Homeschooling is changing, and online learning is becoming a big part of that change. More and more families are choosing live online homeschool classes to give their children a flexible and engaging education.
There were 3.1 million homeschool students in grades K-12 in the United States in 2021-2022, up from 2.5 million in spring 2019. Homeschool students even score 15 to 25 percentile points above public-school students on standardized academic achievement tests.
But what exactly are live online homeschool classes, and are they the right fit for your family?
In this blog post, we'll explore live online homeschooling, looking at both the good and the bad.
We'll discuss the benefits, like getting expert teaching and learning in a fun and interactive way.
We'll also discuss the challenges, such as limiting screen time for your child. It's also important to ensure they have enough opportunities to socialize with other kids.
If you're curious about live online homeschooling and want to learn more about whether it's a good choice for your child, keep reading!
Live online homeschool classes offer many benefits that make learning more engaging and accessible for families.
Advantages of Live Online Homeschool Classes
Live online homeschool classes are becoming a popular way for families to homeschool their children. These classes combine the flexibility of learning at home with the structure and support of a traditional classroom.
This means that students can learn at their own pace, in their own space, while still having access to expert teachers and a community of learners. This can be a great option for families who want a more personalized and engaging learning experience for their child.
1. Interactive Teaching
Engaging Instruction: Live online classes are taught by skilled educators who create engaging and enjoyable learning experiences. These teachers are experts in their subjects and are passionate about sharing their knowledge with students.
They use different methods to help students understand and enjoy what they're learning, such as interactive games, discussions, and activities. This helps to keep students motivated and interested in their learning, even when they are not in a traditional classroom setting.
2. Engaging Students
Active Participation: Online classes can be a great way for students to learn and grow. They can ask questions, share ideas, and work with other students, which helps them build confidence and social skills.
This can be especially helpful for students who might feel shy or uncomfortable in a traditional classroom setting.
Online platforms often provide tools for students to interact with each other, such as chat boxes, breakout rooms, and shared whiteboards.
3. No Need for Parents to Plan
Teacher-Prepared Materials: One of the great things about live online classes is that teachers prepare all the lessons and materials. This means that parents don't have to spend time planning lessons or grading assignments, giving them more time to focus on other things.
This can be a huge relief for busy parents who might not have the time or expertise to create their own homeschooling curriculum.
4. Helping Students Succeed
Support and Resources: Online homeschool classes offer a lot of support to help students succeed. Students can get extra help from teachers, use online resources, and learn at their own pace.
This makes sure that every student gets the help they need to learn and grow. This support can include things like one-on-one tutoring, access to online libraries and learning platforms, and regular feedback from teachers.
Live online homeschool classes are a great way to give your child a flexible, engaging, and supportive learning experience. They offer many benefits that can help your child succeed in their education.
While there are many advantages, it's also important to consider the challenges.
Challenges of Live Online Homeschool Classes
While live online homeschool classes offer many benefits, they also come with their own set of challenges that families should consider.
It's important to be aware of these potential drawbacks and develop strategies to overcome them. That will ensure a positive and successful online homeschooling experience for your child.
1. Screen Time Concerns
Balancing Screen Time: Spending too much time on screens can lead to negative impacts on children's health and development, including eye strain, sleep disturbances, and attention difficulties.
Striking a balance between online learning and other activities, like outdoor play, reading, and social interaction, is essential. This can include setting screen time limits, incorporating breaks and physical movement, and establishing a well-rounded daily routine.
2. Lack of Socialization
Creating Connections: Online learning can sometimes limit opportunities for social interaction and real-world experiences. It's important to create opportunities for your child to connect with other children, either through online groups, homeschool co-ops, or local activities and events.
This allows them to improve social skills, form meaningful friendships, and experience a sense of belonging.
3. Negligible Hands-On Learning
Engaging the Senses: Recreating the hands-on, experiential learning that many homeschooling families value can be difficult in an online setting. Consider incorporating hands-on activities, experiments, and projects into your child's learning, even if they are participating in online classes.
This can help them engage with the material in a more meaningful way and develop a deeper understanding of concepts.
4. Engagement and Learning Styles
Adapting to Different Learners: Online classes might not be equally engaging or effective for all students. Some children might thrive in a virtual learning environment, while others might struggle to stay focused or motivated.
It's important to choose online classes that are designed for your child's learning style and provide them with the support they need to succeed.
This might involve finding classes with interactive elements, small group discussions, or opportunities for personalized feedback.
5. Curriculum Alignment
Meeting Requirements: It's important to ensure that the online classes you choose align with your educational goals and any state requirements for homeschooling.
Make sure the curriculum is comprehensive and covers the necessary subjects and skills. This might involve researching different online providers, comparing curriculums, and talking to other homeschooling families about their experiences.
6. Technology and Access
Ensuring Access: Online learning requires reliable internet access and appropriate technology, such as a computer or tablet. This can make it difficult for some families, particularly those in rural areas or with limited financial resources.
It's important to make sure you have the necessary technology and internet access before enrolling your child in online classes. You might also need to consider the cost of software, subscriptions, or other technology-related expenses.
