4 Alternatives to School For Kids Of All Ages

3. Traditional Homeschooling

Traditional homeschooling is a growing choice in Australian families, particularly as the internet has opened the doors of free education to a larger number of people. Now, it’s so easy to find materials and curriculum ideas online, as well as groups of homeschooling parents struggling with the same issues and providing simple solutions.

Usually, traditional homeschooling involves kids being taught from a curriculum of their parent’s creation. In some states, this curriculum will need to mirror the state’s curriculum, but not always. Kids learn at home, with parents being free to tailor the learning materials to suit their child’s learning style and interests. This can be a lot of work for parents, but many enjoy the challenge and the rewards of educating their own children.

Traditional homeschooling is a bit of a tricky beast in Australia. It is the law in this country that all children be educated, and that parents have a responsibility to ensure their child goes to school. There are still some challenges involved with gaining official permission to homeschool, with parents often feeling under scrutiny when they’re just starting out. For this reason, an increasing number of parents are choosing to illegally homeschool. At Stay At Home Mum, we recommend having a talk to the education department in your state, who will be able to tell you what you can do to start as a home schooler. Going it illegally may result in fines and problems for your child in the future.

4. Cooperative Homeschooling

In a similar stye to traditional homeschooling, cooperative homeschooling has really taken off in America, where many parents from the same areas are choosing to homeschool their kids. In addition to their home-based curriculum, these homeschooling communities get together to share projects, presentations, ideas and even excursions on a regular basis. In some areas, parents even swap homeschooling duties, taking on other children in the community for a day of lessons or a planned project, and then having another homeschool teacher do the same.

For many families, it takes the isolation out of the homeschooling equation. Although the movement is still relatively new in Australia, it is growing. Have a look on Facebook for homeschooling groups in your area and connect with other mums and dads on a homeschooling journey. You and your child may find lifelong friends and support.

There are so many other options out there for kids who don’t fit into the school system, or for parents who feel that they might have a bigger impact on their child’s education by schooling them in a different way. We hope that this list has given you some ideas on where to begin on your education journey.

What method do you prefer for your child?