
Ready to take the leap into homeschooling in Indiana but feeling a bit overwhelmed? Homeschooling in Indiana is a great option for families who want more flexibility and control over their child's education.
However, it can be challenging to know where to start. You might be wondering about things like the homeschooling laws, how to choose a curriculum, and where to find support.
This blog will help you get through the process of starting homeschooling in Indiana. We'll explain the legal requirements in simple terms and provide you with helpful resources and information. We'll also discuss how to create a learning environment that meets your child's needs and helps them thrive.
By the end of this blog, you'll have a better understanding of how to homeschool successfully in Indiana.
To begin, we will first discuss Indiana homeschool laws.
Understanding Indiana Homeschooling Laws
Indiana has homeschooling laws that are pretty relaxed, giving you lots of freedom to choose how you want to teach your child. But it's still important to understand the basic rules before you start your journey.
You don't have to officially tell the state that you're homeschooling. You can just start teaching your child at home whenever you're ready. This means you don't have to fill out any complicated paperwork or get permission from the state to start homeschooling.
2. Required School Days
You need to teach your child for at least 180 days each year. This is the same number of days that kids go to public school. You can choose how you schedule these days, whether it's a traditional Monday-Friday schedule or something more flexible.
3. School Year
The school year in Indiana runs from July 1st to June 30th. This is the official time period for homeschooling, just like in public schools. If your child was in public school for part of the year, those days count towards your 180 days.
4. Teach in English
You need to teach your child in English, which is the official language of the state. This ensures that your child can communicate effectively and participate fully in society. Using English as the primary language of instruction helps your child develop strong language skills and prepares them for future opportunities.
5. Choose Your Own Curriculum
You can choose whatever curriculum and teaching methods you want. You don't have to follow what the public schools are doing. This gives you the freedom to personalize your child's education based on their interests and learning style.
Indiana's homeschooling laws are designed to give you a lot of flexibility and freedom. By understanding these laws, you can create a homeschooling experience that works best for your family.
If you're curious about how preschool education compares around the globe, check out our blog, Top 10 Countries Providing the Best Preschool Education in the World. It’s a great resource to see what top countries are doing to support early learning.
Now that you’re familiar with the homeschooling laws in Indiana, you can shift your focus to setting up your homeschool. Start by creating a schedule and choosing a curriculum that works best for your family.
Setting Up Your Homeschool in Indiana: Schedule and Curriculum
Once you understand the homeschooling laws in Indiana, it's time to start planning your child’s homeschooling! This involves creating a schedule and choosing a curriculum that works for your child and your family.
1. Withdrawing from Public School
If your child is in public school: Let the school know that you're going to homeschool your child. It's best to do this in writing, like a letter or email, so you have a record of it. This lets the school know that your child will no longer be attending and helps with their record-keeping.
High school students: If your child is in high school, you might need to fill out a special form called "Withdrawal to Non-accredited Nonpublic School Located in Indiana." This form helps the school district keep track of how many students are leaving to homeschool.
If your child has never been to public school: You don't need to do anything to withdraw them. You can simply start homeschooling whenever you're ready.
2. Creating a Schedule
Be flexible: You get to decide when and how much you homeschool each day. You can create a schedule that fits your family's needs and your child's learning style. For example, if your child is a morning person, you might want to do schoolwork earlier in the day.
Include breaks: Make sure your child has plenty of time for breaks, playtime, and getting exercise. This will help them stay focused and avoid getting burned out. Breaks can be short, like 10 minutes to stretch and have a snack, or longer, like an hour to play outside or read a book.
3. Choosing a Curriculum
Lots of choices: You can choose any curriculum you want! You can use textbooks, workbooks, online programs, or even create your own lessons based on your child's interests. There are so many options available, so do some research and find what works best for your family.
Find what works best: Think about your child's learning style and interests when choosing a curriculum. Some children learn best by seeing, others by hearing, and others by doing. Choose materials and activities that will keep your child engaged and excited about learning.
Want a homeschool curriculum that's as unique as your child?
We get it - choosing a homeschool curriculum can feel like trying to find a needle in a haystack! There are so many options out there, and it can be tough to know where to start. But what if you could find a curriculum that's flexible, engaging, and adaptable to your child's unique interests and learning style?
That's where The School House Anywhere (TSHA) comes in! Our American Emergent Curriculum (AEC) is designed to make learning an adventure with hands-on activities, creative projects, and lessons that spark curiosity.
Here's what makes the AEC different:
It's flexible and fun! The AEC is packed with hands-on activities, creative projects, and engaging lessons that will capture your child's imagination. Say goodbye to boring worksheets and hello to learning that feels like play!
It follows your child's lead. We believe that children learn best when they're genuinely interested in what they're studying. The AEC allows you to adapt the curriculum to your child's unique interests and needs.
It connects learning to the real world. We help children see how their learning applies to their everyday lives, making education more meaningful and relevant.
It's screen-free. While we recognize the value of technology, we also believe in the power of hands-on, screen-free learning. The AEC encourages children to explore the world around them through real-life experiences, not just screens.
