According to Alberta Education, there were 21,131 students enrolled in homeschooling programs during the 2022–2023 school year. Since more parents are opting to educate their children at home, this number keeps increasing year after year.
Homeschooling in Alberta has steadily increased over the past 40 years, going from an unconventional K–12 educational strategy to a program of choice protected by the Education Act. In this alternative educational approach, parents oversee organizing, carrying out, and supervising their children's education, and the majority of learning occurs outside of an institutional setting. More than one-third of all Canadian students who were homeschooled in 2019 were enrolled in Alberta.
According to a Public School Board study homeschooling parents are primarily driven by five main factors: religious motivations, pedagogical or academic concerns, dissatisfaction with traditional schools, desire to strengthen family ties, and practical reasons based on various life circumstances.
Where to start?
1.Research Local Laws:
Before beginning homeschooling, it's important to become familiar with the rules and laws that apply in your nation, state, or region. Make sure you adhere to all legal requirements because requirements and procedures can differ greatly.
2.Curriculum and Learning Resources:
Choose or create a curriculum that fits your child's learning preferences and interests. There are many different homeschooling curricula available, from more structured to less rigid methods. Your child's educational journey can also be supported by a number of online resources, educational websites, and neighborhood libraries.
3.Create a Learning Environment:
Set up a quiet, designated area of your home where your child can concentrate on their studies.Consistent and well-organized surroundings can boost focus and productivity.
4.Establish a Schedule:
Plan out your homeschooling activities on a daily or weekly basis.Maintaining a routine can help you feel normal and make sure you cover all the necessary material.
5.Join Homeschooling Groups:
Look for local or online communities for homeschoolers where you can meet other families who are also homeschooling their children.These groups can offer beneficial resources, opportunities for social interaction, and support.
6.Promote Socialization:
Your child doesn't have to miss out on social activities just because you're homeschooling them. To help your child socialize with other kids, look for local homeschooling cooperatives, sports teams, art classes, or other extracurricular activities.
7.Assessment and Progress Tracking:
Consider various techniques to evaluate your child's development, including recurrent exams, projects, or portfolios.This will enable you to assess their academic progress and spot potential problem areas.
8.Flexibility and Adaptability:
One of the benefits of homeschooling is the freedom to modify your lesson plans to accommodate your child's particular needs and rate of learning.Accept flexibility and make adjustments as needed.
9.Ongoing Learning for Parents:
If you are homeschooling your children, it is essential that you keep learning and expanding your knowledge of various subjects and instructional strategies.To support your professional development as an educator, a wealth of online and printed resources are available.
10.Remain Positive and Patient:
Homeschooling can be difficult at times, but try to maintain a positive attitude and patience.Celebrate your child's accomplishments and remain flexible if something doesn't seem to be working.
Never forget that every child is unique, and what works for one family might not work for another.Make any necessary modifications to your homeschooling plan to take into account your child's preferences and abilities.
We at "Flying Minds" are aware of what Albertan homeschooling families are required to do.You may enroll your children in the homeschooling support program we provide during the regular school day at our center in Calgary or online.