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set of books because they were just too easy. We went through several curriculums until we found one that both challenged me and was written in a manner in which I could understand it.

A common misconception amongst those unfamiliar with homeschooling is that the children only learn "the 3 R's". There are many extra subjects available, such as language studies, accounting and business math, theology, computer studies and more. Some places even have online correspondence classes. Others use computer-based curriculum. If you choose to use a computer-based program, don't forget to have your child practice his penmanship with real pen and paper.

Some states have statewide homeschooling associations that host fairs for homeschooling parents. There you can look at a number of different curriculums and talk to other parents who are homeschooling their children. You can also find out about extra-curricular activities for homeschooled children.

The number one question I was asked as a homeschooled child was, "Oh, so you don't have a social life, then?" Social interaction is just as important as a book education in a child's developing years. The lack of social interaction as a child can lead to a number of problems. The child, when suddenly faced with society, has the potential to withdraw into himself. A child cannot grow up to be a productive citizen if he spent his childhood being sheltered from his peers. However, the myth that most homeschooled children are socially retarded is false. While there are many homeschooled children in that situation, you will find that they are the minority. There are several ways for homeschooled children to have a healthy social life. If you go to church, try to get your son or daughter active in the church's youth programs. Look for co-ops or homeschooling groups in your area. Some homeschooling groups swap teaching assignments. Maybe one parent in the group is better at math while another is better with English. The homeschool groups I was involved in as a child went on field trips together. Every month we had two activities: one fun, one educational. So in a given month we might go rollerskating on one day. For the next field trip we would visit a museum or tour a factory to see how products were made.

Above all, and I can't stress it enough, if you decide to homeschool your child make sure you can be there. You cannot balance a full-time job with homeschooling if you plan on doing it alone. You may have the best of intentions, but it just will not work. If ever there comes a point during your child's school years that you feel you can no longer do it, then don't. Send them back to school. Children cannot be expected to stay home by themselves all day and teach themselves while you're at work.

Always remember that their education should be your first priority. Make sure that you don't overload yourself with too many responsibilities. Sometimes staying at home can be boring and stressful and you just need a break. There is nothing wrong with volunteering and helping friends and neighbors in your community, but never let it get in the way of your child's education. I have seen too many children whose education's have been neglected because their parents were to busy helping other people. If your kids need you, you have to be there.

Learn more about this author, Michelle Hozey.
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