develop their creativity and critical thinking skills, while music classes can introduce them to different cultures and improve their listening and performance skills.
Drama classes can help students develop public speaking skills and self-confidence, while computer science classes can teach them the basics of coding and programming. Foreign language classes, on the other hand, can help students develop linguistic and cultural skills, and prepare them for future study abroad opportunities or careers in international business.
Homeschool Resources:
- Homeschooling organizations: Organizations such as the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) and the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI) provide valuable resources and support for homeschooling families. These organizations can provide you with information on homeschooling laws, curriculum options, and support groups.
- Online curriculum providers: Online curriculum providers offer a wide range of homeschooling resources, including lesson plans, quizzes, and tests. Some popular providers include Time4Learning, K12, and AOP Homeschooling. These providers offer a variety of curriculum options, from individual courses to complete high school programs, and can help you find the right fit for your child.
- College websites: Many colleges have information on their websites about the high school courses and subjects they recommend for prospective students. This information can help you plan your homeschool curriculum to meet college admission requirements. For example, some colleges may require students to take four years of English, three years of math, and three years of science. By researching college requirements in advance, you can ensure that your child is taking the right courses to meet their future goals.
- Homeschooling forums and communities: Joining a homeschooling forum or community can provide you with valuable insight and support from other homeschooling parents. These forums and communities can help you find curriculum recommendations, connect with other homeschooling families, and find support for homeschooling challenges.
- Tuttle Twins Free Market Rules curriculum: The Tuttle Twins Free Market Rules! curriculum is a comprehensive resource for teaching students about money and economics. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including supply and demand, market structures, and government intervention. The curriculum is designed to be engaging and user-friendly, and is designed to help students understand economic concepts in a real-world context. The curriculum is suitable for high school students, and can help them develop important life skills such as budgeting, saving, and investing.
You’ve Got This!
In addition to the resources listed above, there are many other resources you can use to plan your homeschool high school curriculum. Whether you are looking for online courses, textbooks, or hands-on learning opportunities, there are plenty of options available. The key is to do your research, find the resources that best meet your child’s needs and interests, and build a well-rounded curriculum that prepares them for college or the workforce.
One of the advantages of homeschooling is the flexibility it provides. You can choose to follow a structured curriculum or create a more customized curriculum that incorporates a variety of resources and approaches. You can also adjust your curriculum as needed, based on your child’s progress and interests.
For example, if your child is struggling with a particular subject, you may need to provide additional support or resources to help them succeed. Conversely, if your child is excelling in a particular subject, you may want to provide more challenging coursework or opportunities for further exploration.
Homeschooling provides a wealth of opportunities for high school students. By using the resources and strategies outlined in this guide, you can help your child build a well-rounded, high-quality education that meets their needs and prepares them for the future. Whether you are new to homeschooling or have been homeschooling for years, these resources and strategies can help you build a strong curriculum and create an environment that fosters learning, creativity, and success.