How to Homeschool in Canada

Transcription

How to Homeschool in Canada
How to Homeschool in Canada
Copyright © 2014 Published by: Lisa Marie Fletcher
http://thecanadianhomeschooler.com
All Rights Reserved. This book may not be reproduced, transmitted, or stored in whole or in
part by any means, including graphic, electronic, or mechanical without the express written
consent of the publisher except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and
reviews.
While attempts have been made to verify information provided in this publication, neither the
author nor the publisher assumes any responsibilities for errors, omissions, or contradictory
information contained in this document.
The author, publisher and affiliates disclaim any personal loss or liability caused by the
utilization of any information presented herein. The author is not engaged in rendering any
legal, accounting or professional advice. The services of a competent professional should be
used if such assistance is needed.
All product names, logos and trademarks are property of their respective owners who have not
necessarily endorsed, sponsored or approved this publication. While the sources mentioned
herein are assumed to be reliable at the time of this writing, the author, publisher and
affiliates are not responsible for their activities from time to time. Sources may terminate,
move, change prices or do other things at their sole discretion.
Sources can only be confirmed reliable at the time of original publication of this manual. This
manual is a guide only and as such, should be considered solely for basic information.
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Introduction
4
Why I wrote this book, how it can help you, and what you will find inside
Know the Reasons
5
It's important to know why you have decided to homeschool
Understand the Rules
6
The regulations and requirements to homeschool in each province
Get A Support System
13
The where and how's to find other homeschoolers to connect with both on - and offline
Choosing Curriculum
18
Figuring out what best suits you and your child, provincial learning outcomes, & where to
find Canadian materials, plus information about homeschooling through high school
Have a Plan
28
Tips to help your every day homeschooling
Never Stop Learning
31
What we, the parent/teacher, need to learn
Provincial Cheat Sheets
33
A quick reference to the rules, learning outcomes, and support for each province/territory
Other Resources
46
Recommended books and websites
About the Author & Acknowledgements
47
More about me, my website, and the people who helped me with this book
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Why I Wrote This Book:
These days, the homeschooling movement is on the rise, with more and more people
accepting it as a viable option for educating their children.
On a regular basis, I get emails and messages asking me for advice on what steps are needed
to get started homeschooling in Canada. The problem is that most of the time, parents just
don't know where to start. A search for more information is usually challenging, and often the
information they find is complicated and hard to filter through. They feel overwhelmed and
confused.
How This Book Can Help You:
I looked through all the main questions that people ask when they first start homeschooling:
(What do I have to do to get started?, Where do I get curriculum?, Is there a homeschool
community near me?) and have attempted to answer those questions through a compilation
of information that I've gathered to help you as you look into and/or start the journey of
homeschooling.
My goal for this book is to make that first step of homeschooling seem less like a giant leap
into the unknown and more like a safe and easy path to success. Hopefully, it will make how to
start homeschooling in Canada understandable, less overwhelming, and more enjoyable a
journey for you.
What's Inside This Book:
There are 6 main areas that I'd consider important to examine as you start the journey:
Know the Reasons, Understand the Rules, Find Support, Choose Curriculum, Have a Plan,
and Never Stop Learning. In this book, we will examine each of these topics together.
Wherever possible, I've shared helpful resources and links to things that I have used, read, or
loved myself.
Let's get started!
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First is a step that each homeschooler should make sure they’ve done :
Know the reasons why you are homeschooling.
Knowing the WHY behind your choice to homeschool will not only make it easier for you to
explain and refute that decision when questioned, but also gives you something to look back
on and reaffirm your choice if or when you have times of doubt or challenges.
Each family has their own set of reasons for choosing to homeschool. Typically, though, I’d
narrow the list down to 5 main reasons behind the choice to homeschool:
1. To offer an education that better lines up with your religious or moral beliefs.
2. Disapproval or dissatisfaction with the school system's curriculum, methods, agenda,
ability to meet your child's needs, environment, etc.
3. Bullying or other social challenges.
4. Medical needs such as illness, autism, allergies, learning disabilities, etc. that would
be better controlled from home.
5. Lifestyle choice, such as travelling, sports/acting, or living in a foreign country.
Of course, this list is in no way definitive, and most of the time there are a combination of
reasons families choose to homeschool, not just one.
When you are thinking about why you homeschool (or plan to homeschool), don’t forget to
ask your child. It’s amazing how much insight they can offer into why they are or want to be
homeschooled.
Take some time and write them down. Think about it carefully, because it actually makes a
difference to be sure of why you are choosing something that is essentially counter cultural.
