Looking for an unbiased homeschool resource that doesn’t have a hidden agenda? You’ve come to the right place to learn how to homeschool in Maryland.
To homeschool in Maryland, a parent or guardian should become familiar with Maryland homeschooling laws and regulations. Families must decide on a curriculum that fits their needs and be prepared for the self-discipline required to maintain a robust academic schedule.
How to Homeschool in Maryland
Homeschooling is an option for parents who want to provide their children with a non-traditional education. If you are considering homeschooling your child in Maryland, here are some steps you can follow:
- Research the laws and regulations regarding homeschooling in Maryland. According to Maryland law, parents who choose to homeschool their children must follow certain requirements, such as maintaining attendance records and teaching a curriculum that is equivalent to that of a public school.
- Decide on a homeschooling method. There are many different approaches to homeschooling, including traditional, classical, Montessori, unschooling, and more. Consider what will work best for your child and your family’s needs and preferences.
- Create a schedule and plan for your homeschooling day. Determine how much time you want to spend on each subject and when you will do it. It can be helpful to create a daily or weekly schedule to help you stay organized.
- Obtain materials and resources. There are many resources available to homeschoolers, including textbooks, online courses, and educational websites. Determine what resources you will need to provide your child with a comprehensive education.
- Register with the Maryland State Department of Education. Parents who homeschool their children in Maryland are required to register with the state. To do so, you will need to submit a notice of intent to homeschool, as well as a list of the subjects you will be teaching and the materials you will be using.
- Stay in touch with other homeschooling families. It can be helpful to connect with other families who are also homeschooling their children. You can share resources, get support, and exchange ideas with other homeschooling parents.
I hope this information is helpful as you begin your homeschooling journey in Maryland.
Free Maryland Homeschool Programs
Maryland is an ideal place for homeschooling, as there are plenty of free and supportive programs to help parents. This makes educating a child less intimidating.
For any home learning requirement, there is a suitable option, from printable curriculum materials to Q&A on Maryland homeschooling, to cooperative learning programs or access to digital learning resources.
Maryland offers extracurricular activities and events for homeschoolers.
Maryland homeschool programs offer free resources, including online classes and teacher support, to help ensure your children receive an excellent education.
The Maryland Department of Education provides extra help for parents who are homeschooling in the state of Maryland.
Parents looking to homeschool can turn to the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) for information on Maryland laws, webinars, and helpful articles.
Between 2019 to 2020, the percentage of homeschooled students changed from 3.4% to 9%.
Does Homeschool Have to be Accredited in Maryland?
Do Maryland parents need to get their homeschooling program accredited? Not usually, as homeschooling is an independent education model not requiring external recognition.
Taking all this into consideration, parents should bear in mind that there can be advantages to seeking out accreditation and expert advice.
Participating in an accredited program can give families the resources to build a curriculum, as well as track their students’ growth through unbiased observations.
In the end, it’s up to the parent or family to decide if becoming accredited for their homeschool is worth the financial costs.
Maryland Accredited Homeschool Programs
Homeschools that are accredited must provide evidence of enrollment and attendance, maintain grades, administer state-approved assessments annually, have a responsible teacher with a high school diploma or higher, and stay on top of curriculum changes that are mandated.
Private schools accredited by the state must include appropriate laws and regulations within their admission policies to keep up with compulsory attendance requirements.
Through an accredited homeschool program, parents can provide their children with a high-standard education in the comfort of their own homes.
67% of the homeschooled students successfully graduate from college.
Create a Designated Learning Place
Homeschoolers should have a specific area set aside for learning, to help establish a daily routine and provide an environment where their child can concentrate on schoolwork.
A dining table is an ideal spot for studying. It’s easily cleared off at the end of each day which allows it to be used for eating as well.
You can also provide your child with their own desk in their bedroom for added privacy and the opportunity to decorate it. Whatever you decide, be sure to create an environment that helps them focus on learning.
Over 300 million students were homeschooled as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Stay On Track with a Daily Schedule
Sticking to a daily schedule for homeschooling has many advantages; here are some of them:
- Establishing a daily routine can help homeschoolers prioritize tasks, complete more in less time, and improve productivity. Families with multiple students or other outside commitments may particularly benefit from this strategy.
- Effective time management begins with planning. A daily schedule makes it easier to keep track of what needs to be done and when, and prevents feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Allocating specific blocks of time to tasks can help your family stay organized.
