Homeschooling through high school might seem daunting at first, but with the right plan in place, it can be a deeply rewarding experience. Whether you’re just starting to consider it or you’ve already made the decision, this guide will walk you through five simple steps to set you and your teen up for success.
Homeschooling high school has been one of my favorite parts of the homeschooling journey. It’s a time when you begin to see your child mature into a young adult, handling bigger challenges, making important decisions, and shaping their future. While academics are crucial, high school is also about character development, emotional growth, and preparing them for life beyond the classroom.
Here’s a five-day “mini-series” to break down the process and make it more manageable. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Create a Four-Year Plan
The best way to plan for homeschooling high school is to work backwards—think about what your teen will need by the time they graduate and map out a plan that covers all the essentials.
Start by considering your teen’s goals. If college is in the picture, research the general admission requirements for universities they might be interested in. This typically includes core subjects like English, math, science, history, and foreign languages. Even if college isn’t the plan, having a solid academic foundation ensures your teen is prepared for whatever path they choose.
You can create a simple template to track progress through the four years, adjusting as needed. Be flexible—sometimes plans change based on your teen’s evolving interests and strengths. But having a roadmap will make the journey less overwhelming and keep you both on track.
Step 2: Cover the Basics – Reading, Writing, and More
Now that you have a general plan, it’s time to break down the core subjects. Reading, writing, math, science, and history are the foundation of any solid high school education. The key is to find resources that fit your teen’s learning style.
For reading and writing, explore various forms of literature—novels, essays, poetry—and encourage creative and analytical writing. Math and science should be tailored to your child’s level and interests. Whether it’s algebra, geometry, chemistry, or physics, make sure you have the resources to support them as they advance through each subject.
If any areas need extra attention, this is the time to add supplemental materials or tutoring. Focus on mastering the basics first, then build upon them as your teen progresses.
Step 3: Don’t Forget the Power of Electives
High school is the perfect time to explore electives that tap into your teen’s interests and passions. Electives are more than just “extra” classes—they’re an opportunity for life skills, creativity, and deeper learning.
Encourage your teen to try subjects like art, music, coding, photography, or business. Electives also provide room for practical life skills, like personal finance, home economics, or even car maintenance. These courses not only break up the routine of core subjects but also allow your teen to discover new hobbies or potential career paths.
Electives also show colleges that your teen is well-rounded and curious about the world, giving them an edge during the application process.
Step 4: Preparing for College (or Not)
If college is part of the plan, now is the time to start preparing. Research potential colleges and their specific requirements. High school is the time to focus on any necessary standardized tests, such as the SAT or ACT, and to build a well-rounded transcript.
However, college isn’t the only option. Some teens might opt for trade schools, internships, or even starting a business. The key is to prepare your child for life after high school, no matter which path they choose. Make sure they are developing the skills and knowledge they need for their desired future.
By keeping your teen’s options open and encouraging them to explore different possibilities, you’re ensuring that they can make an informed decision about what’s next.
Step 5: From Planning to Testing – Wrapping It All Up
As you navigate the high school years, there are many practical aspects to consider, from keeping records and creating transcripts to testing and graduation requirements.
Use planners, calendars, or online tools to stay organized. Keep track of completed courses, grades, and extracurricular activities to create a well-rounded transcript. If your teen is college-bound, make sure you’re familiar with any necessary testing dates and requirements.
Testing can also help gauge where your teen stands academically and whether they need more support in certain areas. Whether you use formal exams or more casual assessments, tracking progress ensures they’re meeting their goals.
A Final Thought
Homeschooling high school can feel overwhelming at times, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes the process easier and more enjoyable. Creating a plan, focusing on core subjects, embracing electives, and preparing for life after high school will help ensure a successful homeschool journey.
By the end of the process, you’ll have helped shape not just your teen’s education, but also their character, confidence, and readiness for the future. Take it one step at a time, adjust as needed, and enjoy the journey together.