🏡 Homeschool Programs: Classes, Co-ops, Microschools and more...
How to Find, Evaluate, and Start Local & Online Homeschool Programs
Contrary to popular belief, most homeschooling doesn't happen at home!
In modular learning, families curate an ideal education for their unique child through a mosaic of programs at home and out in the world. Homeschool programs can help modular learners make friends, provide childcare, bring accountability, and offer expert support. Typical homeschool programs include online classes, in-person classes, and hybrid schools (also known as homeschool co-ops, microschools, and learning pods).
To find homeschool programs, start by seeking suggestions in your local and global online homeschool groups. Explore Yelp and Google Maps for the best afterschool classes and summer camps near you. Avoid overloading your child’s schedule from the start. Instead, try out programs one at a time, layering on additional activities as you go, and giving your homeschool plan space to evolve over time.
In This Guide, We Will Explore:
Three Types of Homeschooling Programs
Where to Find Local Homeschool and Afterschool Classes
Hybrid Schools: Homeschool Co-ops, Learning Pods, and Microschools
Seven Ways to Evaluate Homeschool Programs
Online Homeschool Programs
How to Start a Homeschool Program for Your Child and Friends
Understanding Homeschool Programs
Homeschool programs can be a great channel for students to make friends, learn collaboratively, and engage with exceptional teachers. In this section, we’ll discuss different types of local and online homeschool programs, as well as how to find and evaluate whether they’ll be a fit for your children.
The Three Types of Homeschooling Programs
Online Classes: These provide flexibility and a broad range of subjects from the comfort of your home.
In-person Classes: These foster social interaction and hands-on learning.
Hybrid Schools: Also known as homeschool co-ops, microschools, and learning pods, these combine the best of both worlds.
Finding Local Homeschool and Afterschool Classes
Start your search by joining online homeschool groups. These communities often share valuable resources and recommendations. Platforms like Yelp and Google Maps can also help you find highly-rated afterschool classes and summer camps in your area.
Exploring Hybrid Schools: Homeschool Co-ops, Learning Pods, and Microschools
Hybrid schools offer a blend of in-person and online learning, providing a balanced approach to education. These can be an excellent option for families looking for a more structured environment than traditional homeschooling.
Seven Ways to Evaluate Homeschool Programs
When evaluating homeschool programs, consider the following:
Curriculum Quality: Ensure the program offers a comprehensive and well-rounded curriculum.
Teacher Qualifications: Check the credentials and experience of the instructors.
Class Size: Smaller class sizes often lead to more personalized attention.
Flexibility: Look for programs that accommodate your schedule and learning style.
Cost: Compare the program fees with the value they offer.
Parent Reviews: Read testimonials and reviews from other homeschooling parents.
Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited and recognized by educational authorities.
Online Homeschool Programs
Online programs offer flexibility and a wide range of subjects. They can be particularly useful for specialized subjects or advanced learning opportunities not available locally.
Starting a Homeschool Program for Your Child and Friends
If there isn’t a homeschool program near you (or offered online in a subject of interest), it might be easier to start one than you think. At Modulo, we’ve refined our process through years of helping families find quality programs in any subject area worldwide and starting new ones when they didn’t exist.
Additional Resources
For more on one-on-one tutoring, check out our post on "How to Find and Vet Homeschool Teachers." We draw heavily on online homeschool groups to find and evaluate programs. If you need help finding a local homeschool group, be sure to consult our post on socialization, where we provide in-depth steps on finding a homeschool program in your area.
By following these guidelines, you can find, evaluate, or even start homeschool programs that cater to your child’s unique educational needs