It’s easier to throw in the towel if the WHY isn’t clear or you can’t remember it. When done,
put the list somewhere you can see it regularly. It's a great reminder and encouragement to
keep on going.
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The next very important step is to make sure you understand the rules.
Although homeschooling anywhere in Canada is completely legal, each province and territory
has their own set of regulations and expectations surrounding homeschool. It is important
that you familiarize yourself with what your province/territory requires. The last thing you
want is to have a conflict that could cause big troubles for your family and your intent to
educate at home.
One highly recommended resource is the Homeschool Legal Defence Association of
Canada (HSLDA). I asked them to share a little more about who they are and what they do:
“HSLDA's mission is to enable, empower, and protect Canadian home educators. As
such, our strong desire is to make a difference in the homeschooling community at
large by being a positive influence in the lives of individual families. Our name
indicates our unique and primary role: we are our members’ defence and assurance in
any legal matters that might impact their ability and right to homeschool (including
letters to government organizations, jury duty exemption, court cases, and provincial
notification forms). We are actively involved in provincial, federal, and international
politics to ensure that Canadians’ constitutional freedoms to homeschool are not
limited or jeopardized. However, what many people do not realize is that our members
experience many other benefits as well. Membership to HSLDA provides insurance
coverage over homeschooling events and activities. As well, HSLDA is committed not
only to defending your freedom to homeschool, but also to lightening your load as you
homeschool. Our expert staff, our member site, our social media sites, and our regular
emails are full of insight, resources, and answers to help our members in their
homeschool journey. From preschool to high school graduation to entering the
postsecondary realm, HSLDA has the knowledge and help that you need to homeschool
well. You do not need to wait for a crisis: you can contact our office anytime with
questions you may have. Why not become a member today?”
While membership with the HSLDA is not required in order to homeschool, many families
feel it is a vital part of their homeschooling basics.
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British Columbia
In British Columbia, there are actually 2 main options for learning at home. One is called
Distributed Learning (enrolling) and the other is actually homeschooling (registering). There
is a big difference between the two – homeschooling being more independent whereas
distributed learning is more like “school at home.” Homeschoolers in this province get
financial support with the value dependant on what option is chosen.
“Here in British Columbia, we have a government that seems quite supportive of
home education. There are many options available to families here. You can be a
registered homeschooler, an enrolled homeschooler, or you can send your child to
some classes at a public school and do some at home. ” -Natasha M., homeschooling
parent
•Government Requirements
•BC Home Learners’ Association
•The Difference Between Distributed
•Provincial Association of
Learning and Homeschool
Homeschoolers of British Columbia
•From a BC Homeschooler
Alberta
In Alberta, families who homeschool are required to register with a willing board somewhere
in the province and have their plans approved. There are 3 options: completely doing your
own plans, following some of the government curriculum outlines, or completely following the
school plans. You are assigned a facilitator who visits you several times during the course of
the year. This province offers funding to families who homeschool, depending on what school
board and method of schooling you choose.
“In order to be legal and to receive funding (yes in Alberta you can get reimbursed for
home education resources you purchase) you need to be registered with a “Willing
Non-Resident” School Board by September 30 of the year you are planning to home
educate.” - Lori D., homeschooling parent
•Government Requirements
•Alberta Home Education Handbook
•From an Albertan Homeschooler
•Alberta Home Education Association
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Saskatchewan
Homeschoolers in Saskatchewan are required to register with their school board and provide
an educational plan for each child. Over the course of the year, they need to keep a portfolio of
their work which they present at the end of the year. Funding for homeschoolers varies
according to district.
“While homeschooling regulations in Saskatchewan are set by the province,
registration, documentation, and files are maintained by each school district. Each
district appoints a homeschool administrator, who serves as the contact individual
for homeschooling parents, and who will collect information coming from parents
regarding homeschool registration, plans, outcomes, etc.” - Sheri V., homeschooling
parent
•Government Requirements
•From a Saskatchewan Homeschooler
•Saskatchewan Home Based Educators
Manitoba
In Manitoba, homeschoolers need to inform the government that they are homeschooling. In
January and again in June, an official report is filed outlining the learning completed. This
province offers no funding to homeschooling families.
“Homeschooling regulations in Manitoba are very simple: let the government know
you are going to homeschool and update them twice on how it’s going.” - Jennifer G.,
homeschooling parent
•Government Requirements
•From a Manitoban Homeschooler
•Manitoba Association for Schooling at
Home
•Manitoba Association of Christian
Homeschools
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Ontario
Ontario homeschoolers are requested to submit a letter of intent to their local school board.
Other than this letter, there is no other requirement or involvement from the government.
