Homeschooling Highschoolers
Since my daughter is in her first year of High School, we (well, really, I am) are slowly making our way through transcripts and course load and the wonders of it all.
As a mom, I always try to keep in mind the pressures I faced during my high school years when it came to EXPECTATIONS — to follow the family in business, to play a certain sport (and play it well), to head into the right college. I certainly understand just how undecided a high school student can be! And while, as parents, we may want to guide a bit forcefully, it’s important to allow your high schooler the freedom to pursue their own dreams. This often means avoiding the temptation to pick a lane for them — after all, lane changes in the coming years are inevitable and MANY.
I want my children to be able to attend college if that is what they would like to do, but we’re not putting all of our eggs in that basket! With all of that said, here are some of the lessons I have learned while homeschooling my highschooler:
Consider college-recommended courses.
If your child may want to attend college, either around age 18 or in a few years, you should certainly consider using college admissions course requirements as a guideline for studies. This is what we strive for, and, if for any reason my kiddo doesn’t want to head into college, that is totally fine, since we covered it all we won’t be scrambling or adding an extra year because we were not prepared. You can get an overall list of commonly required high school courses, but there is also no substitute for looking at specific college and university websites that are within the realm of possibility for your child to attend. Look at several state universities in your state, several state universities out of your state, and several private colleges to get a good understanding or high school foreign language or math credits needed.
Consider non-course requirements.
There are often additional college admissions standards besides coursework, such as test scores, community service, letters of recommendation, and extra-curricular activities. A minority of colleges have extra requirements for homeschooled students (such as SAT Subject Tests). More competitive colleges have higher requirements. Private colleges may be more flexible, but not always. Keep this in mind throughout these high school years and prepare for it.
As a homeschooler it is always funny to say my mom graded all my work and a homeschool transcript full of parent-graded courses and independent learning done at home may not by itself convince university admissions counselors of a teen’s preparation for college-level work. Record and include with high school portfolio test scores, letters from instructors, and community involvement can all provide colleges with evidence from outside the parent-graded courses that the student is ready for college-level work.
Be mindful of volunteer opportunities.
Many homeschool students volunteer. It’s a great way to serve others and learn a whole lot while doing. There are SO MANY volunteer opportunities, businesses, non-profits, self-employed entrepreneurs, libraries, farms, fire stations, animal shelters and rescues, and even freelancers are always on the lookout for a little extra help. Your children’s developed interest could be their next elective! Ah, the beauty of homeschooling! Also remember what volunteering teaches both academic and non-academic skill sets, Right? Some academic skills include: computer proficiency, writing, public speaking, organization and training in the trades and subject-specific areas, while some non-academic skills may include: time management, responsibility, tolerance, patience, social skills, and accountability.
Also don’t forget to includes sports, music, or jobs (intro to finances!)