Homeschooling for moms in mississippi

Aug 14

Homeschooling in Mississippi: A Guide for Moms

Hey there, fellow moms! If you’re reading this, you’re probably considering (or maybe already) homeschooling but aren’t sure where to start or looking for some more resources to help support you as you launch into a new school year.

I totally get it – the idea can seem overwhelming. As a homeschooling mom of five and a former teacher, I’ve been where you are.

Homeschooling has been an incredible journey for our family, filled with flexibility, growth, and lots of learning. In this blog, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get started on your homeschooling adventure (it’s actually a lot easier than you may think)!

Why Choose Homeschooling?

Homeschooling offers a world of benefits. It allows for a flexible schedule that can adapt to your family’s needs. You can tailor the curriculum to fit your child’s learning style and interests, providing one-on-one attention that traditional schools often can’t. Plus, it creates wonderful opportunities to strengthen family bonds.

Homeschooling may not be for everyone, but for our family it has allowed us to share more family experiences, travel more, and even do simple things like spend more time outside since homeschooling can happen wherever you are.

Mississippi Homeschool Laws

First things first: let’s talk about the legal stuff. In Mississippi, homeschooling is completely legal and really simple.

Here are the key points:

● Compulsory Attendance Age: Children between the ages of 6 and 17 must be enrolled in “school”. Meaning that if you want to start homeschooling in Kindergarten, you don’t have to do any notification or record keeping until your child reaches the age of 6.

● Notification Requirements: The only requirement in the state of Mississippi is that you need to submit an annual enrollment in a Home School Attendance Record (HSAR) to your local school attendance officer by September 15 each year. It’s a really simple form that takes less than 5 minutes and can be found here. You’ll just submit that to your local neighborhood public school and they will submit it for you or ask that you forward it to another representative.

It’s as simple as that! Make sure to keep a copy of your HSAR form and any correspondence for your records.

Getting Started: Steps to Begin Homeschooling

Now, let’s break down the steps to get started:

1. Decide on Your Homeschooling Approach: There are various approaches, from traditional to eclectic to unschooling. Explore each to find what fits your family best.

Also consider the types of homeschooling you would like best since you’ll be the primary person guiding your child’s education, you’ll want to ensure it’s something that you would enjoy too.

2. Withdraw from Public or Private School: If your child is already enrolled, inform the school of your decision to homeschool.

3. Submit the HSAR Form: This is your official notice of homeschooling and must be submitted by September 15th each year..

4. Keep Attendance Records: While Mississippi doesn’t require detailed records, it’s a good habit to maintain.

Choosing Curriculum and Educational Resources

Choosing a curriculum can be daunting, but it's also exciting! Here are some common options:

● Boxed Curriculum: These are comprehensive and easy to follow. You would be the teacher, however boxed curriculums usually have easy to follow lessons and sometimes have video based lessons to supplement lessons as well. Abeka and Sonlight are two pretty common faith-based options.

● Online Programs: Websites like Time4Learning and Khan Academy offer flexible and interactive courses that your child can do at their own pace. You can also find comprehensive programs where they offer interactive lessons or classes with a teacher and possibly with other students as well, like Dailies Pods, or individual classes on a platform like Outschool.

● DIY Approach: Mix and match resources to create a customized curriculum. Libraries and educational websites are invaluable here. You can also mix and match boxed curriculum with online learning options too. There is no “right” or “wrong” way to homeschool since the method you use for your family is unique to you and your children.

If you have a child with special needs, there are plenty of resources and support available. Look into programs specifically designed to support special education, like Dailies Pods, where they can provide you with access to additional resources and specific guidance based on your child’s learning needs.

Creating a Homeschool Environment

Creating a dedicated learning space can make a big difference in your success. It doesn’t have to be a large space, it can even be the dinner table, but find a spot in your home where you can set up supplies and materials.

Organize your space to suit your routine – whether that’s a cozy corner of the living room or a dedicated room.
Establish a daily routine that works for your family, balancing structured learning with free play and exploration. Here is a quick guide on recommendations for the maximum amount of time spent on learning based on child developmental research:

Ages 3-7: 1-2 hours per day

Ages 8-10: 2-3 hours per day

Ages 11-13: 3-4 hours per day

Ages 13-18: 4-5 hours per day

For our family, we have set up individual work spaces throughout our home, but also have a communal area or “home base” for all things homeschooling. Since our children sleep in a little bit, we don’t typically start our day until around 9:00 AM and we are wrapped up before lunch, except for days when we have outings planned in the afternoon.

Finding a schedule that works

for your family is key and remember that just because the traditional school day is 6-7 hours does not mean that that has to be your day at home.

Finding Support and Community

Homeschooling doesn’t mean you’re alone! Mississippi has a vibrant homeschooling community. You can join local homeschooling groups and co-ops for support and social interaction, but your children will also get social interaction from joining sports teams, church, and even regularly attending a homeschool group at your library. Online forums and social media groups can also be great places to connect with other homeschooling families.

Look out for local events and meetups – they’re fantastic for both you and your kids.

Balancing Homeschooling with Daily Life

Juggling homeschooling with daily life can be tricky, but it’s doable with a bit of planning. Here are some tips:

● Time Management: Create a schedule that includes school time, chores, and downtime. Flexibility is key!

● Life Skills: Incorporate chores and life skills into your curriculum. Cooking, gardening, budgeting, and grocery shopping are valuable lessons.

● Self-Care: Don’t forget to take care of yourself. Make time for your own hobbies and down time- however that looks for you!

Extracurricular Activities and Socialization

Socialization is a common concern, but there are plenty of opportunities outside the classroom.

Look into local sports teams, art classes, and music lessons. Volunteering is another fantastic way for kids to socialize and learn valuable life skills. Arrange playdates and social activities with other homeschooling families to keep the social calendar buzzing.

Check out your local homeschooling groups on social media or even the weekly activities posted by GCM for more opportunities to get out of the house, explore, and socialize with new friends.

Keeping Track of Progress and Records

Assessing your child’s progress doesn’t have to be stressful. Here’s how you can keep track:

● Assessment Methods: Use a mix of quizzes, projects, and informal assessments.

● Portfolios: Keep a portfolio of your child’s work throughout the year. It’s a great way to see their progress and celebrate achievements. This is my FAVORITE strategy! I have a file bin for each of my children and just sort their school work as they complete it. Some homeschooling programs also include reports that you can print to save in their portfolio as well.

● Standardized Tests: These aren’t required in Mississippi, but you can choose to haveyour child take them for your own peace of mind.

Homeschooling is a journey filled with challenges and rewards. Remember, you don’t have to have it all figured out right away. Flexibility and patience are your best friends. Embrace the journey, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support when you need it.

You’ve got this, mama!