7 Tips for Deciding Whether or Not Homeschooling is for Your Family

Deciding whether or not to homeschool is not always an easy task. There is a lot to consider. For me, it was a drawn-out decision because of my many apprehensions about how things would work out. It took me almost 10 years to take the leap. If you're on the fence about whether or not to homeschool, here are seven tips that helped me to make a sound decision.

PRAYER IS THE FIRST RESPONSE

In everything, we are to pray and make our requests known to God. Even in the seemingly small things. Ask God and He will answer you. I like to say, "We see up the street, but God sees around the corner!" When we pray and seek His will, we can never go wrong.

IS YOUR SPOUSE ON BOARD

This is important! I know some women might say it doesn't matter, but you're not going to hear that from me. It matters a great deal that your home is undivided on this decision. In your prayer time, make known that you desire to have your spouse on the same page with you when it comes to homeschooling.

WHAT'S YOUR WHY

Why do you want to homeschool? Do you want more time together as a family? Has your school district dropped the ball with your child's education? Whatever your reasons are for considering homeschooling, keep that at the forefront of your decision-making process.

DO YOUR RESEARCH

There are a million and one ways you can homeschool, so do your research. Don't neglect to spend time looking at a variety of curricula and reading articles. What seems like it will work for your family? How does your child learn best? Are you a Charlotte Mason kind of family or do you like to incorporate a little bit of everything like eclectic homeschoolers do?

WHAT ARE THE STATE REQUIREMENTS?

Each state has different laws and regulations for homeschooling. You'll want to know what's required of you by law, so you stay in right standing. What does your county require of you to get started? Keeping your homeschool legal and organized is very important.

WHAT'S BEST FOR YOUR FAMILY

How will homeschooling work for your family's day-to-day life? What's working for your neighbor may not be the best thing for you. What times will you homeschool? Will you unschool? Which curriculum, if any will you use? You won't be able to think of everything but spend time jotting down these things to make your decision easier. I've created a workbook for you to record your thoughts, concerns, prayers, and planning. You can grab your copy of the workbook above.

BE GRACIOUS

Everyone needs grace; you're not exempt. No matter what you choose, know that you are doing what's best for your family. All that matters is that you're in the will of God for your family. You got this, and God has you!