Ready to transform your homeschool into a learning adventure?
4. Finding Support and Resources
HSLDA: The Home School Legal Defense Association can help you with any legal questions you have about homeschooling. They can also provide you with resources and support if you ever have any problems with the school district.
IAHE: The Indiana Association of Home Educators is a great place to connect with other homeschooling families and find support. They often have events, workshops, and online forums where you can meet other homeschoolers and share ideas.
Indiana Department of Education: The Indiana Department of Education has resources for homeschooling families, including information for parents of children with special needs. They can help you find resources and support for your child's unique needs.
Online Communities: You can also find helpful information and support in online homeschooling communities. There are many Facebook groups, forums, and websites where you can connect with other homeschoolers and get advice and encouragement.
By following these steps, you can create a homeschooling experience that is fun, engaging, and successful for your child.
Once your schedule and curriculum are in place, it’s important to keep track of progress and plan for graduation.
Keeping Records of Homeschooling in Indiana
Keeping good records is an important part of homeschooling in Indiana. These records can help you see where you've been, where you're going, and what you've learned along the way. Here's what you need to know:
Why Keep Records?
Show Your Child's Progress: Records help you see how your child is doing and what they have learned over time. You can look back at their work, test scores, and projects to see how much they've grown and where they might need extra support.
Prove Your Child is Learning: If anyone ever asks about your homeschooling, you can show them your records to prove that your child is getting a good education. This might be a school official, a family member, or even a court if there's ever a question about your homeschooling.
Help with Future Plans: Good records can also help your child if they want to go back to public school or apply for college. Colleges and universities often want to see what courses a student has taken and how they did in their homeschool.
What Records Should You Keep?
Attendance: Keep track of the days your child does schoolwork. This shows that your child is getting a consistent education and helps you meet the state's requirements for instructional hours.
Grades and Courses: Keep track of the subjects your child is studying and the grades they are earning. You can use a traditional gradebook, a spreadsheet, or even a simple notebook to keep track of grades.
Work Samples: Keep examples of your child's work, like writing assignments, tests, and art projects. This helps you see their progress and provides a showcase of what they've learned.
Other Activities: You can also keep records of any other educational activities your child participates in, like field trips or extracurricular activities. This shows that your child is getting a well-rounded education and exploring their interests.
How to Keep Records
Choose a method that works for you: You can use a notebook, a computer program, or even a simple calendar to keep track of your child's learning. Find a system that you're comfortable with and that you can easily maintain.
Stay organized: Make sure your records are organized and easy to understand. Use folders, labels, and dividers to keep everything in order.
Wish homeschool record-keeping was less of a headache?
Let's be honest, nobody likes drowning in paperwork! But keeping track of your child's homeschooling journey is important. That's where Transparent Classroom, a tool by The School House Anywhere (TSHA), comes in. It's like having a personal assistant for your homeschool, helping you stay organized and keep track of everything in one easy-to-use platform.
Here's how Transparent Classroom can simplify your life:
No More Paper Pile-Ups: Say goodbye to those overflowing file folders and messy binders! Transparent Classroom lets you store all your important homeschooling documents in one secure and easy-to-access place.
Effortless Tracking: Upload assignments, track grades, and add notes about your child's progress with just a few clicks. You can even create beautiful online portfolios to showcase their work and celebrate their achievements.
Stress-Free Reporting: Need to generate reports for your state's homeschooling requirements? No problem! Transparent Classroom makes it super easy to create customized reports with just a few clicks.
Ready to say goodbye to homeschooling chaos and hello to organized bliss?
Homeschool Graduation
You decide: You get to decide when your child is ready to graduate from high school. You can base this decision on their academic progress, their maturity level, and their future goals.
Diploma options: You can give your child a homeschool diploma, or they can take the Indiana High School Equivalency exam to earn a state-accredited diploma. You can also create a personalized graduation ceremony to celebrate their achievements.
For more details on how to create or obtain a homeschool diploma, don’t miss our blog, How to Get a Homeschool Diploma: A Comprehensive Guide. It covers everything you need to know to make this milestone special and official.
Planning for the Future
College or Career: If your child wants to go to college, make sure you understand the requirements and keep good records that will help them apply. You might need to provide transcripts, test scores, and other documentation.
Going Back to Public School: If your child wants to return to public school, your records can help with proper grade placement. They can also ensure your child receives credit for the work they’ve completed in your homeschool. This can make the transition smoother for your child.
Work or Military: If your child wants to get a job or join the military, having good records can help them show what they've learned and what skills they have. This can make them more competitive in the job market.
By keeping good records and planning for the future, you can help your child succeed in their homeschooling journey and beyond.
While staying organized is key, connecting with other homeschool families can provide additional support and inspiration.
Connect With Other Homeschoolers in Indiana
Homeschooling doesn't have to be a solo journey! It's like being part of a team – you can share ideas, get support, and learn from each other. Connecting with other homeschooling families in Indiana can provide you with valuable resources and a sense of community.
Statewide Organizations
IAHE and IHEN: As discussed before, these organizations are like big clubs for homeschoolers in Indiana. They offer helpful resources, like newsletters and websites with information about homeschooling.
