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 New Hampshire.
To homeschool in New Hampshire, a parent or guardian should become familiar with the state’s homeschooling laws afnd 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 New Hampshire
To homeschool in New Hampshire, you will need to follow these steps:
- Notify your local school district in writing that you will be homeschooling your child. You must do this within 5 days of starting to homeschool.
- Develop a homeschooling plan. New Hampshire requires that you provide a “written statement of the proposed program of instruction.” This should include the subjects you will be teaching, the materials you will use, and the goals and objectives of your homeschooling program.
- Teach your child at home for at least the minimum number of days required by law. In New Hampshire, this is 180 days per year for children ages 6-16.
- Keep records of your child’s progress. You must keep attendance records and a portfolio of your child’s work.
- Administer standardized tests. New Hampshire requires that you administer a nationally recognized standardized test to your child at least once every three years, or provide an evaluation by a certified teacher or qualified education professional.
- Submit an annual evaluation. New Hampshire requires that you submit an annual evaluation of your child’s progress to the local school district. This can be in the form of a portfolio review, a standardized test score, or an evaluation by a certified teacher or qualified education professional.
Overall, homeschooling in New Hampshire requires some planning and organization, but it can be a rewarding experience for both you and your child.
Free New Hampshire Homeschool Programs
NH homeschooling offers families the chance to tailor their child’s education at home. With these programs, parents get access to quality curricula, instruction, and resources in order for students to have a great learning experience.
These programs allow families to set their own teaching schedules, choose the curriculum they prefer, and access educational resources suited to their student’s specific needs.
These programs provide a wealth of free lesson plans, supplementary activities, and materials – allowing parents to have peace of mind that their student’s education is comprehensive and at no cost.
Home-based learning in New Hampshire affords families the opportunity to develop a program that meets their unique educational requirements.
If you are homeschooling your child in New Hampshire, the New Hampshire Department of Education can provide additional support for parents.
For more on homeschooling, the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) offers useful webinars, articles, and updates about homeschool laws in New Hampshire.
Between 2019 to 2020, the percentage of homeschooled students changed from 3.4% to 9%.
Does Homeschool Have to be Accredited in New Hampshire?
In NH, homeschooling does not have to be certified. This unaccredited choice lets parents craft an education that is best suited to their child’s needs by creating their own curriculum or downloading one from a trustworthy source without having to abide by standards or accreditation guidelines.
In the end, the family will decide which option: accredited or unaccredited is best for their child.
In New Hampshire, research shows that successful outcomes have been attained even without stringent regulations in households that have opted for the unaccredited homeschooling route.
67% of the homeschooled students successfully graduate from college.
New Hampshire Accredited Homeschool Programs
To be accredited, homeschools must provide proof of enrollment and attendance records, maintain detailed grade records, administer yearly standardized tests approved by the state, have a supervising teacher with a high school diploma or equivalent, and keep up with mandated curriculum changes.
Private schools with accreditation must declare their adherence to legal standards in their admission policies to maintain conformity with state laws related to mandatory attendance.
Homeschooling is an option for parents to provide their children with a quality education in the comfort of their own homes.
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 New Hampshire?
According to New Hampshire RSA § 193:1-c, homeschooled students are given the same opportunities as public school students in regard to curricular activities, including sports. This is due to a special law that considers homeschoolers a part of the “public school” population.
Thus, homeschooled students can audition and take part in sports at nearby public schools. This law gives homeschooled students the same opportunities as other students, allowing them to compete for positions on sports teams.
Furthermore, this provides all New Hampshire students with the chance to be involved in athletics regardless of their educational background.
How to Homeschool When Both Parents Work
New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire 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).
New Hampshire Homeschool Curriculum Requirements
Homeschooling parents in New Hampshire have the freedom to decide on their own curriculum but must cover core topics such as reading, writing, math, science, social studies, and physical education.
Homeschooling allows families to tailor their education to specific areas, interests, and learning styles. Parents are able to customize their children’s curriculum to meet their specific needs.
Therefore, homeschooling is an effective way to teach kids from New Hampshire.
Letter of Intent to Homeschool in New Hampshire
The New Hampshire Department of Education mandates that parents who wish to homeschool their children must submit an annual “Letter of Intent to Homeschool” in order to be compliant with state standards.
By submitting a Letter of Intent, states can monitor the number of homeschooled children and make sure they are receiving a good education.
Homeschooling families can be provided with support and resources by the state through this process.
New Hampshire requires a Letter of Intent for homeschooled students to ensure they receive a quality education.
The federal government saves $24 billion in taxpayer money thanks to homeschooling.
Is the New Hampshire Homeschool Curriculum Free?
More and more families in New Hampshire are opting to homeschool their kids due to various explanations. One of the top worries for these families is the financial aspect of getting the curriculum and other necessary items.
You can look online to find various free homeschool curricula and resources. By looking around online, you can easily find free homeschool resources including lesson plans, worksheets, and curriculums.
Homeschooling families can take advantage of discounts and free memberships offered by educational institutions.
By investing a bit of effort and time, you can find all the resources necessary to homeschool your children without exceeding your budget.
How Much Does It Cost to Homeschool in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire families have the choice of sending their children to public, private, or home school. Homeschooling allows for a tailored education based on a child’s needs and interests but can be costly.
The expenses associated with homeschooling can vary, depending on how many children are being taught, the type of curriculum chosen, and whether a tutor is hired or online materials are used.
To reduce expenses, homeschooling families often take advantage of free or inexpensive resources, like books from the library or educational websites.
Homeschooled children can receive discounts on sports and other extracurricular activities in certain areas.
An economically viable choice for New Hampshire families, homeschooling can be accomplished with proper planning.
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 New Hampshire?
While the state of New Hampshire does not require attendance for a certain number of days or certain hours of the day, it’s advisable to maintain a consistent and structured schedule that is in the child’s best interest. A consistent schedule allows children to develop routines and habits that can help them be successful in school and in life.
It also helps them form positive relationships with their peers and teachers.
Furthermore, a structured schedule can help to prevent behavior issues by providing a predictable environment.
When choosing a schedule, it’s important to consider the needs of each individual child.
Some children thrive on having a lot of structure, while others need more flexibility.
Ultimately, the goal is to find a balance that meets the needs of the child and helps them to be successful in school.
New Hampshire Homeschool Record Keeping
New Hampshire state law requires that all homeschooling families keep records of their educational activities. These records must include a yearly evaluation of the student’s progress as well as a portfolio of the student’s work.
While keeping detailed records may seem like a daunting task, it is actually quite simple.
By taking the time to document your child’s learning experiences, you will be able to provide evidence of their educational progress in the event that you are ever questioned by the authorities.
Having a portfolio of your child’s work will give you a valuable keepsake to look back on in the future.
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.
Although it may take some effort to get started, homeschool record keeping is a vital part of ensuring that your child’s homeschooling experience is compliant with state law.
Test results, extracurricular activities, and socialization were mentioned as reasons for homeschooling by 14% of the parents.
New Hampshire Homeschool Graduation Requirements
The state of New Hampshire 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.
New Hampshire Homeschool Diploma
For homeschooled students in New Hampshire, 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 New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire 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.
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.