7. Teacher Qualifications and Support
Choosing Quality Programs: It's important to choose online classes taught by qualified and experienced teachers. Consider whether the program offers opportunities for interaction with the teacher, feedback on student work, and support for parents.
This can help ensure that your child is receiving a quality education and that you have the support you need to guide their learning.
8. Cost
Managing Expenses: The cost of live online homeschool classes can add up, and prices vary based on the provider and program. Online homeschooling programs cost between $400 to $6,000 per child annually, depending on the type of instruction (live teacher or self-led lessons).
Consider your budget and whether the cost is manageable for your family.
You might need to compare prices, explore payment options, or consider alternative approaches to online learning, such as free online resources or self-paced courses.
If the cost of live online homeschool classes is a concern, there are financial aid options available. Check out our blog on Homeschool Grants: Where to Find Funding and Financial Aid to learn about grants and other funding opportunities that can help make homeschooling more affordable.
You can build a rewarding and effective online homeschooling experience for your child by understanding these challenges and finding solutions.
To make the most of live online homeschool classes, many families combine them with other homeschooling methods. A balanced approach can help create a well-rounded learning experience that meets your child’s needs.
Homeschooling: A Balanced Alternative to Live Online Classes
Homeschooling gives you the flexibility to customize your child's learning experience to match their individual needs and interests. This means that homeschooling can be adapted to fit your child's learning style, your family's lifestyle, and your educational goals.
Here's how homeschooling can address some of the challenges of live online classes:
1. Screen Time
Balancing Screen Time: One of the concerns with online learning is the amount of time children spend in front of screens. Homeschooling allows for greater control over screen time. It enables families to create a balanced approach that includes outdoor activities, hands-on projects, and real-world experiences.
This helps protect children's health and development by reducing their exposure to screens and encouraging them to engage with the world around them.
You can set limits on screen time, plan a schedule that allows enough time for other activities. You can also choose learning materials that don't rely heavily on screens.
2. Socialization
Creating Connections: Another concern with online learning is that children might miss out on social interaction with other kids. Homeschooling communities offer various opportunities for socialization, such as co-ops, field trips, and group activities.
This allows children to interact with other children, form connections and strengthen essential social skills in a supportive and comfortable environment. You can also find homeschooling groups and activities in your local community, providing even more opportunities for your child to connect with others.
3. Hands-On Learning
Engaging the Senses: Online learning can sometimes make it difficult to provide hands-on learning experiences. Homeschooling provides the flexibility to incorporate hands-on activities, experiments, and projects into the curriculum.
This creates a more engaging and multi-sensory learning experience, helping children develop a deeper understanding of concepts and a love of learning. You can use a variety of materials and resources to create hands-on activities.
You can also customize these activities to match your child's interests and preferred learning style.
4. Personalized Learning
Tailoring Education: Homeschooling allows for truly personalized learning, allowing the curriculum and teaching methods to be tailored to the child's unique needs, interests, and learning style.
This ensures that the child is challenged and supported in their learning, and it allows them to learn at their own pace and explore their passions. There are many homeschooling curriculums and resources available for you to choose from.
You can also design a curriculum that aligns with your child's unique needs and interests.
5. Resources and Support
Finding Your Community: Homeschooling families have access to a wealth of resources and support, including curriculum providers, online communities, and local homeschooling groups.
This helps families feel connected and supported in their homeschooling journey. You can find support groups, online forums, and homeschooling conferences where you can connect with other families, share ideas, and get advice.
6. Qualified Educators
Accessing Expertise: While parents are often the primary educators in homeschooling, they can also access support from qualified teachers and tutors. This ensures that children receive a high-quality education from experienced educators.
You can find tutors for specific subjects, or you can enroll your child in online courses or homeschool co-ops where they can learn from certified teachers.
7. Affordability
Managing Costs: Homeschooling can be more affordable than some people think. There are many free and low-cost resources available, and families can often save money on things like transportation and extracurricular activities.
Homeschool curriculum costs specifically range from $200 to $700 per student, with options to purchase comprehensive 36-week packages or select individual courses.
You can also choose to use a combination of free and paid resources to create a homeschooling program that fits your budget.
It's important to understand the financial aspects of homeschooling. If you're wondering whether homeschooling expenses can be tax-deductible, check out this complete guide on Is Homeschooling Tax Deductible? to learn more.
If you're looking for a trusted resource to homeschool your child, The School House Anywhere (TSHA) offers comprehensive curriculum options and expert support. Our program helps families homeschool with confidence.
The School House Anywhere (TSHA): A Leading Provider of Homeschooling Curriculum and Support
When it comes to homeschooling, TSHA stands out as a leading provider of comprehensive curriculum and support services. We offer a unique approach that combines the best of traditional and modern education, creating a personalized and engaging learning experience for students.
Here's what makes TSHA one of the best homeschooling options:
1. Screen-Free Learning
TSHA's American Emergent Curriculum (AEC) is completely screen-free, prioritizing hands-on activities, real-world experiences, and multi-sensory learning. This approach helps protect children's health and development while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and a love of learning.