- Homeschooling can provide a sense of structure and regularity, especially beneficial for kids accustomed to attending a traditional school. This can make them feel safer and more prepared to learn.
- Families can benefit from daily schedules to stay accountable and meet their homeschooling objectives. This is important for those who tend to be easily distracted or delay their tasks.
- Having a daily schedule in place can facilitate better communication among family members, helping to avoid misunderstandings and building a stronger bond between them.
Ease Into It
Homeschooling for new parents can be a big shift, so it’s crucial to not apply excessive pressure from the start. It is best to ease into this transition and move forward at a steady pace.
Homeschooling parents can begin with just a few basic supplies and then build on their resources as they get more confident with the homeschooling process.
When it comes to homeschooling, there are numerous options, so you should find one that works best for your family. Don’t be afraid to venture out and experiment with different techniques; the less stressed you feel, the more successful your learning experience is likely to be.
Regardless of the educational level of their parents, homeschooled students score between 80% and 90%.
Involve Your Child in Setting Learning Goals
Involving your child in homeschool assignment planning and curriculum scheduling is important for several reasons:
- Offering students a sense of importance and ownership in their education will provide them with motivation and boost engagement.
- Involving them in the homeschool process will help them feel that they are part of it, rather than it being done to them.
- Getting your child involved in the homeschooling decision-making will give you a better understanding of their likes, talents, and shortcomings; allowing you to modify the learning environment to better accommodate them.
Generally, having your kid involved in homeschooling planning is key to a successful experience for everyone.
Explore Other Ways of Learning Outside the Classroom
Homeschooled kids have an advantage as they can explore many educational possibilities not found in a regular school. This helps them gain a diverse range of knowledge and experience, resulting in a more comprehensive education.
In many cases, homeschoolers benefit from strong connections in the community. These relationships can open doors to new learning opportunities, such as classes and workshops taught by experts or members of the community.
Parents who homeschool their children should seize these chances to broaden their kids’ education.
Homeschooling families can give their children a very enriching education by exploring different learning techniques.
Reach Out to Other Homeschool Families
Homeschooling can be difficult, especially for families without a support system. Luckily, there are various ways to make connections with other homeschoolers and build a community. One way is by connecting with local homeschooling organizations.
Homeschool groups can provide emotional support, practical advice from experienced homeschoolers, and opportunities for field trips and social interactions.
Joining an online forum or Facebook group is an excellent way to network with other homeschool parents.
Joining a parenting group can be helpful for exchanging resources, asking questions, and obtaining advice from parents who have the same experiences.
Making connections with other homeschooling families can help parents lessen the feeling of isolation and build a supportive environment for their kids.
When educated at home rather than in public schools, boys do 44% better on reading examinations.
Can Homeschooled Students Play Sports in Maryland?
The Maryland Public Secondary Schools Athletic Association (MPSSAA) Handbook prohibits homeschooled students from playing on public school sports teams, citing that only “bona fide students of that school” can participate.
Public school sports are not open to students who are taught at home, as they are not considered “true students” of the public school.
Even though certain homeschooled students may feel let down, they have plenty of other chances to join sports teams.
Private and homeschool-based sports leagues offer participation opportunities for homeschooled students. Additionally, many universities provide club sports teams that they welcome homeschoolers to try out for.
Consequently, while homeschooled learners cannot participate in interscholastic athletics teams of public schools, they can still remain physically active and involved in the realm of sports.
How to Homeschool When Both Parents Work
Maryland parents who opt to homeschool their children have to be creative with balancing work and school, as it is a difficult task.
With some ingenuity, it’s possible to work and homeschool at the same time. Let’s examine some pointers to help you achieve it.
Prior to February 2020, just 68% of parents who had homeschooled their children said it had been a success.
Get Your Childcare Involved
Some parents are lucky enough to have assistance in homeschooling while they’re away at work due to childcare.
When it’s not achievable or budget-friendly for all households, one should think outside the box to devise a plan that fits everyone’s needs.
Delegate Chores
Involving your children in household tasks is an effective method to reduce the strain you may be facing between work and homeschooling. It also provides them with an opportunity to learn about responsibility.
It’s prudent to be mindful of your child’s abilities. A five-year-old probably won’t be able to do the laundry, but they can lend a hand with things like dusting or laying the table.
As they age, give your children more chores. By involving them in household tasks, you can reduce your work while teaching them essential life skills.
Before the epidemic, 69% of homeschooled children expressed a desire to continue their studies in this manner for the upcoming school year.