This province offers no funding to homeschooling families.
“In Ontario there are no laws for homeschoolers that require you to submit
curriculum plans, text book lists or reading lists. There are also no required testings
in Ontario. You do not need to have approval to teach what you wish to your child.” Sandra H., homeschooling parent
•Government Requirements
•From an Ontarian Homeschooler
•Ontario Federation of Teaching
Parents
•Ontario Christian Home-Educator's
Connection
•
Québec
Although homeschooling in Québec is completely legal, this province seems to also have the
most challenges with acceptance from their school boards. It is highly recommended to get a
membership with the Homeschool Legal Defence Association (HSLDA) in order to have
legal protection as needed. Please connect with a homeschool association in the province and
the HSLDA for complete details about what is required for homeschoolers in Québec. This
province offers no funding to homeschooling families.
“If you are a member of HSLDA, call them and be in constant contact so they can help
guide you throughout the process. Unfortunately, the School Boards in Québec try to
scare parents and use their inexperience in education to get the parents to sign
contracts that are not in the best interest of the child.” Amber L. – homeschooling
parent
•Education Act
•From a Québecois Homeschooler
•Association Québécoise pour
l’éducation à domicile (French site)
•Association of Christian Parent
Educators of Québec (bilingual site)
•Association d'Enfants Scolarisés à la
Maison (AESM)/Association of
Children Educated at Home (ACEH)
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New Brunswick
In New Brunswick, homeschooling families have to either register with an English or a French
board. The Anglophone board requires submission of a fairly basic set of forms and will
respond with a letter of approval. The Francophone board is more complex – requiring a more
detailed application outlining your homeschooling plans along with an in-home interview.
This province offers no funding to homeschooling families.
“If you are under the Anglophone (English) school districts, parents need to simply fill
out a 4 page form that involves agreeing to teach 11 specific subjects and
acknowledging that you are giving up the right to certain services that are offered
through the school. It's a different story with the French school districts. They have a
6 page form to submit and then they come to your house to conduct an interview.
They want to know what curriculum you're using, what forms of testing you're using,
and how you plan to give your child opportunities to socialize.” - Allison F.,
homeschooling parent
•Government Requirements
•Homeschooling in New Brunswick
(English Brochure)
•Home Educators of New Brunswick
Nova Scotia
In Nova Scotia, parents are required to register their child using a form that is available on the
Ministry of Education's website. In June, parents need to follow that up with a progress
report, outlining what their child learnt throughout the year. This province offers no funding
to homeschooling families.
“In June, the homeschooling parent must send in another form. You can use your own
reporting method, but this form is quick and easy. All it asks for is the subject/course
name, test marks if applicable, the course grade (I just mark it S for satisfactory in
the subjects that we do not provide a grade) and a small comment box. ... I simply use
that box to give a quick overview of the subjects covered that school year.” - Lindsay,
homeschooling parent
•Government Requirements
•From a Nova Scotian Homeschooler
•Nova Scotia Home Education
Association
•HEMS
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Prince Edward Island
All that is required for PEI homeschoolers is to fill out and submit a notice of intent form. This
province offers no funding to homeschooling families.
“There is no requirement to report back to the provincial government. All the
Department of Education and Early Childhood Development asks is that you submit a
simple form called “Notice of Parent’s Intention to Home School” (available on their
website in the “Forms” sections) stating that you intend to homeschool your children.
You are completely responsible for all curriculum, record keeping, and testing.” Jacqueline M., homeschooling parent
•Government Requirements
•From an Island Homeschooler
•PEI Homeschool.com
Newfoundland & Labrador
Recent changes to the school districts have left homeschoolers in Newfoundland and
Labrador without direct information on what is required at this time. Previously, there were
four different regions, each with their own homeschooling requirements, but now everything
has been combined into a single board and official homeschool regulations aren't completed.
Keeping in touch with the HSLDA is a good idea.
“Because of the amalgamation, a province wide policy hasn't been developed yet. It's
largely a region by region case for now. ” - Linda W., homeschooling parent
•Government Website
•Christian Home Educators of
Newfoundland and Labrador
Northwest Territories
In the Northwest Territories, parents register their children with their local school, where they
are classified as students but are exempt from attendance. Homeschoolers in this province get
a portion of the funding from the school to help pay for their school expenses.
"Principals are expected to work with the parents to provide the level of support they
request. In terms of funding, parents are given a portion of the money the school
receives for the student. " - Judy R., homeschooling parent
•Government Requirements
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Nunavut
Homeschooling in Nunavut involves registering with their local school and working with the
leadership in that school. Inclusion of Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (IQ) – or the teaching of Inuit
societal values and culture is to be included in a homeschool education. Funding in this
province is available on a reimbursement plan.
