Homeschooling in Iowa
Here are some useful resources that may be helpful as you are getting started.
Power Homeschool’s Homeschooling in Iowa site highlights resources, helpful tips, support groups, and so much more!
Homeschool Laws and Requirements in Iowa
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 Iowa
Some of the best resources to help homeschool families be successful are homeschool associations, support groups, and co-ops.
How to Start Homeschooling in Iowa
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 Iowa
The flexibility to go on more field trips is one of the many perks of homeschooling.
Find out what Iowa has to offer!
Resources
Iowa 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 Iowa.
Important Considerations for Homeschooling Success
Create a Study Plan
When homeschooling in Iowa, 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 Iowa
One of the most valuable resources to homeschoolers is the support groups and networks that offer advice, tips, legal guidance, events, and so much more.
Iowa homeschoolers can join a statewide homeschool association called Homeschool Iowa: Network of Iowa Christian Home Educators. The association provides various resources to help parents get started as well as an annual conference, special events, and a magazine. While homeschool associations are typically non-profit organizations that provide structured support, homeschool support groups and cooperatives are options to get even more help.
Homeschool support groups come in many different sizes and structures. Some have regular in-person meetings, while some communicate primarily online. These support groups also allow homeschool students of all ages to meet peers and get to know other homeschoolers in their area.
Homeschool co-ops are similar to support groups; however, they function to provide more academic-focused support. Co-ops are volunteer-based and usually require parents to take turns providing instruction to the group. Other co-ops may hire a tutor. These groups are great for students to participate in group learning and practice valuable skills like teamwork and communication. Co-ops can either be general, focus on a particular subject, or build instruction around religious teachings.
Whatever you are looking for, you are sure to find a homeschool support group or co-op in Iowa that aligns with your family’s needs and values.
The following are just several examples of the many different groups in Iowa:
Check out our Power Homeschool Parent Support groups!
How to Start Homeschooling in Iowa
Making any decisions about your child’s education is never something that comes easily. Once you officially decide to transition to homeschool, you’ll probably be wondering how to get started. For Iowa families, the first step to transitioning to homeschool is choosing one of the four homeschool methods. Next, you need to select a homeschool curriculum or create one that covers the required subjects of language arts and reading, mathematics, science, and social studies.
Power Homeschool is an online homeschool curriculum for K-12 students and their parents. In addition to the courses, homeschoolers have access to a variety of tools through our program. These resources are carefully designed to help homeschoolers throughout their homeschool journey.
Resources
Homeschool Field Trips in Iowa
Field trips are an excellent way to engage in hands-on experiential learning and see lessons come to life. The Hawkeye State has no shortage of museums, zoos, historical sites, and much more to choose from. Some of these field trip destinations even have special offers or programs for homeschoolers.
To give homeschoolers in the state ideas for field trip destination, the following are just a few examples of what Iowa has to offer:
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- LaunchPad Museum in Sioux City: With plenty of hands-on, interactive exhibits, the LaunchPad Museum is the perfect field trip for educational play. Homeschoolers can learn about agriculture, culture, science, and more!
- Prairie Pedlar in Odebolt: Students can explore seven acres of gardens and learn about various plant species. The garden’s Green Team Kids Club occurs each summer and introduces gardening to young students and encourages a love for nature.
- Carnegie Cultural Center in New Hampton: Learn about culture and history by touring numerous exhibits, such as the Railroad Room, Uncle Joe’s Farm, and Jerry’s World. The cultural center also hosts special events throughout the year.
- Crystal Lake Cave in Dubuque: Students can mine for gems at one of Iowa’s hidden treasures. Since it opened in 1868, these caverns have been the perfect place to learn about geology and landforms.
- Dubuque Museum of Art in Dubuque: Students can learn about art and culture by touring pieces from across the country. With tours, family programs, and youth camps, this museum offers plenty of opportunities for homeschoolers to explore their creative sides.
- The Fish Aquarium and Hatchery in Guttenberg: Homeschoolers can learn about freshwater species and learn from the biologists on-site at this aquarium. Field trips are available with educational activities and seasonal opportunities.
- Old Fort Madison in Fort Madison: Learn about Fort Madison’s role in the War of 1812. With school and group tours and special events, Old Fort Madison is a great field trip to learn about American history.
- Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines: Students can explore over 100 different animal species. This zoo offers homeschool classes that consist of hands-on lessons, games, art, and explorations. Safari camps and scout troop programs are also available.
- Des Moines Art Center in Des Moines: With modern and contemporary artwork from around the world, this museum is an excellent way for homeschoolers to explore their artistic sides. Classes and tours are available for students of all ages.
- Union Pacific Railroad Museum in Council Bluffs: Homeschoolers can learn about the Transcontinental Railroad and the impact this form of transportation had on the expansion of the U.S. This museum provides guided tours and student programs for children of all ages.
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