You and Your Spouse Work Alternate Shifts
Balancing homeschooling with both parents working can be difficult, especially if you and your partner have alternating shifts. Here are some strategies to help make it work:
- It’s important to organize your week in advance by creating a schedule that includes all of your work hours and other responsibilities. This will help you plan effectively for homeschooling.
- Make use of online materials: Utilizing online components like lesson plans, videos, and virtual excursions can be a great way to supplement your kid’s schooling when you are not able to be with them in person.
- Be flexible with your homeschooling: If your daytime commitments don’t make 9 to 3 schooling feasible, think outside the box. For instance, you can do lessons at night or at the weekend. Or, break up the day into shorter chunks of time for educational activities.
- Ask for assistance: Don’t be scared to look for support when you need it. This could involve employing a tutor or nanny to aid with home-based instruction while you are busy, or requesting the aid of relatives and friends.
- Homeschoolers should be aware that it’s okay to take breaks. Finding a balance between work and homeschooling will help ensure that commitments are met on both fronts.
Homeschooling can be a tricky task if both parents are working. But it can be done with the right amount of planning and creativity, making it an enriching experience for the whole family.
Take Advantage of Online Curriculums
Homeschooling is a great option to personalize your child’s education, yet it can be difficult to fit work and school into one schedule. To make it easier, why not opt for an online curriculum?
Structured learning programs can assist your child in their development and ensure concentration while you are away.
Furthermore, online learning can be tailored to your child’s individual requirements, making it convenient to discover a course that suits their distinctive learning approach.
In their children’s upcoming academic year, 54% of parents who were homeschooling before February 2020 were likely to do so full-time.
Assign the Child Solo Activities to Do While You’re at Work
Parents in Maryland who teach their kids at home must find ways to keep their children entertained while they are working. One way is to assign independent curriculum projects.
Tasks such as reading assignments, research projects, and math and writing exercises may be included.
It’s essential to select activities that are suitable for your child’s age and skill level.
If your child attends childcare, ask your provider to remind them to complete their homeschooling tasks daily.
Proper planning can help your child become independent and accomplish tough tasks during the workday.
Allow Yourself Flexibility and Grace
Balancing a job and homeschooling can be difficult for parents, so it’s vital to give yourself some leniency and kindness while managing these duties.
Striving for perfection is an unattainable goal that can lead to disappointment. Focus on the successes, no matter how small, and congratulate yourself on your achievements.
Keep in mind that your kids are observing you, and will take after you. By displaying a positive outlook and openness to change, they’ll be more likely to do the same.
Balancing work and homeschooling can be difficult, but it also presents an excellent opportunity to impart valuable lessons to your children. Show them how to be adaptable and graceful in any situation, setting them up for victory down the line.
The typical cost of homeschooling is between $350-$750 per year for the parent(s).
Maryland Homeschool Curriculum Requirements
Maryland’s homeschooling legislation provides parents with great flexibility when creating an education program for their kids. They don’t have to adhere to any curriculum or meet any requirements.
Parents have the freedom to select the tools and teaching methods that suit their child’s requirements.
Homeschooling offers the advantage of allowing parents to design a curriculum that is customized to their child, which can be especially beneficial for kids with individual talents or passions.
Being a homeschool parent requires being organized and self-motivated to create and execute an education plan for their child.
Despite this, the option of choosing your own curriculum is an attractive benefit of homeschooling in Maryland.
Letter of Intent to Homeschool in Maryland
Maryland parents who wish to homeschool their children must file a Letter of Intent with the local school district, outlining details such as the child’s name, address and start date of homeschooling.
By submitting a Letter of Intent, home schooled learners can be monitored by the school district to ensure they are receiving quality education.
Some school districts may offer additional help for homeschooling families.
Consequently, it is essential for Maryland parents to submit a letter of intent when they first start homeschooling their child.
The federal government saves $24 billion in taxpayer money thanks to homeschooling.
Is the Maryland Homeschool Curriculum Free?
Maryland homeschoolers can find a lot of free lesson plans and activities online, but they may still need to spend money on textbooks, workbooks, and other educational supplies.
Families who opt for homeschooling can buy educational materials from businesses dedicated to homeschooling.
Busy families often choose curriculum packages because they include all the materials needed for a complete education.
When planning for homeschooling, families should consider budgeting for curriculum costs, which may vary according to their needs and preferences.
How Much Does It Cost to Homeschool in Maryland?
Families in Maryland who choose to homeschool can save money by selecting a curriculum and taking advantage of group discounts or sharing resources with other families who have multiple kids.
