Homeschooling in Idaho
Here are some useful resources that may be helpful as you are getting started.
Power Homeschool’s Homeschooling in Idaho site highlights resources, helpful tips, support groups, and so much more!
Homeschool Laws and Requirements in Idaho
Each state has different rules regarding a parent’s ability to homeschool their children and all the laws that they must follow.
Homeschool Groups and Support in Idaho
Some of the best resources to help homeschool families be successful are homeschool associations, support groups, and co-ops.
How to Start Homeschooling in Idaho
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 Idaho
The flexibility to go on more field trips is one of the many perks of homeschooling.
Find out what Idaho has to offer!
Resources
Homeschool Laws and Requirements in Idaho
Many states have rules and guidelines regarding parents homeschooling their children. Here are some links to help you find information regarding Idaho.
Important Considerations for Homeschooling Success
Create a Study Plan
When homeschooling in Idaho, 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 Support & Groups in Idaho
At times throughout your student’s home education, you will likely have questions, need advice, or simply just want someone to talk to about the process.
Luckily, homeschoolers in Idaho have access to plenty of different types of groups and organizations, including homeschool associations, support groups, and cooperatives.
Homeschool associations are organizations that typically give legal advice, provide information and resources, and often sponsor homeschool events and conventions. In 2018, Idaho’s two homeschool associations, the Idaho Coalition of Home Educators (ICHE) and Christian Homeschoolers of Idaho State (CHOIS), combined to create Homeschool Idaho. In addition to various resources and events, the association hosts a homeschool graduation ceremony each May.
In addition to homeschool associations, Idaho home educators can join support groups and co-ops to enhance the homeschool experience. There are many different types of homeschool support groups, such as online forums or those that regularly meet in person. These groups are usually organized by the parents and allow them to share advice and homeschool experiences.
Like support groups, homeschool co-ops help enhance the homeschool process; however, they are more academic-focused. These volunteer-based groups provide homeschoolers with opportunities to learn in group settings and practice valuable skills, such as teamwork and communication. Some co-ops focus instruction on subjects or religious teachings, while others are general.
Whatever types of support group or co-op you are looking for, you are sure to find one that fits your family’s needs. Most of these groups have Facebook pages or websites, so you’ll be able to find what you are looking for with a simple search query. The following are just a few examples of the many different support groups and co-ops operating in Idaho:
Check out our Power Homeschool Parent Support groups!
How to Start Homeschooling in Idaho
Starting to homeschool for the first time can be nerveracking, but Power Homeschool’s guide to getting started with homeschooling can help any parent begin their homeschool journey. Once you determine you will be able to abide by the homeschool requirements in Idaho, you’ll need to submit the necessary paperwork.
Next, it will be important to create or select a homeschool curriculum that fulfills the subject requirements. Power Homeschool’s online homeschool curriculum offers courses for K-12 students and provides numerous tools that help parents and students transition to homeschool.
Join thousands of parents that homeschool with our self-paced, interactive courses.
Resources
Homeschool Field Trips Idaho
Field trips are a great way to enhance any lesson and allow students to see concepts come to life before their eyes. Homeschooling allows families to implement a more flexible schedule that allows for more experiential learning through field trips. Idaho is home to many different field trip destinations, such as national and state parks, museums, historical sites, and more.
The following are just a few examples to give Idaho homeschoolers field trip ideas in their state.
- Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge in Bonners Ferry: Homeschoolers can explore many different animal and plant species on the 2,774-acre refuge. This is a great way to learn about natural habitats and conservation of wetlands, meadows, forests, and more.
- Bonner County History Museum in Sandpoint: Visitors can learn about the region’s history and culture dating back to the Ice Age Floods. Guided tours and custom scavenger hunts are also available.
- Idaho Potato Museum in Blackfoot: This unique museum provides information about potato history, the revolution of the potato industry, and the growing and harvesting process. Visitors can also view the largest potato crisp and learn trivia and potato facts.
- Yellowstone Bear Worlds in Rexburg: As a drive-thru wildlife park, you can get up close with the wildlife of North America, including deer, goats, bison, and bears. There is also a petting zoo, amusement rides, and a gift shop.
- Minnetonka Cave in St. Charles: Exploring the Minnetonka Cave in St. Charles Canyon will enhance any lesson about geology or geography. Guided tours are available along with fishing and hiking.
- Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve in Arco: These landforms developed throughout thousands of years with a series of major eruptions. Today, students can explore the unique landscape through field trips and lesson plans about the geographic formations.
- Lemhi County History Museum in Salmon: Homeschoolers can learn about Lemhi Country history dating back to the 1800s. The museum highlights the birthplace of Sacajawea, mining communities, immigration, and former Wild West hub of the region.
- Zoo Boise: Students can discover many different exotic and domestic animal species, including boas, sloths, bald eagles, red pandas, and much more! With children and family programs, special events, and youth groups, students of all ages have plenty of opportunities to learn, explore, and get involved.
- Boise Art Museum in Boise: Students can explore their artistic side by touring different styles of art from around the world. Classes, workshops, and camps are available for homeschoolers to create their own art and experiment with different mediums.
- Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park in Idaho Falls: Home to animal species from around the world, this zoo is a great field trip for students learning about wildlife, ecosystems, and habitats. With educational opportunities, family programs, and special events, the zoo offers fun for the whole family.
- Idaho Museum of Natural History in Pocatello: Located on Idaho State University’s campus, students can learn about natural history through various exhibits and special events. Field trips are available for groups as small as five students.
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