"Each family homeschooling here in Nunavut may find differing interpretations of
this section depending on which school their child is enrolled in. This past year, we
registered our oldest two children (grade 2 and K) with the local school as is required
and had two assessments (math & reading) with the vice principal of the school. In
each of these assessments, their scores were noted and filed." - Thad P.,
homeschooling parent
•
Government Regulations (see section 21)
Yukon
Yukon homeschoolers need to register with the Aurora Virtual School, who co-ordinate the
home education program for Yukon Education. Along with registration, submission of a
home education plan is required that outlines the plans and learning outcomes for the year
divided into four semesters. The Yukon uses the British Columbia curriculum outline for their
guidelines. Funding is provided for homeschoolers in this province.
•Government Requirements
•Home Education Handbook (as of 2014)
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Another very important key to homeschooling success is to build yourself a support
system. But why, and how, should you find support?
A homeschool support group traditionally consists of several homeschool families that get
together in person for various meetings or events, with the purpose of providing opportunities
for kids to interact with other homeschooled kids, parents to connect socially, and to get
access to things like field trips or classes.
In today’s technological world, support groups aren’t just limited to the homeschoolers in
your local community. We are able to connect with homeschooling families from around the
world through online groups – opening up a whole new set of support networks that didn’t
exist not that long ago. We’re able to find people from all walks of life who are experiencing
the same day-to-day struggles, successes, and questions we have.
Benefits of support group:
•social opportunities for both kids and parents
•field trip opportunities (and sometimes group discounts!)
•someone to “talk shop” with – about curriculum, methods, learning styles, etc.
•encouragement from other people with the same experiences
•people who “have your back” against opposition
•wisdom and experience from veteran homeschoolers
How to find a group:
When you are trying to find a support group for your homeschooling experience, you want to
ideally find people who are going through the same kind of journey as you. Although similar
geographic location is one that is a good place to start, don’t be afraid to think outside the box.
For example,
•If you are homeschooling a child with special needs of any sort, search for a group
around that need.
•Look for a group that is built around the same faith as you have.
•Check for a group based on the grade ranges/ genders / interests of your child(ren).
•Find a group that is using the same curriculum choices as you.
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Where to find a group:
To find a local in-person group, try these tips:
• Look up your province’s homeschool support website and see if they have a listing of
any groups that are near you.
• Look into events held at your local library, art gallery, or YMCA – often they have
classes available for homeschooling families. That means that a local bunch of
homeschooling families will all be in one place at one time where you can connect with
them one on one to discover what support groups are around.
To find an online group:
• Search for Yahoo Email Groups. Although many have been abandoned due to other
social media outlets, there are still some active ones around.
• Check on Facebook. This is where you will probably be more successful at finding
support groups online.
• Be sure to search for a local and/or provincial group. Often these communities offer
connections to smaller, active groups to get involved with – or at least can point you in
a good direction.
Facebook Homeschooling Groups
This is by no means a comprehensive list of every group available. Most of these groups are
“closed” – which means that you will need to request to join them. If you don’t get a response,
I recommend sending a message to an administrator so that they know you are real!
I hope that you can connect with some other homeschoolers – online and/or in person. It
truly can make the difference between succeeding in your journey and crumbling under the
strain.
Canada-wide:
•Homeschool Swap: Canada
British Columbia
•BC Unschoolers/Homeschoolers
•British Columbia Homeschool Chat
and Swap
•Greater Vancouver Local Support
Groups (not just Facebook groups)
•Christian Canadian Homeschoolers
•Homeschoolers of Northern BC
•Vancouver Island and Gulf Island
Learning Community
•BC Registered Homeschoolers
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Alberta
•Calgary and Southern Alberta
Homeschoolers
•Homeschoolers Central Alberta
•Alberta Homeschoolers Group
•Cochrane Home Educators
•Red Deer
Homeschooling/Unschooling Circle
•Lethbridge Homeschoolers
•Edmonton Homeschoolers
•Edmonton and Area Aligned
Homeschoolers
•Edmonton West-End Homeschoolers
•Edmonton Natural Learning and
Unschoolers
Saskatchewan
•I homeschool in Saskatchewan!
