The Homeschooling Handbook: From Preschool to High School, A Parent's Guide to: Making the Decision; Discove ring your child's learning style; Get

Based on the previous reviews, this was the first book I chose to read as we begin to consider to homeschooling our two young children. Beginning with the introduction, this informative book is written in an easy-to-read format, with chapters leading the reader through "Does Homeschooling Really Work," legal information and ideas to think about for your own homeschool. How much structure do you want? Will you need outside assistance? How much does it cost? The book covers the huge differences between primary education, middle school, and high school education. It discusses recordkeeping, learning resources, and finding your niche in the homeschooling community. It provides information on "rough" spots and learning/physical disabilities. Although the book is definitely slanted for the person wanting to find out more information, the author takes no stand on such personal choice issues such as: different theories of learning (unschooling), the private school umbrella, and many other matters. Instead, the author provides a detailed list of pros and cons for these choices, leaving this decision to the reader. Throughout the book are interview excerpts from homeschooling families around the country, providing their viewpoint on many different areas.This book gave me courage to continue to find out more about homeschooling. It answered questions that I hadn't even begun to think of. The easy to follow format means I could easily go back to reread something. It also includes an index and terrific appendices such as homeschooling resources, organizations and selected learning resources. I highly recommend this book.

We will be starting homeschooling in June of 2001. I have read no less than 7 books on this topic and this one stands out amongst the others. It is so informative, it answered all of my questions and then some. It gives very specific information on the different "styles" of homeschooling, loads of resources, and best of all you get to read about real homeschooling families, how they do things and why. The author does write with obvious favor to her own schooling method of choice, but not nearly as overtly as others I've read. If you are considering homeshcooling, then read this book before any others.

I normally dislike homeschooling books, because so many have nothing to do with reality. However, when I reviewed this book for my BellaOnline column, I was very impressed. Even though I'm on my nineth year of homeschooling, I learned from it. I was impressed by the honesty. She does not fall into the trap of pretending all of homeschooling is wonderful or perfect. No, the house won't always stay clean. Yes, sometimes the kids won't cooperate. Yes, sometimes people will harass you. However, she also tells you what to do about all these problems. She tackles even the toughest problem-children who want to return to public school, for example-gently, but without sugar coating.The book is designed for beginners, but there was so much about homeschooling I didn't know. If you like to be well-educated about your type of homeschooling, be sure to read this book.

As someone who regularly helps new homeschoolers get started homeschooling, this is the book I recommend as the best "first-read" on the subject. Most other homeschooling books overwhelm the new or prospective homeschooler with minutiae. Griffith's perspective is broad; giving the reader a thorough, readable overview of the topic. If you're just beginning your journey into homeschooling, The Homeschooling Handbook is THE book to read.

In her easy-to-understand style, Mary Griffith covers all the bases with this book. If you're wondering about homeschooling, considering starting, or already have started, this book is a must-read. It quickly reviews the history of formal education,and its reformers. Summarizes the different types of homeschooling, and sites examples for each type in 3 age groups. She picks the best resources and gives a great foundation. This book is an enjoyable learning experience!