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Curriculum Recommendations to Home School in NC: A Detailed Guide


home school in nc

Feeling overwhelmed by the thought of choosing an online homeschool curriculum in North Carolina? It can be a daunting task.


You want to find an online homeschool program that helps your child learn and grow, but you also want them to enjoy it and have fun! With so many programs to choose from, it can be hard to know which one is the best fit for your child and your family.


This blog will help you choose the right online homeschool curriculum for your child. We'll explain the homeschooling laws in North Carolina and talk about some of the best online programs available. We'll also give you tips for making online homeschooling a success.


By the end of this blog, you'll feel confident about choosing an online curriculum that meets your child's needs and helps them learn and grow.


First, let’s understand why it is a good idea to homeschool your children in North Carolina.


Why Choose Online Homeschooling in North Carolina?


Online homeschooling in North Carolina offers a fantastic blend of flexibility, personalized learning, and support. It's like having a customized education that fits your child's needs and your family's lifestyle! Here are some key reasons why you might want to consider this approach:


1. Flexibility and Convenience

  • Scheduling Freedom: Online homeschooling allows students to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule, accommodating family commitments and individual learning styles. This means you can adjust the school day to fit your family's activities, appointments, and travel plans.

  • Mobility: Students can access their lessons from any location with an internet connection, making it easier to travel or manage other responsibilities. You can learn at home, at the library, or even on vacation!


Want a homeschooling experience that's flexible and adaptable to your family's needs?


The School House Anywhere (TSHA) offers a curriculum you can modify based on your schedule and your child’s learning style. Our American Emergent Curriculum (AEC) is designed to be adaptable to different learning styles and paces so you can create a learning experience that's just right for your child.


You can choose which activities to do, change the order of lessons, and even add your own ideas and resources to make the curriculum your own.

Learn More About The School House Anywhere!


2. Personalized Learning Experience

  • Customized Curriculum: Families can tailor educational content to fit their child's strengths, interests, and needs. This customization allows for more effective learning outcomes. It offers a contrast to traditional settings, where everyone learns the same material at the same pace.

  • Individual Attention: With a lower student-to-teacher ratio, online homeschooling often provides more direct support from educators, enhancing the learning experience. This means your child can get more one-on-one help if they need it.


3. Supportive Educational Environment

  • Access to Qualified Teachers: Many online programs in North Carolina offer instruction from state-licensed teachers. This ensures that students receive quality education and guidance. This can give you peace of mind, knowing that your child is learning from qualified professionals.

  • Community and Resources: Enrolling in an online school can connect families with a community of educators and other homeschooling families. It can also provide additional support and resources. You can connect with other families online or even in person through meetups and events.


4. Legal Compliance and Structure

  • Regulatory Framework: North Carolina has established clear guidelines for homeschooling. That includes requirements for curriculum and record-keeping, which help parents homeschool their children effectively. This provides a structure for your homeschooling and ensures that you're meeting the state's requirements.

  • Public School Benefits: Some online programs are publicly funded, allowing families to access high-quality educational resources without incurring tuition costs. This can be a great option for families who are looking for a more affordable homeschooling option.


5. Enhanced Family Connections

  • Stronger Family Bonds: Homeschooling develops closer relationships as parents engage more deeply in their children's education, leading to enhanced family dynamics. You can spend more time with your child, learn alongside them, and create a stronger bond through shared learning experiences.


Online homeschooling in North Carolina offers a blend of flexibility, personalized education, qualified support, and community resources. That can significantly benefit students and families alike. This approach is particularly appealing to those who prioritize individualized learning experiences within a structured framework.


Now that you understand the benefits of homeschooling, it’s time to focus on how to choose the right curriculum for your family’s needs in North Carolina.


Choosing the Right Homeschooling Curriculum in North Carolina


Choosing the right online homeschooling program for your child in North Carolina is an important decision. You'll want to consider several factors to find a program that meets your child's needs and helps them succeed. Here are some key things to think about as you explore your options:


1. Understand North Carolina Homeschool Laws

  • Definition of Homeschool: In North Carolina, a homeschool is defined as a non-public school consisting of children from no more than two families. In this, parents determine the scope and sequence of academic instruction. This means you have the freedom to choose what your child learns and how they learn it.

  • Compliance: Make sure any online program you choose lets you stay in control of your child's education. Enrolling in programs where the school dictates the curriculum might not comply with state laws. You want to make sure you're still in charge of your child's education, even if they're learning online.


For a deeper understanding of North Carolina's homeschool laws and how they apply to online programs, check out our blog, Understanding North Carolina Homeschool Laws and Requirements. It’s a helpful guide to ensure you’re meeting all the state’s requirements while providing your child with a flexible education.


2. Evaluate Online Program Options

  • Accreditation: Be aware that homeschools in NC cannot be accredited. Some online schools may claim they provide accredited instruction, but this does not apply to homeschools. Accreditation is a process that schools go through to show that they meet certain standards, but it's not required for homeschools in North Carolina.

  • Types of Programs: Consider different types of online schooling:

    • Fully Online Programs: These offer complete online curriculums and instruction from licensed teachers. This means your child will do all their learning online.