2. Strong Community and Support
TSHA provides a variety of ways for families to connect with each other and feel supported throughout their homeschooling journey:
Access to the TSHA Member Site
Live online gatherings with educators and founders, including Q&A sessions (recorded and available for later viewing)
Scheduled office hours for personalized support
Parent/Educator online social media network and support groups
TSH Podcasts with valuable insights and information
Weekly email updates and bi-weekly newsletters to keep you informed
3. Strong Focus on Hands-On Learning
The AEC is designed to be hands-on and engaging, with activities that encourage children to explore, experiment, and create. This approach helps children learn in a way that is natural and enjoyable, developing a deeper understanding of concepts.
Here's an example of how the AEC incorporates hands-on learning through the Farm Stand Seed-to-Market Program:
Designing and Building: Children plan and create their own garden, setting up garden beds, a chicken coop, and areas for herbs and fruits. They learn about the seasons, soil, and caring for plants and animals.
Indoor Gardening: They also learn about growing food indoors using artificial light and water with specific minerals.
Building a Farm Stand: Learners build a farm stand to sell their produce, starting with a model and then working with a carpenter to construct the actual structure.
Harvesting and Packaging: Students harvest their produce and create packaging for their products, such as wrapping lettuce in burlap or baking quiches using eggs from their chickens.
Running the Farm Stand: Learners take turns running the farm stand, handling customer service, money management, and sales. This provides valuable real-world experience and entrepreneurial skills.
4. Personalized Learning Opportunity
TSHA's curriculum is flexible and adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your child's unique needs and learning style. This means that you can choose the activities and lessons that are most engaging and effective for your child. It ensures that they are challenged and supported in their learning.
5. Comprehensive Curriculum
The AEC is a comprehensive curriculum that covers all the essential subjects and skills for a well-rounded education. It is also aligned with state standards. So you can be confident that your child is getting a strong education that fits their needs and helps them get ready for future success.
The AEC incorporates a variety of proven teaching methodologies, including the Socratic Method, Montessori materials, and project-based learning. It is updated annually to reflect the latest research and best practices.
6. Strong Support System and Resources
TSHA provides a wealth of resources and support to homeschooling families, including curriculum guides, teacher training videos, and a supportive online community. This ensures that you have the tools and guidance you need to create a successful homeschooling experience for your child.
TSHA also offers a collection of over 300 instructional films, webinars, and in-person training to help you become proficient in various teaching methodologies.
7. Teacher Qualifications
TSHA's curriculum is developed by experienced educators who are passionate about homeschooling. They provide ongoing support and guidance to families.
It ensures that you have access to the expertise you need to create a positive and effective learning environment for your child. These educators have a deep understanding of child development, learning styles, and effective teaching methods.
8. Affordable
TSHA offers a variety of pricing options and payment plans to make its curriculum and services more accessible to families. We also provide guidance on budgeting and financial planning for homeschooling. That helps you make informed decisions about your educational expenses.
The price includes the AEC lessons, standards, stories, printable materials, live workshops, live support, record-keeping tools, webinars, newsletters, and podcasts. Additional fees may apply for hands-on materials. Scholarships are also available on a case-by-case basis.
TSHA addresses the challenges of live online homeschool classes while offering a comprehensive and engaging approach to homeschooling. This provides families with a refreshing alternative that empowers them to create a successful and fulfilling learning experience for their children.
Wrapping Up
Live online homeschool classes offer a new and exciting way for children to learn. They provide flexibility, access to expert teachers, and opportunities for social interaction.
However, it's important to be aware of the potential challenges, such as screen time and the need for a balanced approach to learning.
If you're considering live online homeschooling, do your research, talk to other families, and consider your child's individual needs and learning style.
With careful planning and the right resources, online homeschooling can be both effective and fulfilling for your child.
Want to Homeschool with Confidence? The School House Anywhere Can Help!
Thinking about homeschooling your child but feeling overwhelmed? The School House Anywhere (TSHA) offers a comprehensive and engaging approach to homeschooling that can help you create a successful and fulfilling learning experience for your child.
Here's what sets TSHA apart:
A Unique Curriculum: TSHA's American Emergent Curriculum (AEC) is a research-based, screen-free curriculum that makes learning fun and engaging. The AEC uses hands-on activities, combines different subjects, and helps students learn important skills for the future.
Expert Guidance: TSHA has a team of experienced educators who can answer your questions and provide guidance along the way. They can help you with things like choosing the right curriculum, creating a learning plan, and assessing your child's progress.
A Supportive Community: Build relationships with other homeschooling families and educators who share your passion for personalized learning. TSHA provides a community where you can share ideas, get support, and learn from each other's experiences.
Flexible Learning: TSHA supports different ways of teaching and learning so you can create a homeschooling experience that meets the unique needs of your child and your family.
Financial Assistance: TSHA offers a variety of pricing options and payment plans to make homeschooling more affordable. They can also help you find other financial resources and support.
Ready to start your homeschooling journey with confidence?
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