•I homeschool in MooseJaw
Manitoba
•Manitoba Association for School at
Home
•Winnipeg Homeschoolers
•Unschooling Calgary and Area
•Drumheller Homeschoolers
•Fort MacMurray Homeschoolers
•Medicine Hat Homeschoolers
•Airdrie Homeschool Mom's Group
•Drayton Valley Homeschoolers
•Leduc and Area Homeschoolers
•Sherwood Park and Area
Homeschoolers
•St. Albert and Area Homeschoolers
•Spruce Grove/Stony Plain
Homeschoolers
•Ponoka Homeschoolers
•Lacombe Homeschoolers
•Prairie Spirit Home Educators
•Winnipeg Homeschooling Network
•Unschooling Manitoba
•Interlake Homeschoolers
PEI
•PEIHomeschool.com
Newfoundland & Labrador
•Homeschooling Freethinkers in Newfoundland
The Territories
•Northern Canada Home Based Learning
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Ontario
•Ontario Homeschoolers
•Mississauga Homeschoolers
•Christian Toronto Homeschoolers
•Superior Shores Homeschoolers
•Thunder Bay Christian
Homeschoolers
•Homeschoolers and Unschoolers of
London, ON
•Windsor/Essex County Homeschool
Activity Group
•Homeschooling Parents of Ottawa
•Durham Region Homeschoolers
•Homeschoolers/Unschoolers Toronto
•Northern Ontario Homeschoolers
•Peterborough and Area
Homeschoolers
•Muskoka Homeschoolers
Québec
•Association québécoise pour
l’éducation à domicile
•Centre Communidée - Montreal
Homeschooling Community Centre
•Un/Schooling Club of Barrie, Orillia,
and Surrounding Areas
•Simcoe, Delhi, and Surrounding Areas
Homeschoolers
•Niagara Area Homeschool Group
•Hamilton Christian Homeschool
Support
•Cambridge Ontario Homeschoolers
•Sudbury, Ontario Homeschooling
Parents Group
•Toronto Muslim Homeschoolers
•Hastings and Prince Edward County
Home Educators and Learners
•Cornwall Ontario Homeschoolers
•Timmins and Area Homeschoolers
•Ecole à la Maison de Montreal Montreal Homeschool
New Brunswick
•Fredericton Secular Homeschoolers
•Moncton Homeschoolers
•Moncton Christian Home Educators
•Fundy Home Educators
•Charlotte County Home Schoolers
Nova Scotia
•Nova Scotia Support Groups Listings
(not only Facebook)
•South Shore Homeschoolers
•Special Needs Homeschooling Nova
Scotia
•Cape Breton Homeschoolers
•Antigonish Homeschool Group
•Annapolis Valley Community
Playgroup
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The following groups are not Canada-specific, but speciality groups that might be useful.
Faith (or non-faith) based Groups
•Muslim Homeschool and Education
•Christian Homeschool Families
•Secular Homeschool Families
Special Needs Groups
•Homeschooling on the spectrum:
Autism, aspergers, PDD
•Special Needs Homeschooling
•Special Needs Homeschool
Homeschooling Methods Groups
•Unschooling
•Charlotte Mason Homeschool
•Montessori Homeschooling
•Waldorf Homeschool Curriculum
Discussion
•Well Trained Mind (Classical)
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Now comes the part that most new (and many experienced) homeschoolers find
overwhelming: Choosing curriculum.
Before you dive headfirst into the (potentially bottomless) world of homeschooling books and
resources, I recommend that you start by researching two things: your child's learning style,
and the various homeschooling methods.
Learning Styles
Learning Styles are typically divided into 3 main options: visual, auditory, and kinetic. This is
really simplifying it as learning styles can be very complex, but this is a good place to start.
Visual = seeing.
Auditory = hearing.
Kinetic = moving/doing.
You will find you are better able to narrow down how your child best learns as your journey
progresses, but for now – it's a bit of a chance to use your observation skills and see how your
child understands the world around them.
A great resource to use is Kidzmet. For a $12.95US yearly membership fee, you can access an
online profile quiz that your child can complete to give you some terrific insight into their
learning style and personality. If your child is a non-reader, they can do the test by picking
from images. Or, you can read the text for them to choose from. Once completed, you will get
a profile that explains their personality type and learning style as well as some amazing tips
for how to best help your child succeed in their education. There is even a unique “learning
playbook” you can get that offers specific suggestions on teaching your child.
Once you have an idea of how your child best learns, it makes it easier to pick out a way to
teach.
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Homeschool Methods
Now, it's time to take what you've learnt about your child and combine it with your own
teaching style and preference.
NOTE: Before I move ahead, I did want to mention that secular and non-Christian
homeschoolers are going to find many of the resources that are popular in the
homeschool community and are readily available have either blatant faith-based
materials or come from that point-of-view. This can make it especially challenging
for someone looking for materials that keep religion out of their learning and
teaching experiences. But there are products for you out there – you just have to be
willing to research and look.