    • Hybrid Models: These combine traditional and online learning, allowing for flexibility while still providing some structured classroom experience. This means your child might do some of their learning online and some in a traditional classroom setting.


3. Assess Curriculum Choices

  • Curriculum Flexibility: Look for programs that allow you to customize the curriculum based on your child's interests and learning pace. Many online platforms offer self-directed learning options that can be beneficial for motivated students. This means you can choose what your child learns and how fast they learn it.

  • Support Services: Evaluate whether the program provides additional resources, such as tutoring, counseling, or community support, which can enhance your child's educational experience. These services can help your child succeed in their online learning environment.


4. Consider Enrollment Procedures

  • Local School Districts: If you want your child to take classes through local school districts while maintaining homeschool status, be mindful of limitations and tuition responsibilities. You might need to pay tuition for your child to take classes through the public school system.


5. Community Resources and Support

  • Connect with Other Homeschoolers: You can join local homeschooling groups or online forums where you can get valuable support from other homeschooling families. This can be a great way to get advice, share ideas, and find encouragement.

  • Legal Resources: Familiarize yourself with resources provided by organizations like Parents for Educational Freedom in North Carolina. They can offer guidance on homeschooling laws and best practices. They can help you understand your rights and responsibilities as a homeschooling parent.


If you’re looking for detailed information about homeschool testing requirements in North Carolina, be sure to check out our blog, North Carolina Homeschool Testing: A Guide for Parents. It’s a great resource to help you stay on top of testing obligations and ensure compliance with state laws.


By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about online homeschooling. This ensures that your choice aligns with both your educational philosophy and North Carolina’s legal requirements.


With so many options available, finding the perfect curriculum can feel overwhelming.


5 Best Homeschool Curriculums in North Carolina


There are some excellent curriculums available that provide comprehensive and engaging lessons and support for both students and parents. Here are 5 of the best homeschooling programs in North Carolina.


1. The American Emergent Curriculum (AEC) by The School House Anywhere

The American Emergent Curriculum (AEC) by The School House Anywhere

The AEC is a unique and innovative approach to education that puts children at the center of their learning journey. It's designed to be flexible and responsive to each child's individual interests, needs, and developmental stage. Instead of following a rigid, pre-set curriculum, the AEC encourages exploration, discovery, and hands-on learning.


The AEC is a child-centered curriculum where learning is driven by the child's interests and questions. Teachers and parents act as guides, providing support and resources to help children explore their passions and delve deeper into subjects that excite them. That's the essence of the AEC.


  • Why You'll Love It

    • It's child-centered: The AEC puts your child's interests and passions first. This means they'll be more engaged, motivated, and excited to learn. Lessons and activities are tailored to what your child finds interesting, making learning more meaningful and enjoyable.  

    • It's flexible: No more rigid schedules or one-size-fits-all lessons. The AEC allows you to adapt the curriculum to your child's pace and learning style, making it perfect for homeschooling. You can speed up or slow down as needed, and you can even change the order of lessons to fit your child's interests.  

    • It's inquiry-based: The AEC encourages children to ask questions, explore, and discover answers for themselves. This develops a love of learning and helps them develop critical thinking skills. They'll learn to think like scientists, historians, and artists, not just memorize facts.  

    • It's hands-on: Children learn best by doing! The AEC incorporates lots of hands-on activities, experiments, and projects, making learning come alive. This could include anything from building models to conducting science experiments to creating artwork.  

    • It's interdisciplinary: Subjects are woven together in a meaningful way, showing children how different areas of knowledge connect and relate to each other. This helps them see the big picture and understand how the world works.  

    • It's creative: The AEC encourages creativity and self-expression through art, music, movement, and storytelling. Children express themselves in a variety of ways, which helps them develop their imaginations and confidence.  

    • It's community-oriented: The AEC builds a sense of community and encourages collaboration and communication. This can be especially important for homeschoolers, who might not have as many opportunities to interact with other children.  

    • It's supported by research: The AEC is based on years of research in child development and education, ensuring that it's a truly effective approach to learning. It's designed to help children learn and grow in a way that is natural and developmentally appropriate.  

    • It's comprehensive: The School House Anywhere provides a wealth of resources and support to help you implement the AEC in your homeschool, including detailed curriculum guides, training videos, and a supportive online community. You'll have everything you need to get started and be successful with the AEC.  


Time4Learning

This program has lessons for all grades, from preschool to 12th grade. The lessons are online and interactive, which means your child can click, drag, and play games to learn. 


They follow North Carolina's learning standards, so you can be sure your child is learning what they need to know. It also has printable worksheets for extra practice and automatically grades your child's work, which can save you time.

  • Why you may like it: It's easy to use, engaging for kids, and you can try it out month-to-month to see if it's a good fit for your family.


3. K12

. K12

K12 offers different online homeschooling options. You can opt for a full-time virtual school where your child attends online classes with other students. Alternatively, you can choose individual courses to supplement your current homeschooling program.


