| Last time we got the kids ready and we started | | | | Whether your state requires it or not, do the |
| teaching. Now, we have the all important task of | | | | testing. Schools test kids for a reason and so |
| keeping records. How are we going to show | | | | should you. This goes beyond tests that are done |
| progress? Don't get too caught up in how the kids | | | | weekly and even monthly or by semesters. You |
| are doing. They will do fine and I will show you | | | | can go online and get copies of old standardized |
| the proof. | | | | tests. Give your child these tests and see how |
| Keep a Portfolio on Each Child | | | | your child does. If possible, see if your child can |
| Portfolios do not have to be hard to keep. I like | | | | take the test with the school. |
| to have multiple portfolios but you might want to | | | | Don't Forget to Socialize Your Child |
| have just one. I like three ring binders with pocket | | | | School is more than books. It is a very social |
| dividers. The pocket dividers are great for things | | | | place. Trust me. As a special education teacher, I |
| you do not want to hole punch. You will want to | | | | had to teach many many social skills. Your child |
| label each divider for each subject you are | | | | needs to socialize with other children. Many home |
| teaching. I actually like having a separate portfolio | | | | schooling parents get together with other home |
| for Art/Music projects that I like to keep. You | | | | schooling parents to socialize their kids. They have |
| may want a separate portfolio for the legal | | | | activities and field trips and even get together for |
| requirements as well (i.e. standardized test). | | | | sports teams. |
| Label each piece of paper with your child's name, | | | | Home schooling is the most important decision |
| age, date, subject and grade. It will be a mess | | | | you can make. You are on the right track. I wish |
| later if you do not. | | | | you the best of luck and happy home schooling. |
| Evaluate Your Child's Progress | | | | |