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achievement. In every subject and at every grade level of the ITBS and TAP batteries, home schooled students scored significantly higher than their counterparts in public and private schools.

However, as home schooling becomes more popular with the availability of free online tutors, free computer equipment, and free educational material there are some things to consider before making a decision that may have an impact on your child for the rest of their life.

The first point to consider is a complete lifestyle change. Home schooling is a time consuming task. Remember, unless you can afford to hire a full-time tutor to help. You the parent accept the entire responsibility and work load for educating. If both parents work, that makes things even harder especially if your children are young. If you're planning on leaving your job, be prepared for the financial sacrifice that comes with it. Home schooling will leave little personal time for yourself. Between homework, field trips and housework. Tutoring your child at home becomes your "new" full-time job. (Hernandez)
A well organized schedule is a good place to start, before you become overwhelmed with it all. Another important point is that both parents are in agreement with this decision. If parents are in disagreement, the problems caused by this friction only stands in the way of the child's progress. If both parents are excited about home schooling the next question is: Will your child be as excited about it as you are? A willing student is helpful and avoids having to nail him or her to their desk and taking drastic measures to get the child to do their work. (Hernandez)

Time and time again people argue about the negative effect home schooling has on a child's social development and learning social skills with other children their own age. These kids are not "shut off" from the rest of the world. Home schooled children and parents can stay active by joining associations of other home schooled parents. This is the ideal way to set up field trips and other social events with your children. Remembering to take it one day at a time and that home schooling isn't a life time permanent commitment. Another point to consider is your own abilities, having the confidence that you can do well at teaching.

If after all the considerations, time, money and sacrifice you still would like to have a chance to make a difference in your child's life there are plenty of resources out there to help you get started, stay out of

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