Homeschooling in California
Here are some useful resources that may be helpful as you are getting started.
Power Homeschool’s Homeschooling in California site highlights resources, helpful tips, support groups, and so much more!
Homeschool Laws and Requirements in California
Each state has different rules regarding a parent’s ability to homeschool their children and all the laws that they must follow.
Homeschool Associations and Support Groups in California
Some of the best resources to help homeschool families be successful are homeschool associations, support groups, and co-ops.
How to Start Homeschooling in California
If you have decided that homeschool is a good fit for your family, you are probably wondering how to get started with the whole process.
Field Trips Available to Homeschoolers in California
The flexibility to go on more field trips is one of the many perks of homeschooling.
Find out what California has to offer!
Resources
California Homeschool Laws and Requirements
Many states have rules and guidelines regarding parents homeschooling their children. Here are some links to help you find information regarding California.
Important Considerations for Homeschooling Success
Create a Study Plan
When homeschooling in California, it is important to establish a clean environment where distractions are limited for your child to study on a regular schedule. Study routines are valuable for learning discipline. They also help your child stay on track with weekly, monthly and yearly academic goals. Create a schedule and expect your child to stick to it. Modify the schedule when necessary to help your child stay challenged while still able to achieve your expectations.
Read more: 10 Tips to Effectively Homeschool Online
Build Foundational Knowledge
As your child progresses in their studies, addressing gaps in their foundational knowledge will be crucial to their future success. For example, if your child struggles with basic math, it may become nearly impossible for them to master more advanced math concepts until they get help with their basic math challenges. In Acellus courses, Vectored Instruction automatically takes into account a student’s existing knowledge gaps and provides targeted interventions to bridge those gaps. If a student lacks the foundational understanding required for the new concept, the system automatically provides relevant remedial content before proceeding further.
It is crucial that students achieve early success with online learning so that their confidence will grow. Sometimes it may be necessary to place your child into an earlier course so they can begin experiencing success before they are ready to start moving forward with their learning.
Read more: Helping Your Student Excel in Acellus
KEEP RECORDS AND DOCUMENTATION
You should keep thorough records of your child’s education. This will be beneficial when they apply for colleges or jobs after high school. Power Homeschool’s online parent portal automatically makes it easy to track progress, download coursework examples, attendance, and keep transcripts of classes taken.
It is also a good idea to get student ID cards and parent/teacher ID cards. Many retailers and venues offer teacher or student discounts that can be claimed by showing ID cards. A professional student ID card with a good quality identification photo included is also an good way to show that your student is enrolled is a reputable homeschool program.
Resources
Homeschool Associations & Support Groups in California
One of the reasons homeschooling has been on the rise is the number of resources and support groups available to homeschool parents and students. California has no shortage of homeschool associations, support groups, and co-ops.
Homeschool associations are available to provide support, legal advice, and other resources for families that choose at-home education for their children. California has three statewide homeschool associations.
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- California Homeschool Network (CHN) is a secular homeschool association. Membership perks include discounts for events and publications, quarterly newsletters, access to their Facebook group, store discounts with ID cards, and updated information about homeschool regulations in California.
- HomeSchool Association of California (HSC) offers information and legal advice to every homeschooler, whether they are a member or not. However, members do receive additional resources, such as discounted registration to the annual conference and special access to events.
- Christian Home Educators Association of California (CHEA) is a non-profit that provides information, support, and training to homeschoolers based on Christian values. Members receive free or discounted registration to the annual convention, newsletters, and discounted membership to HSLDA.
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In addition to homeschool associations, many parents choose to join homeschool support and co-ops. Usually created by several parents, these networks allow parents to share information, advice, and resources. Both group types can usually be found on Facebook with a simple search of your city or region. Homeschool support groups offer regular activities for parents and students, such as field trips, book clubs, and other special events. Co-ops are typically more focused on academics and may offer weekly learning opportunities. In co-ops, parents often alternate teaching either general subjects or have a more specific focus like STEM or fine arts.
Both homeschool support and co-op groups are available based on students’ age and interests as well as family values. These networks are also great ways for students and parents to meet other homeschool families in their area.
Check out our Power Homeschool Parent Support groups!
How to Start Homeschooling in California
If you are considering homeschool for your child, you are probably wondering how to get started. California has more factors to consider than most states. First, you will need to decide on the method of at-home education that will work best for you and your family. Based on this decision, your next steps may be different.
If you choose the at-home private school route, you will need to select a homeschool curriculum or create one yourself. Power Homeschool’s online K-12 curriculum has many resources for parents and students to make the transition process as easy as possible.
Join thousands of parents that homeschool with our self-paced, interactive courses.
Resources
Homeschool Field Trips in California
Homeschoolers have more flexibility around schedules, which means they can take more time to go on field trips. Since California is one of the largest states in the United States for both population and geographical area, there are many destinations to choose from. The following are just a few examples of the many field trip options available to California homeschoolers.
NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
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- Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento: Students can view some of the finest pieces of art in the world and create their own with various guided tours and kids’ programs.
- California State Capitol in Sacramento: Tour the California State Capitol building, learn about the state’s history and government, and discover how the youngest members of society can help improve California.
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BAY AREA
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- Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco: This museum remembers an artist that continues to impact our culture today. Exhibits share the story of Walt Disney as well as his original sketches, creative process, and much more.
- Bay Area Discovery Museum in Sausalito: Homeschoolers can let their imaginations run wild with various programs, events, and activities. The museum’s exhibits provide STEM-focused experiences to even the youngest learners.
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CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
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- Yosemite National Park in Mariposa County: Visitors of this national park have no shortage of activities for the whole family.
- Fresno Zoo in Fresno: With almost 200 different species, the Fresno Zoo is a great field trip for animal lovers to learn about natural habitats and environment conservation.
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GREATER LOS ANGELES METRO
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- USC Pacific Asia Museum in Pasadena: Learn about the arts and culture of Asia and the Pacific Islands through rotating exhibits and hands-on learning opportunities.
- The Hollywood Museum in Los Angeles: With the most extensive collection of Hollywood memorabilia, this museum will be a favorite for young performers or playwrites. View costumes, props, photographs, and scripts from some of the most famous films and TV shows in American history.
- Kidspace Children’s Museum in Los Angeles: Made up of mostly outdoor exhibits, programs, and monthly events, Kidspace encourages children to explore natural environments, investigations, and artistic expressions.
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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
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- San Diego Air & Space Museum in San Diego: As one of the largest aviation museums in the nation, young explorers can tour exhibits and galleries and attend special events and summer camps.
- San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum in Escondido: Young learners get to use their natural curiosity to learn about new concepts and ideas through hands-on exhibits, free and group play, field trip workshops, and seasonal camps.
- The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens in Palm Desert: Get up close with various wildlife and plant species with behind-the-scenes tours, petting zoos, hiking trails, and so much more.
- The Sawdust Factory in Upland: As a perfect place for aspiring artists, this field trip allows both kids and adults to explore their creative sides. Make woodcrafts and experiment with colors through field trips, homeschool programs, and other learning opportunities.
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