There are many different ways to homeschool. Here are the main ones:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
School at Home (or Traditional) – Basically the public school system brought into
your home, this method involves textbooks and notebooks - just like your child would
at school.
Classical – Dividing childhood up into three segments based on their natural abilities,
this language-centred method involves a lot of rote fact learning in the early years when
children love memorization, followed by application of logic in the middle years and
rhetoric in more advanced grades.
Charlotte Mason – Following the teachings of Charlotte Mason, who believed that
children should love to learn and as teachers we should facilitate that. This method
uses living books – typically fiction books that bring people and events to life.
Unschooling – Also referred to as child-led or delight-directed learning, unschooling
allows a child's interest, passions, and life experiences be the driving force behind their
education, instead of a curriculum plan.
Unit Studies – Focusing on one topic at a time and connecting other subjects such as
science, history, language, etc together based on that one subject.
Online or Video Schooling – Technologically based, this method uses either a
website or video that leads the kids through instructions and lessons, with various
different activities and reviews.
Montessori – Based on the research of Dr. Maria Montessori, this method involves
creating an environment that fosters and stimulates children to learn through selfdiscovery and exploration.
Eclectic – Combining the parts of any of the above methods, or using their own style,
this method involves a mix and match approach to learning, personalizing everything
to the child's learning.
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Most new homeschoolers, especially if their child has been in the school system, opt for the
traditional method of schooling because it's familiar and “safe.” True as this is, I challenge you
to be willing to explore the other methods to see what resonates best with you.
Sonya from SimplyCharlotteMason.com has created a terrific video that explains many of
these different styles, how they work, and a short “test” to see which appeals to you. It's called
the 5 Flavours of Homeschooling. [The important information about homeschooling
methods is presented in the first 20 minutes of the video. During the last 10 minutes of the
video, she explains how she arrived at the Charlotte Mason approach with her own children
and why she loves it, as well as information about her website.]
One highly-referenced and recommended resource is a book called 101 Top Picks for
Homeschool Curriculum by Cathy Duffy. Before suggesting this book to you, I'd like to be
clear that this book is both American and Christian based, so the writer uses that slant with
her writing. Even if you are not religious, many of the chapters at the beginning of the book
are fantastic at helping you examine your own ideas of what you feel your child should learn,
explaining each of the methods in detail, and breaking down what kinds of materials to look
for based on your child's learning style. It includes some worksheets and questionnaires to
work though to help you figure it all out.
If you are pulling your child out of the school system, you might hear the word “deschooling”
mentioned by veteran homeschoolers. Deschooling is when you take a period of time off
from the mindset and structured life that happens with public schooling. It means dropping
all formal education and letting your kid be free to do whatever they want for a while – allow
them to be aimless, be OK with them doing nothing all day, leave them to play, explore, and
pursue their own interests without the pressure of school. The challenging part of this
experience is your own personal preconceived expectations of education and learning. It's
hard to let go – even for a little while. Spend the time with your child and get to know them
better before getting into the plans of homeschooling.
Curriculum
Next, you have to decide if you are going to follow the curriculum as set out by the
government of your province (or if you are required to as mentioned in the legal obligations
above). If so, you can build your curriculum plans around these outlines and objectives. If not,
you are free to create your own plans however best suits you, your child, and the method that
you feel will work the best in your home.
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #20
Below are the website links to the learning outcomes created by the Ministry of Education for
each province. These are the curriculum goals put in place for each grade by subject.
Government Learning Outcomes
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British Columbia
Alberta
Saskatchewan
Manitoba
Ontario
Québec
New Brunswick
Nova Scotia
PEI
Newfoundland & Labrador
Yukon
Northwest Territories
Nunavut (not currently available online. This link is to the Education website.)
I am currently working on preparing curriculum checklists per grade and province. As I
complete them, they will be available on my website, under Downloads.
Curriculum Materials
To date, there are no Canadian specific curricula available to just pick up and use out of the
box. Most Canadian homeschoolers choose to either use and adapt an American curriculum or
mix and match to piece together their own. There are a LOT of options to choose from and it's
very easy to get overwhelmed.
Before you try to wade through the options, here's some questions that might help narrow it
down:
• Do you want Canadian content or are you fine using American content?
• Do you want everything to come pre-planned and ready to use out of the box?
• Is there a preferred curriculum used by the people in your support group?
• What are other homeschoolers in the method you want to follow using?
• What are other homeschoolers whose children have the same learning style as your
child using?
• Would you like to be able to see or use a sample or video before you commit?
