Are you considering homeschooling for your child in Texas? Or, are you already a homeschool parent looking for a better curriculum and educational program?
Homeschooling in Texas means you have the freedom to give your child the educational experience they need to thrive.
When shopping for homeschooling programs, you should consider a few things, such as the price, subjects included, and the type of program.
Like most parents, you may be wondering, "Where do I even start?"
You've come to the right place.
We help families in Texas transition to homeschooling all the time.
We stay current on Texas's homeschool laws, which makes recommending programs compliant with the state easy.
In this article, you'll learn the different types of homeschool programs to help you decide which is best for you and your child.
Key Takeaways
- There are multiple homeschooling options (online, boxed, hybrid).
- Texas requires certain subjects to be taught in homeschooling.
- Your child's homeschool program should support their learning style and abilities.
Not All Homeschool Programs Are Equal
Just like anything else in the world, every homeschool program is different. There are a few types or programs that you should consider while choosing one for your child's education.
Online Programs
One of the most common learning programs is an online curriculum. Homeschooling is on the rise, and because of this, countless online programs are available for students all over the country, including Texas.
Now, we know what you're thinking. "I'm not sure my child will do well learning online..."
Try to disregard that way of thinking for a moment, there are many benefits of homeschooling your child online. These online programs are specifically designed with children in mind. You can find programs that use a variety of learning tools, teach lessons through engaging videos, and circle back on subject matter that your child needs a little more time on.
The great thing about online programs is they give you a hands-off approach to teaching while providing your kiddo with exactly what they need to stay focused and learn.
Many public schools also utilize online classes, so most children find the transition to online homeschooling comfortable and familiar.
Homeschooling programs in Texas, allow parents to personalize their child's education while ensuring compliance with state requirements. When choosing a curriculum, it's important for the home school education program to include the essential subjects that all Texas children must learn.
What are these subjects?
Texas homeschool law states your child is required to learn spelling, grammar, math, good citizenship, and reading. Every child must learn these subjects, whether they are enrolled in public or private school.
That's not so difficult, is it? In fact, most, if not all, homeschool programs will include most of these subjects.
Texas Virtual Academy
If you have a child who's in grades 3-12, consider checking out Texas Virtual Academy. This online Texas education agency is for children attending public or private schools, offering a comprehensive curriculum for students wanting a more career-oriented learning approach.
Their Stride Career Path includes career-focused electives in their school work, alongside other basic subjects, to set them on the path to success.
Texas homeschooling laws say that your child must receive a "written curriculum," and online programs are acceptable.
Texas Connections Academy
Texas Connections Academy is another excellent program for parents who want to teach their children valuable skills and hone in on their passions alongside the standard subjects required by the state. Unlike learning in a local school district, this online program is tailored to how your child learns best and continues to grow and evolve with them as they learn and progress throughout the work.
The program tests your child multiple times yearly to ensure they understand the material. They also set goals for your child to give you both something to strive for while you assist them.
Boxed Curriculum
A boxed curriculum is just how it sounds, a program that comes in a box; seriously!
These programs are available online for order and include just about everything you need to legally homeschool your child.
Some boxed curricula will include online resources, but with the freedom of homeschooling, you can choose to opt out of these or not, depending on your preferences. These programs offer resources for all the core subjects your child is required to learn.
What other subjects should you include?
Texas homeschool laws only have a few required subjects for your child, but it's still important to include other subjects, such as history or science, because many of these subjects are needed to enroll in most colleges.
BJU Press
For example, BJU Press is an online homeschool shop that lets you browse for the items you want to include in your child's learning program. You can choose between different video courses, textbooks, subject courses, and testing resources.
A boxed curriculum is a great option for anyone who wants a more traditional style of the learning experience for their child without having the bulk of their learning online.
Hybrid Programs
A Hybrid program is a possible option for Texas homeschooled students. Students transferring out of public school may need a slower transition into homeschooling. With a hybrid program, you can tailor your child's schedule to include traditional and non-traditional learning.
For example, homeschool groups or co-ops often teach small groups of kids independently in a classroom-like structure. These classes are still considered homeschooling and don't follow the set curriculum and structure of public schools.
You can allow your child to participate in some of these classes alongside their online program or boxed program and provide them with a comprehensive learning experience.
Involve Your Child
Before you begin homeschooling, consult with your child and get a sense of what they need to find success in their learning. Ask them important questions specific to different learning styles to ensure you choose one supporting their abilities.
Every homeschool curriculum program is unique, and with enough research, you can find one that is perfect for you and your child. If you're unsure, reach out to support groups for homeschooling families in your area and get advice on how to move forward.
The transition from public school to homeschooling can be a challenge for Texas families. But, with the right program, the transition can feel minimal, and with time, it becomes the best choice you've made in supporting your child's education.