Homeschooling 101: High School

I’m back today with another Homeschooling 101 post.  Today we’re talking about homeschooling through highschool.

 

Homeschooling through the upper grades can be an overwhelming and intimidating thought that can create alarm in some of the most relaxed homeschooling parents.

So I wanted to start off this post by encouraging you.

YOU CAN DO IT!

Aside from the academics required, your primary goal is to prepare your student for their adult life. Homeschooling can help continue to build a bond with your student, and cement your relationship during a tumultuous time in their lives. Having a parent they can count on for training and sound advice will have eternal rewards when it comes to their future.

Homeschooling through high school can also allow students to experience more things without the confinements of a classroom setting. You’re free to get out and actually participate in various things that interest them, along with learning in a more hands-on fashion. You can also tailor the curriculum towards their career aspirations, and challenge them academically with accelerated programs and college level work if and when students are ready.

 

Social Development

Socially speaking teens are also susceptive to peer-pressure, the need to fit in and conform to various “groups”. At home you can create a safe learning environment where these pressures are removed. Instead your student will have the opportunity to become more self-confident in who they are and who God has created them to be.

 

High School Credits & Classes

There are several options when it comes to the demands of high school level subjects. Co-ops, online, and DVD courses are a popular choice for homeschooling through subjects that require more expertise on the part of the teacher. And don’t forget to make it fun. Students at this level can help tailor a unit study or more in depth project based on their goals and interests.

There are also college dual-enrollment classes available to homeschoolers which can help students become accustomed to a classroom environment. They also give students college credit while technically still in high school.

 

Plan Ahead

A little planning will go a long way to creating an effective and positive high school experience for both you and your student. You will want to discuss with your student their future goals and career prospects. If college is in their future, make sure to take time to look at the entrance requirements for your prospective college so your student will be able to meet those requirements upon graduation from high school. Build your curriculum to fit your state requirements along with consideration for their future goals.

I also suggest having your students take an aptitude test during 8^th grade, or prior to the start of 9^th grade. This is great in helping students find strengths and interests as they prepare for their adult careers. You can find free aptitude tests online. Use the tests as a guide in helping your student, but don’t let them deter students from pursing their interests.

Here are some more things to keep in mind when preparing to homeschool your high school student:

• Transcripts and Record Keeping
• College Entrance Requirements
• Career Goals
• Student Interests (Consider having your student help tailor their year towards their goals.)

For more detailed information on homeschooling through High School check out my Homeschooling 101: A guide to getting started!

If you’ve missed my previous posts make sure to check them out!

• Getting Started
• Getting Started Part 2
• Planning Ahead
• Methods & Styles
• Choosing Curriculum
• Gathering Curriculum
• Creating Lesson Plans Part 1
• Creating Lesson Plans Part 2
• Teacher Organization
• Student Organization
• Homeschool Storage Solutions
• First Day of School
• Teaching Multiple Grades
• Homeschooling with Babies & Toddlers
• Homeschooling Preschool
• Homeschooling Kindergarten & Elementary