Q: Can I begin homeschooling now? A: Yes, according to the homeschool law, parents may begin homeschooling after the August 15 deadline for two reasons: 1) if they move into a new school division, and 2) if they decide to homeschool after the school year begins. Virginia statute §22.1-254.1 (B) states: “Any parent who moves [...]

Q. I’m overwhelmed with negative comments and criticism from a close family member who does not support our decision to homeschool. How should I respond without creating more of a problem?   A. I am so sorry you are facing criticism about your decision to homeschool. Having relatives who support homeschooling is a blessing, but, [...]

Q. How do I place my child at the correct level for the upcoming year? Can I use an achievement test? A. Correct placement in the core skill subjects — language arts and mathematics – can be very helpful, but not always necessary. It will show strengths and weaknesses and identify learning gaps. I would [...]

The Virginia Homeschool Manual: A Comprehensive Guide to Home Education in Virginia on CD Retail price: $29.95 Now you can experience this comprehensive, easy-to-use manual in this convenient CD format! Find the answers to your homeschooling questions in just ONE searchable resource! Almost 1000 pages, this revised manual is the most complete, single reference on home [...]

by Vicki Bentley If you are considering home education, you are very likely a single income family, and if you’re like most of us, your budget is pretty tight. Although I have read that the average homeschool family spends about $500 per student per year, I have never personally spent nearly that much. My most [...]

by Vicki Bentley Good planning is the key to any successful road trip. This checklist will give you a basic overview as you prepare for your homeschool journey!   Research Homeschooling Read all you can about home education. [See list of suggested resources.] Consider subscribing to homeschooling publications. Attend a state convention (or obtain tapes [...]

By Vicki Bentley, www.everydayhomemaking.com You had a wonderful plan this fall for a well-rounded education, envisioning academic excellence and character development in your smiling, well-adjusted offspring. But then…It happened (pick one): Your husband got transferred, and you have now moved across country, separated from your family or community support system. Your husband has been deployed, and you [...]

By Vicki Bentley, www.everydayhomemaking.com A young mom writes: I’m new at homeschooling – I have 2-year-old twins. I want to teach them and get them ready for preschool. Please send me info to help me start off on the right foot. Another mom writes: I have a 3½- year-old boy, a 2½- year-old girl, and a 7-month [...]

By Vicki Bentley, www.everydayhomemaking.com Some of you who have heard me speak or have read some of my other works know that I have often been geographically challenged during the homeschooling journey, both figuratively and physically. As we come to the end (sigh) of our homeschool “road,” I couldn’t resist one last “travel” analogy! Imagine this [...]