Homeschooling in Pennsylvania
Here are some useful resources that may be helpful as you are getting started.
Power Homeschool’s Homeschooling in Pennsylvania site highlights resources, helpful tips, support groups, and so much more!
Homeschool Laws and Requirements in Pennsylvania
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 Pennsylvania
Some of the best resources to help homeschool families be successful are homeschool associations, support groups, and co-ops.
How to Start Homeschooling in Pennsylvania
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 Pennsylvania
The flexibility to go on more field trips is one of the many perks of homeschooling.
Find out what Pennsylvania has to offer!
Resources
Homeschool Laws and Requirements in Pennsylvania
Many states have rules and guidelines regarding parents homeschooling their children. Here are some links to help you find information regarding Pennsylvania.
Important Considerations for Homeschooling Success
Create a Study Plan
When homeschooling in Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania
Homeschool can be very daunting for first-time home educators. Luckily, homeschoolers in Pennsylvania have access to various support networks that provide resources, advice, and events.
In addition to associations, homeschool support groups and cooperatives offer additional support and guidance. Homeschool support groups either meet in person or operate online through Facebook or other forums, providing more informal advice and allowing families to meet other homeschoolers in the area. Homeschool cooperatives or co-ops are more academic-focused and provide homeschoolers the opportunity to learn in a group setting. Homeschool co-ops can be general, focus on a particular subject, or structure lessons around religious beliefs.
There are many homeschool co-ops in Pennsylvania, so you are sure to find one that suits your family’s needs. Most homeschool groups and cooperatives have Facebook pages, so a simple search will help you find the ones in your area.
Check out our Power Homeschool Parent Support groups!
How to Start Homeschooling in Pennsylvania
With the number of resources and support groups available in Pennsylvania, it is no wonder so many families are transitioning to home education every year. If you are considering homeschool for the first, you are probably wondering how to get started implementing an at-home education. The first step is always to do as much research as you can about the laws and regulations in the state to ensure you abide by all the rules.
In Pennsylvania, there is certain legal paperwork that you will need to fill out before you get started. You will also need to create a homeschool curriculum or select a program. Power Homeschool is an online curriculum that also provides various resources to parents and students to help them throughout their education. Learn more about how you can jump-start your homeschool journey with Power Homeschool!
Resources
Homeschool Field Trips in Pennsylvania
One of the many benefits of homeschooling is flexibility. Since homeschoolers are not confined to traditional classroom schedules, they can implement schedules that they prefer and make more time for more experiential learning. Field trips can enhance any homeschool curriculum, unit, or lesson.
- Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh: Explore dinosaur fossils, minerals and gems, Native American artifacts and much more at one of the best natural history museums in the country. Homeschool classes are available for students of all ages to explore the natural world.
- Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh: Learn about one of the most well-known artists in American history and participate in hands-on educational programs that put Andy Warhol’s methods into practice.
- Punxsutawney Weather Discovery Center in Punxsutawney: This center is dedicated to weather science and includes exhibits about weather forecasting technology, lightning, and weather emergency readiness. Educational programs and special events are also available to visitors.
- The Franklin Institute Science Museum in Philadelphia: Named after one of America’s first inventors, Benjamin Franklin, this museum is a perfect field trip for young scientists to learn about technology, visit the observatory, and experience a flight simulator.
- National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia: Explore and celebrate the history and culture of the Jewish community in America through various exhibits, programs, and educational opportunities. This museum is sure to inspire people of all backgrounds and heritages.
- Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia: Students can tour the building where the Declaration of Independence was signed and see the Liberty Bell firsthand. The Independence National Historical Park the perfect field trip to enhance any Revolutionary War unit.
- Museum of Indian Culture in Allentown: With guided tours and educational programs, students gain a new perspective of American Indian culture throughout the western hemisphere at the Museum of Indian Culture.
- Gettysburg National Military Park in Gettysburg: Homeschoolers can learn about the deadliest battle of the Civil War and tour the battlefield where it happened. A variety of special events are available, and Homeschool Days are held throughout the year.
- The State Museum of Pennsylvania in Harrisburg: Learn about the state’s rich history and culture with exhibits dedicated to Native Americans, Pennsylvania Icons, transportation, and much more.
- Valley Forge National Historical Park in King of Prussia: This park commemorates the sacrifices of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. Ranger programs, tours, and historical tales are among the many activities available to visitors.
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