Working and Homeschooling - Essential Information For Work at Home Moms

Working and homeschooling is becoming more popular as many parents need to earn income while educating their children at home. Some parents who work at home while homeschooling need a full time income. Others need supplemental income to pay for homeschooling activities, curriculum and supplies.

Here are five tips for homeschooling and working:

1. Find the right work at home moms opportunity. Think about the needs of your children and how much time you have available. Figure out how much income you need to earn. You may be able to arrange telecommuting in your current position. If that option is not available, consider working in a virtual call center, starting your own business or joining a direct sales organization.
2. Set specific, measurable goals. Set clear goals in the areas of work, homeschooling and family. Know what you want to accomplish and what you will have to do in order to achieve the results you desire. Don't let your aspirations in one area overshadow those in others. Limit work to certain hours to make time for family fun and personal pursuits.
3. Find a curriculum that works for your family. Some moms who work and homeschool prefer prepackaged curricula that offer structure and allow children to work independently. Others prefer a more relaxed homeschooling method that involves learning through everyday life. In addition to finding the right program, teach your child good work habits and time management skills. Set small goals that can be reached independently. Use audiobooks, educational videos and computer programs to supplement direct teaching.
4. Find a schedule that works for your family. You don't have to conduct lessons during typical school hours. Consider teaching during evenings or on weekends, and teach science, history and electives one or two days per week. Schedule your work hours for times when your children are napping or engaged in independent activities. Be flexible. You may have to try several arrangements until you find a schedule that works.
5. Develop a support network. Allow relatives, friends and other homeschool parents to help you with child care and transporting children to and from events. You don't have to be your child's only teacher. Take advantage of educational opportunities at homeschool support groups, museums, libraries, co-ops and other activities.

Here are some additional tips for working and homeschooling.

Carletta Sanders is a working homeschool mom of 3. Visit her website, Successful Homeschooling, to find additional advice for moms who work at home.