Parents dedicated to home schooling feel that way because they want things done right. But it can be overwhelming for a first time home schooling parent. State and Federal laws don't make it easy and that's where you come in.
Have you ever heard it said that if you want something done right you have to do it yourself? Many people today are taking that philosophy to heart when it comes to the education of their children. The number of home-schooled children in America is growing just about as fast as the amount of info available on the subject. Still, parents new to home schooling often feel like they are drowning in a flood of ideas, suggestions, tips, and state requirements.
Here is where you could come to the rescue. If you have the right credentials, you could provide the life preserver these folks need. Best of all, you can actually start a career as a home schooling consultant by doing so-a career you can work from home!
As more families choose to home school, the need for competent, knowledgeable help will increase. However, what exactly does a home school consultant do? Basically, it is the consultant's job to make educating one's own children as easy and stress free as possible. Here are some possible responsibilities:
* Developing portfolios
* Organizing materials
* Evaluating assessment and instructional tools
* Establishing time management strategies
* Developing forms for goal documentation
* Assisting with state compliance
* Locating legal advocates for parents
* Organizing field trips
* Communicating between parents, organizations, or government entities
* Preparing Student Education Plans
* Assisting with curriculum planning
In order to succeed as a home school consultant you will need to develop a working knowledge and a passion about home schooling. You will need to be able work well with people from various backgrounds. Additionally, some states may require certain educational degrees and/or certification.
Once you establish your credentials, you shouldn't have any trouble finding clients. Advertise your services with school boards, school counselors, yellow pages, church groups, and newspapers. Don't forget out-of-town clients. An informative, professional website will help you reach these folks. There is plenty of consulting that can be done via phone, fax, and e-mail.
Charge $30 to $50 an hour and make sure your fees cover any mileage you may incur.
A possible side business is speaking at conventions and seminars. This is especially true if you create a specialty like special needs education. Or you could focus on specific subjects like high school math and science or fine arts. You could reach more potential clients by holding informative workshops for parents just considering the possibility of teaching at home.
Parents dedicated to home schooling feel that way because they want things done right. Why not take it upon yourself to help them get the job done? In the process you'll be helping yourself to a new career-one you can do from home. What a smart idea!
Resources:
http://www.homeschool.com/
http://homeschooling.about.com/od/gettingstarted/a/homeschool4you.htm
July 29, 2008