They also offer discounts on curriculum and other homeschooling materials, which can help you save money. They also work to protect homeschooling rights in the state. That way, you can homeschool without worrying about unnecessary rules and regulations.
Local Groups and Co-ops
Find your tribe: Look for local homeschooling groups in your area. These groups often have meetings, events, and field trips where you can meet other homeschooling families and make new friends. It's a great way to connect with people who understand homeschooling.
Co-ops for shared learning: Homeschool co-ops are groups of families that get together to teach their children some subjects. This can be a great way for your child to learn from different teachers and socialize with other kids. Co-ops can also be helpful for parents, as they can share the teaching responsibilities and learn from each other.
Fun activities: Many homeschooling groups organize fun activities for kids, like field trips, art classes, and sports teams. This can help your child explore their interests and make new friends.
If you're looking for even more options to connect with homeschooling families in Indiana, be sure to check out our blog, Indiana Homeschool Groups: A Comprehensive Guide. It’s packed with information about statewide organizations, local groups, and co-ops to help you find your perfect community.
Support for Everyone
Parent support: Connecting with other homeschooling parents can provide you with emotional support and encouragement. You can share ideas, ask questions, and get advice from people who understand what you're going through. Homeschooling can be challenging at times, and it's helpful to have a support system.
Learning from each other: Homeschooling groups can also be a great way to learn about different homeschooling methods and resources. You can learn about different curriculums, teaching styles, and how to make learning enjoyable.
Online support: You can also find support online through homeschooling forums and social media groups. These online communities can be a good idea to connect with homeschoolers from all over the state and even the country.
Connecting with other homeschooling families allows you to build a supportive and engaging learning environment for your child. It’s an opportunity to exchange ideas, share resources, and develop a strong sense of community.
Joining a homeschool network is just the beginning. Indiana offers many resources and events to enrich your homeschooling experience.
Exploring and Learning: Resources and Events for Indiana Homeschoolers
Homeschooling isn't just about staying at home! Indiana offers many exciting resources and events that can make your homeschooling experience even better.
Connect with Other Homeschoolers
Conventions and Fairs: Attend homeschooling conventions and fairs to connect with other homeschooling families, learn about new resources, and get ideas for your homeschool. These events are like big parties for homeschoolers!
Go on Field Trips
Make learning fun: Field trips are a great way to make learning fun and exciting. You can visit museums, historical sites, and other interesting places in your community.
Explore Indiana: Indiana has many great places to visit, like botanical gardens, planetariums, and the Indianapolis Cultural Trail.
Learn about history and science: You can also visit places like Conner Prairie and the Indiana Historical Society to learn about history, Wonderlab, and the Children's Museum of Indianapolis to learn about science.
Virtual field trips: If you can't go on a real field trip, you can always take a virtual field trip online! Many museums and other places offer virtual tours that you can watch from home.
Get Active with Sports
Homeschool sports programs: There are many sports programs designed just for homeschoolers. These programs give your child a chance to play sports, make friends, and learn about teamwork.
Sports organizations: Some popular homeschool sports organizations in Indiana include
Indy Genesis
Circle City Cougars Volleyball
Indy Metro Mustangs
Living Water Marlins
NIHSA Vectors Baseball & Softball
National Flag Football
By taking advantage of these resources and events, you can create a rich and engaging homeschooling experience for your child.
Wrapping Up
Homeschooling in Indiana offers a wonderful opportunity to create a personalized and enriching educational experience for your child. By understanding the state's requirements, choosing the right curriculum, and connecting with supportive resources, you can embark on a successful homeschooling journey.
Remember to stay flexible, embrace the freedom that homeschooling provides, and enjoy this special time of learning and growing alongside your child.
Want to homeschool in Indiana but not sure where to start?
We get it! Homeschooling can be a big adventure, but it's also a journey with its own unique set of challenges. The School House Anywhere (TSHA) is here to help you overcome those challenges and create a homeschooling experience that's both joyful and successful for your family.
Here's how TSHA can support you on your homeschooling journey:
Understand the Rules: We provide resources and guidance on homeschooling laws and regulations in different states, including Indiana. You can be sure you're meeting all the requirements and dotting those i's and crossing those t's!
Innovative Curriculum: Our American Emergent Curriculum (AEC) is packed with hands-on activities, creative projects, and engaging lessons that will capture your child's imagination. We believe that children learn best when they're actively involved in their education, exploring their passions, and making connections to the real world.
Get Expert Advice: Our team of experienced educators is here to answer all your questions and give guidance whenever you need it. Think of them as your homeschooling cheerleaders, ready to offer support and encouragement every step of the way.
Connect with Your Community: Join our vibrant online community of homeschooling families in Indiana and across the country. You can ask questions, share your experiences, and find inspiration from others who understand the joys and challenges of homeschooling.
Make it Affordable: We believe that a high-quality education should be available to everyone. That’s why we have flexible plans to make payments and scholarships to help make our programs more affordable.
Discover the joy of homeschooling in Indiana with the right support.
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