Are there any parents in New Jersey who homeschool?

Question

I am giving serious thought to homeschooling my daughter in September. I don't know anything about getting started or about what the laws are in New Jersey. What is the best cirriculum to use? Do I need to check in with someone to report my daughter's progress? I have so many questions. I just need to be pointed in the right direction. My daughter was in a Christian School where she did the Accelerated Christian Education Paces. Does anyone use them for homeschooling? Any help would be so greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

I think you'll be happy with your decision to homeschool!  We take it one semester at a time, but love it so much that I can't see quitting!

Go to http://www.hslda.org to view the law in New Jersey.  There are absolutely homeschoolers in NJ!  We are many.  :)

The choice of curriculum lies with what priorities you have, what your child's learning style is, etc.  It's a tough decision , and an overwhelming one!  We started with A Beka (textbook approach) and now use http://www.amblesideonline.org (a more natural approach).  The latter fits my personality and our living style so well, but someone else may love the structure and discipline of the textbook approach. There are many other options, too!

I have heard of some using ACE, although that would bore my children and me crazy.  We'd rather go outside and learn our science through real life or an interesting book than through those worksheets.  But that's subjective!  The beauty of homeschooling is  the FREEDOM to choose YOUR way.

I created a pay-it-forward site for educators and parents at http://www.freelyeducate.com .  Check it out for some links to curriculum and other sources (such as AmblesideOnline).  New posts go up daily.  Let me know through FreelyEducate if you need more help.