Cannot find all the answers you need to begin homeschooling in Illinois? Homeschool resources and regulations for Illinois can be difficult to find. That’s why we have compiled a list of 5 must-need resources for you to start on your journey.
How to start homeschooling in Illinois
There is not much you have to do in order to teach your child at home. All you have to do is:
- Withdraw your child from school. While this is not a legal requirement, it is best to do this to avoid truancy.
- Choose the curriculum you would like to use. Mixing and matching is often the best method because it lets you tailor a program to fit your child’s needs.
Homeschooling in Illinois laws
This state is a low-regulation state. This means that there are not as many requirements as other states have when it comes to teaching your child at home. The main guideline that homeschooling in Illinois requires families to follow is that the following subjects must be taught:
- mathematics
- biological and physical sciences
- language arts
- social studies
- fine arts
- physical education and health
Beyond what subjects should be taught to your child, there are no legal specifications on how you are to go about building your child’s curriculum or doing their assessments.
If you would like to learn about this more in-depth, you can read more about the laws of teaching your child from home here.
Homeschooling in Illinois associations
There are two statewide organizations here.
The first association is called Illinois Christian Home Educators (ICHE). This faith-based group offers a beginner’s packet for getting started, a network of religious homeschool support groups, and a large number of events every year.
The second association is called the Illinois Home Oriented Unique Schooling Experience (H.O.U.S.E). This is a non-religious group that is widely inclusive. Their main focus is to update their members with any law changes. They also provide information on getting started, teaching children with special needs, and much more.
Registering as a member of an association is a huge help to any parent who wants to teach their own child.
Homeschooling in Illinois groups
You don’t have to go about this alone. Homeschooling is extremely popular in Illinois. When it comes to local support groups, there are hundreds throughout the state.
It is important to keep in mind that many groups will have a specific focus. Some of these groups will be religion-based, while others may be concentrated on a specific style of teaching. This is so they can assist you better.
Most groups have moved their platform over to Facebook. You can simply search “homeschool groups” and find ones near you or online with the convenience and ease of Facebook’s search system.
If you cannot find a local option near you, you can also opt for a virtual group for families educating at home. A notable one is Time4Learning.
Homeschooling in Illinois coops
When you first think of teaching your child at home, local homeschool coops are not always on your radar. Coops are extremely beneficial. By joining one, it can open doors for your family.
These groups supply resources that are often too expensive for families to buy on their own. Not only do coops minimize your overall expenses, but they also allow your children the socialization that they are missing by not going to a traditional school.
If you believe you are interested in joining a coop, you can be referred to one by your association or find one through Facebook.
With these requirements and resources in mind, you now have the proper tools to begin your adventure into teaching your child from home.
