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Why homeschool? Homeschoolers learn more and play more. Homeschooling is less stressful for the entire family. No homework, rushing for the bus, or excruciatingly long days sitting at a desk. Homeschoolers have lots more time for fun things like soccer, playing with friends, special classes, volunteer work, or using their imagination. The average homeschooler is ahead by one grade in the elementary years and by eighth grade is four years ahead. 1 Homeschoolers took first, second and third places in the 2000 National Spelling Bee. Some people complained that homeschoolers had an "unfair advantage." It's true, and not just in spelling, but in all subjects! Life is less hectic and centered on the family's needs, instead of on the school's needs. Parental authority is not superseded by school administrators. Homeschoolers get lots more individual attention. Homeschooler have lots more time to help out around the house. Homeschoolers have more time to learn about things they are really interested in, like science or art. Homeschooling in Connecticut is extremely easy. There are very few requirements and you can do things your own way.
***** 1. The Scholastic Achievement and Demographic Characteristics of Home School Students in 1998, by Lawrence M. Rudner, Ph.D. For more information about the study, which covered over 20,000 homeschoolers, see a summary of the report.
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Valley Resources Local Support Groups Between Counties Home Educators Support Group maintains a newsletter, discussion board, email-list, and website with local links for the Fairfield/New Haven County area. A great way to meet other homeschoolers. Contact Stacey Freddino at StaceyFre@aol.com R.O.C.K. Reaching Our Connecticut Kids. Based in Shelton. Monthly meetings, "Double Digit Club", Ice Skating in Shelton, and other events.
Local Homeschoolers:
Valley Educational and Recreational Resources Shelton Community Center (offers a variety of classes like Spanish, Little Scientists, and Sign Language, and sponsors supervised summer playground sessions at the local schools.) Boys and Girls Club in Shelton (after-school and summer camp programs) Recreation Camp in Derby, A summer program open for kids from all over. Ansonia Nature Center (online schedule of events and classes) Kellogg Environmental Center (online schedule of events) Valley Libraries and Bibliomation Perform an online search of Connecticut libraries. When you find your book, ask your local librarian to have it loaned. Youth CONNection: Theater group for ages 14 - 25. They also have classes for kids starting at Grade 1. Shelton Trails (lots of information about hiking trails in the area as well as nature study along the trails).
Valley Sports Open to Homeschoolers Youth Soccer Ages 5-15, spring and fall seasons, but registration is months before that. Little League - District 3. Eastern Regional phone number is (860) 585-4730. Biddy League Basketball (Derby residents ages 6-13). There are also Youth Basketball organizations in other Valley towns (definitely one in Shelton). Contact your local Parks and Rec Department. This is a winter sport. Derby Summer Playground |
Other Resources CT Resources Connecticut Homeschool Network Website with lots of info, newsletter and extensive listing of events. Unschoolers’
Unlimited Notice of Intent Form online. About.com: Homeschooling in Connecticut. Links to state legal information and support groups.
National Home Education Network. Lots of great information, tons of articles, email lists, message boards, and newsletters. Home Education Magazine. Message boards, email lists and newsletters. Unschooling.com. Find out what Unschooling is all about. Homeschooling at About.com. Tons of info. Typical Course of Study, by grade. Find out what kids are expected to know at each grade level at a typical public school. List of Colleges that admit homeschoolers (includes U-CONN). College: Tips for Homeschoolers Going to College Bulletin Board Socialization Research (homeschoolers get along better with other kids and are better behaved)
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