They have online lessons, activities to do at home, and teachers to help your child. They have both free and paid programs, so you can find an option that fits your budget.

  • Why you may like it: It gives you lots of choices and has support from teachers who can answer your questions and help your child if they need it.


 North Carolina Virtual Public School

This is a free online school for kids in North Carolina. They have online classes for all grades, from kindergarten to 12th grade. The teachers are certified by the state, which means they have the qualifications to teach in North Carolina's public schools.


  • Why you may like it: It's free and follows North Carolina's curriculum, so you can be sure your child is learning what they need to know. It's also a good option if you're looking for a more structured online learning environment.


Power Homeschool

This program has online lessons for all grades. It uses videos and activities to teach, and your child can learn at their own pace. This means they can move quickly through lessons they understand and spend more time on lessons they find challenging.


They also have teachers and advisors to help if your child needs extra support or if you have questions about the program.

  • Why you may like it: It has interesting lessons that can keep your child engaged, lets your child learn at their own speed, and offers support if you need it.


Once you’ve chosen a curriculum, setting yourself up for success is the next step. Let’s explore some practical tips for thriving in an online homeschooling environment in North Carolina.


Tips for Online Homeschooling Success in North Carolina


Online homeschooling can be a fantastic option, but it requires a bit of planning and organization to make it work smoothly. Here are some tips to help you and your child succeed:


1. Create a Dedicated Learning Space

Set up a quiet and comfortable space in your home where your child can focus on their online lessons. This could be a desk in their bedroom, a corner of the living room, or even the kitchen table.

Make sure the space is well-lit, free from distractions, and has all the necessary materials, like a computer, headphones, and any textbooks or workbooks.


2. Establish a Consistent Routine

Just like in a traditional school, having a regular routine can help your child stay focused and motivated. Set a schedule for completing lessons, taking breaks, and engaging in other activities. This helps create a sense of structure and predictability.


3. Monitor Screen Time and Breaks

While online learning is engaging, it's important to balance screen time with other activities. Encourage your child to take regular breaks to stretch, move around, and rest their eyes. You can also incorporate offline activities, like reading books, playing games, or spending time outdoors.


Want to balance screen time with hands-on learning?

The School House Anywhere (TSHA) believes in the power of hands-on, screen-free learning.

While we recognize the value of technology, we also understand the importance of balancing screen time with activities that encourage real-world interaction, creativity, and social connection.


Here's how TSHA promotes screen-free learning:


  • Hands-on Activities: Our curriculum is packed with hands-on activities, experiments, and projects that get children engaged and learning through doing.

  • Nature-Based Learning: We encourage children to explore the natural world, go on nature walks, and learn about the environment around them.

  • Creative Expression: We provide opportunities for children to express themselves through art, music, and movement.

  • Social Interaction: We encourage collaboration and teamwork, helping children develop social skills and learn from each other.


Ready to create a learning environment that balances technology with screen-free exploration?

Learn More About The School House Anywhere!


4. Encourage Social Interaction

Even though your child is learning online, it's important for them to have opportunities to socialize with other children. This could be through online forums, virtual study groups, or in-person activities like homeschool co-ops, sports teams, or community events.


5. Stay Organized and Track Progress

Keep track of your child's assignments, grades, and progress. Many online homeschooling programs have built-in tools for tracking progress. However, you might also want to use a planner, a spreadsheet, or other organizational tools.


This helps you stay on top of your child's learning and identify any areas where they might need extra support.


6. Utilize Support Services Offered by the Curriculum Provider

Many online homeschooling programs offer additional support services, such as tutoring, counseling, or technical support. Don't hesitate to reach out to these services if you or your child needs help. They are there to support you on your homeschooling journey.


Wrapping Up

You've now learned about the benefits of online homeschooling in North Carolina and explored some of the top curriculum choices available. Remember that the best online program is the one that fits your child's learning style, your family's needs, and your homeschooling goals.


Take your time to research different programs, try out demos, and ask questions. With a little planning and effort, you can create a successful and rewarding online homeschooling experience for your child.


Want to give your child an online homeschooling experience that sparks their love of learning?


The School House Anywhere (TSHA) offers a refreshing approach to online homeschooling in North Carolina. We combine the flexibility of online learning with the engagement of hands-on activities and the support of a vibrant community.


Here's how TSHA can help your child thrive:

  • Discover their passions: Our curriculum encourages children to explore their interests and learn in a way that feels natural and exciting. We believe that learning should be an adventure, not a chore!

  • Develop essential skills: We help children develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and a love of learning that will last a lifetime. These skills will help them succeed in school and in life, no matter what path they choose.

  • Connect with others: Our online community provides opportunities for your child to connect with other homeschoolers, share ideas, and build friendships. It's a great way for them to meet other kids who are learning in a similar way and share their homeschooling experiences.

  • Learn at their own pace: Our flexible curriculum adapts to your child's unique learning style and pace. It allows them to learn and grow in a way that feels comfortable and engaging. This means they can spend more time on subjects they find challenging and move more quickly through subjects they enjoy.


Ready to give your child an online homeschooling experience that's as unique as they are?







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