• Are you looking for a faith-based curriculum?
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #21
Reading reviews of products is a great way to get feedback on what works and what doesn't for
different homeschooling families. Read the testimonials on the company website, search for
homeschooling blog reviews, see if there are any YouTube videos of people using the product.
If you can go to a homeschool conference, take the opportunity to meet the vendors, check out
the materials, and chat with other homeschoolers about what they like and don't like.
Note: One danger when buying curriculum is buying too much and spending too
much money. This is especially true in the first year or two of your journey when you
are trying to figure out what styles and products work best for you and your child.
Try to get a chance to look before you buy whenever possible, see if there are sample
units or pages on the company's website, borrow a book from a friend, or consider
buying used materials until you know what's right for you.
Also remember that if you do buy something that just doesn't fit – you don't HAVE to
stick with it. You are free to change and try something new.
A simple search engine search for homeschool curriculum will yield you a wide collection of
options. Typically, the big name ones are Christian American boxed sets – like Abeka, Alpha
Omega, and Sonlight. It can be hard to find Canadian materials, even when sifting hard
through results.
Many people opt to go with an American curriculum and modify, adapt, or add Canadian
content as needed. Although so many Canadians use American materials (and mention that
they wish there were Canadian editions!), the only company that I know of that has a
Canadian supplement is Weaver – a unit-study approach program.
The other option is to mix and match products based on what you would like to learn,
combining whatever materials work best. That means you can use Canadian or American (or
any!) materials.
Here are some popular Canadian products, by subject. Keep in mind that this is not a list of
every known Canadian resource. I've only put the ones that offer a full curriculum here – not
all the variety of different options available to teach with. Be sure to stop by The Canadian
Homeschooler for more reviews and posts on Canadian resources.
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #22
Math
Company Name
Description
The goal of JUMP math is to make mathematics understandable for
everyone, even those kids who struggle. This program offers two
workbooks per level with online teachers' guides for each, regular
in-person workshops to help you be able to teach math better, and
other online support. English materials for Grades 1 – 8. French
Immersion materials for Grades 1 – 6. Average cost per workbook is
$12. jumpmath.org
JUMP Math
Math-U-See Canada The Canadian edition of a homeschooling favourite math program,
Math-U-See uses a series of hands-on manipulatives and DVD
lessons to help make math visual. Instead of grade levels, the series
levels are based on Greek letters and placement tests are used to
figure out where your child should begin. To teach, you need to buy
a Teacher's Manuals with DVDs, manipulatives, and student
workbooks. Cost varies with each level and what you need for each.
www.mathusee.ca
The MathSmart series is the roots for a now extensive line of
Canadian based workbook resources. Offering comprehensive math
workbooks for preschool through Grade 9, these books are
presented in easy-to-use segments. There are no teacher guides
available, but teaching ideas are presented for each new topic –
along with examples and explanations, along with a midway review
and final tests per section. These books cost between $10-15 per
book. www.popularbook.ca
MathSmart
History/Geography/Social Studies
Donna Ward/
Northwoods Press
One of the top names in Canadian curriculum for grade level history
and geography, Donna Ward has 4 main books: Canada, My
Country, Courage & Conquest, Geography: Province to Province,
Canada's Natives Long Ago. Easy-to-follow lessons combined with
worksheets and resource lists including fiction and non-fiction
books, videos, & others to go with the topic. Bundles with extra
books and some digital ebook versions available. donnaward.net
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #23
Hands-On
Social Studies
Taking a hands-on approach to social studies, this lesson plan
resource was designed by and for teachers in a classroom, but can
be modified for homeschool use. Units are based on either Ontario
(to Grade 6) or Western protocol (to Grade 4) curriculum, broken
down into lessons and activities, with lists of needed materials,
worksheets to copy, and everything prepared to just get started and
go. Books are costly – somewhere around the $100-$150CDN
range, but are very detailed. www.portageandmainpress.com
Modern History
Through Canadian
Eyes
Covering history from the First Nations to today, this history
program combines resources like literature, non-fiction resources,
videos with hands on projects. This second edition costs $34 for a
188 page resource. www.solidoakpublishing.com
Science
Company Name
Description
ScienceSmart
From the Smart Series books, these Science workbooks are based
on the Ontario curriculum and include lessons, experiments,
worksheets, and other activities. Books are available for Grades 1-8.