Furthermore, homeschooling can be cost-effective if families become resourceful with their educational resources.
It is possible to find free or low-cost textbooks, worksheets, and other resources online. As an example.
Factors like your goals and circumstances will affect the cost of homeschooling in Maryland.
A safe environment was cited as the main motivation by 50% of parents who homeschool their children.
How Many Days Are Required for Homeschool in Maryland?
Homeschooling is a flexible educational option that allows families to tailor their child’s education to meet their individual needs. In Maryland, homeschooling families are required to provide 180 days of instruction per year, although the days do not have to be consecutive.
Families can decide how to divide up the 180 days, and they can take into account holidays, weekends, and vacations when making their plans.
Although some homeschooling families choose to follow the traditional school calendar, others opt for a year-round schedule.
Ultimately, it is up to the family to decide what works best for them.
As long as the required number of days is met, homeschooling families have a great deal of flexibility in how they structure their child’s educational experience.
Maryland Homeschool Record Keeping
Maryland homeschool recordkeeping is important for several reasons. First, it provides a way for homeschool parents to keep track of their child’s academic progress. Second, it helps to ensure that the child is receiving a quality education by providing a record of what has been learned.
Finally, it can be used as a portfolio to show to colleges or employers.
Record keeping can be done in a variety of ways, but it is important to choose a method that works best for the parent and child.
Here are some things that are important to keep a record of during the homeschooling years:
- Test results
- Samples of your student’s academic work
- Documentation of the type of curriculum being provided to your child
- Dialog with state and/or school officials
- Attendance records
A good rule of thumb is to save these records for at least two years or longer if required.
By taking the time to develop and maintain good records, homeschool parents can give their children the best possible chance for success.
Test results, extracurricular activities, and socialization were mentioned as reasons for homeschooling by 14% of the parents.
Maryland Homeschool Graduation Requirements
The state of Maryland does not have a specific homeschooling requirement in place for a student to graduate. Graduation standards are set by the parents as the facilitators of their child’s education. Once the student accomplishes the expected milestones set forth by the parents, they will graduate.
Maryland Homeschool Diploma
For homeschooled students in Maryland, earning a diploma can be an even greater accomplishment. Homeschooled kids don’t have the structure of a regular school schedule, so they have to be self-motivated and disciplined to do well. A high school diploma is a symbol of hard work and dedication.
Earning a diploma shows that they have what it takes to set goals and achieve them.
In addition, a diploma for Maryland homeschoolers can open up new opportunities, such as colleges and scholarships.
For homeschooled students, a high school diploma is an important milestone on the road to success.
As of February 2020, at least 9 million Americans had been homeschooled at least once.
How Does a Homeschooled Student Get a Diploma?
Parents in Maryland who homeschool their children have the unique opportunity to be the sole provider of their child’s high school diploma. This means that they get to decide what criteria must be met in order for their child to earn the diploma.
Of course, parents will want to ensure that their child meets all the necessary requirements for graduation, such as taking required courses and passing exams.
However, they also have the freedom to tailor the curriculum to their child’s interests and learning style.
As a result, homeschooled students often emerge with a well-rounded education that prepares them well for success in college and beyond.
Before COVID-19, 42% of parents said they wished their kids had more freedom to pursue their hobbies.
Are Homeschool Diplomas Valid?
The homeschooling movement has been growing steadily in recent years, as more parents opt to educate their children at home. While homeschooling can provide a number of benefits, there is one potential drawback: homeschool diplomas may not be as recognized by colleges or employers.
Some institutions may require additional testing or coursework for homeschooled students, so students should be prepared to take some tests to show their level of academics.
It’s not uncommon whatsoever for homeschooled kids to be more academically advanced than their peers who attended a public school, so in the long run, homeschoolers are quite capable of holding the advantage.
However, it is important to note that homeschool diplomas are becoming increasingly common and should be accepted by most colleges and employers.
Over 300 million students were homeschooled as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Disclaimer
Although the information in this article was researched with the utmost integrity and sincerity, it cannot be held legally liable or expected to take the place of legitimate legal advice for your specific situation.
Trina Greenfield, Author
SmackDown Media LLC
LinkedIn
About the Author:
Trina Greenfield, the owner of SmackDown Media LLC, is passionate about providing information to those considering their educational options. Trina is a seasoned writer, content creator, and website owner with a passion for unbiased research, educational platforms for children and adults, as well as all things family-related.