Why homeschool?

There are probably as many different reasons to homeschool as there are homeschoolers. Among the more common reasons cited for choosing to homeschool are moral and/or religious, safety, academic, and/or social concerns.

Should I be concerned about the socialization of my child?

There are plenty of opportunities for socialization to take place aside from public schools. There are group activities, church functions, home school bands, and the list goes on, for home school families to take advantage of. The quality of parent monitored socialization should stand out against that of the public schools considering school administrators constantly complain they are understaffed/underfunded.

Is there any research data regarding homeschooling?

Home School Snapshot - According to the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI):

• There are nearly 2 million home schoolers in the United States
• Most parents home school because they believe they can give their child a better education at home
• Home schooled students score better, on average, than those in conventional state-run schools
• Home schooling continues to grow at a rate of 7-15% each year

http://www.nheri.org

http://www.hslda.org/research/faq.asp#1

What resources are available for homeschooling a special needs child?
 
Home educating children with special needs is gaining in popularity. As this continues, you will see more support and resources becoming available to you. The following is a short list of resources. We would like to see members of PIE add to this list through the Member Center.

http://www.nathhan.com/

http://www.hslda.org/strugglinglearner/default.asp

http://www.woodbinehouse.com/

Where should I start my research of home schooling?

The Handbook is as good a place as any other. The purpose of this Handbook is to make readily available useful information pertaining to home schooling to assist independent educators in pursuing their goals regardless of their location. It is intended to convey expectations regarding membership with PIE, as well as, to provide a variety of recommended resources, services, and much more.

You do not have to be a member of PIE to benefit from the Handbook.

http://pietemp.com/Handbook/tabid/64/Default.aspx