State Laws, Community Activities, and Conferences

So, I meant to post this last blog in the "So You Want to Homeschool" series last week. 

That didn't happen. :)

Welcome to the life of a homeschooler. Nothing happens on time. :)

State Laws

The laws for homeschooling in your state can be found at www.hslda.org. Click on "my state" on the right and follow the instructions. This is the sight for the Home School Legal Defense Association. I would recommend that you look around the sight and familiarize yourself with it. It has some great tools. 

In addition your state may also have it's own website for homeschoolers. In my state of Montana we have the website http://www.mtche.org/

Some states have stricter laws than others. In Montana we only have to file an notification of our intent to homeschool with the county superintendent and have a record of immunizations and attendance on file at home (which the superintendent has the ability to request). To find the forms I would suggest doing an internet search for homeschooling forms in your county. Some states require testing or even particular curriculum that you must follow. Personally, I'm thankful for the freedoms that we have in Montana. 

The website for Gallatin County homeschool forms is: http://www.gallatin.mt.gov/public_documents/gallatincomt_homeschool/HSForms

Community Activities

Even though I have previously stated that socialization is not as big of a deal to us homeschoolers, we still want to make sure that our kids have the opportunities to reach out to other kids and to do the activities that they love. In my beloved city of Bozeman, MT we have a program guide that is put out for summer, fall and winter, and spring. (http://www.bozemandailychronicle.com/app/special_sections/park_rec_summe_in_13/)  It has all kinds of activities for kids up to adults. There are swimming classes. cooking classes, art classes, dance classes.... you name it and we have a class for it. They normally cost a minimal amount and the kids have a great time. There are also other opportunities through local churches. Another internet search should be able to help you find events and classes in your community for your children. 

Be sure that you look for homeschooling groups on the internet for your specific area or town. We have a yahoo group for Bozeman called BHN. Activities and get togethers will be posted in these groups. They are wonderful resources. 

Conferences

While I have yet to go to a homeschooling conference, I know that they are a wonderful resource. Most conferences have classes that will help you to homeschool your child better. They even have classes that your children can attend. There will also be vendors there with curriculum, so you can get an up close look at possible materials for the next school year. These conferences help you get pumped up for the next year of homeschooling. I am eagerly awaiting our conference for next year.