Cost is about $17 per grade. www.popularbook.ca
Hands-On Science
Taking a hands-on approach to science, this lesson plan resource
was designed by and for teachers in a classroom setting, but can be
modified for homeschool use. Units are based on either Ontario (to
Grade 6) or Western protocol (to Grade 7) curriculum, broken down
into lessons and activities, with lists of needed materials,
worksheets to copy, and everything prepared to just get started and
go. Books are costly – somewhere around the $100-$150CDN
range, but are very detailed. www.portageandmainpress.com
Peppermint Stick
Science
A Christian Canadian homeschooling family has created an
elementary science program based on the Ontario curriculum. Two
options are available for JK-Gr. 3 science – either complete daily
science lessons for 30-33 weeks or in individual unit study format.
Costs are $75 for the complete book or around $20 per unit.
www.peppermintsticklearningco.com
English
Company Name
EnglishSmart
Description
From the Smart Series books, EnglishSmart workbooks include
reading and comprehension activities, grammar and language
knowledge, phonics, vocabulary, and writing practise. Books are
available for Grades 1-8. Cost is about $17 per grade.
www.popularbook.ca
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #24
Excellent
Resources:
Canadian Themed
Writing Lessons
Based on the Institute of Excellence in Writing, these Canadian
themed writing books combine video lessons with hands-on writing
activities. Themes include history, all things Canada, and relations
with the USA. Grade ranges are from Grades 2 – 9 depending on
the unit chosen. Print versions of the material are about $70. Digital
editions are $50. www.excellentresources.ca
Health
Company Name
Canadian Health
Activities
Description
A teacher's guide to teaching health using the Canadian curriculum.
Includes activities and lessons on nutrition, safety, physical activity
and more. There is one book for Grades 1-3 and another for Grades
4-6. Cost is $15 each. Ebook editions available.
www.chalkboardpublishing.com
Art
Company Name
Description
Canadian Artpack
Art lessons focused on 25 Canadian artists like Emily Carr, the
Group of Seven and more, including art activities, lapbook
materials, worksheets for studying artists, and more. Costs $49 for
the complete pack. www.mapletreepublications.ca
Anyone Can Draw
A Primary and Intermediate books and DVDs of step-by-step
drawing lessons using basic shapes. Also a new book about using
watercolours, pastels and charcoal. PDF workbooks are $12 and
$22. DVDs are $25 or $35. www.anyonecandraw.ca
Canadian Art Ideas Three books (K-1, Grades 2-4 & Grades 5+) that explore art through
lessons inspired on seasons and Canadian artists. These are teacher
guides of activities. Books are $15 each.
www.chalkboardpublishing.com
French
Company Name
Description
FrenchSmart
For Grades 4-8, these workbooks are part of the SmartSeries of
books. Focusing exercises on vocabulary, grammar, comprehension,
and reading – these books are a fun way to work on developing
French skills. Books are ~$20 each. www.popularbook.ca
Nallenart
Divided into 3 levels: Say (Dire) for K-Grade 3, Read (Lire) for
Grades 3 to 8, and Write (Ecrire) for Grade 9 – these books include
a student workbook, audio files, and a teacher's answer guide. The
complete kits cost about $30-$40 each. www.nellenart.com
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #25
Where to Buy Materials
One challenge of homeschooling in Canada is finding a place to get your materials from.
Shipping from across the border can be very costly. Be sure to visit the publisher websites,
look for local used curriculum sales, and shop on Amazon.ca.
Used
Homeschool Swap: Canada
Homeschool Canada Store
A Facebook group of Canadian homeschoolers
who are selling or looking for materials.
An online consignment store of new and
used books
Stores
Canadian Home Education Resources
Also known as CHER. One of the largest and
most well-known homeschooling resource
stores in Canada. Catalogue includes many of
the most popular curriculum materials as well
as many top Canadian products. Showroom
based out of Calgary, Alberta.
Cornerstone Learning Resources
The Learning House
Distributors of popular homeschooling
materials and many Canadian resources.
Storefront located in Goderich, Ontario.
A+ Books Canada
An online store with a lot of popular
homeschooling resources and Canadian
books & videos. Based out of London,
Ontario.
Scholar's Choice
The Teacher Store. This store has teaching
supplies for classes and home! Posters,
games, manipulatives, books, toys, and much
more.
Tree of Life
Based out of Kelowna, BC, this bookstore
offers a large collection of books and
resources, including BC specific curriculum
bundles that meet the prescribed outcomes.
Specializing in Classical and Christian
homeschool materials, this online store is
based in New Brunswick.
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #26
If you are looking at homeschooling through high school, the first decision that you need to
make is if the final goal is to get an official diploma or if that even matters to you.
The usual reason for debate over this decision is because of question about homeschoolers
being accepted into a post-secondary education without a high school diploma. Where once
homeschoolers may have faced challenges with admissions, as homeschooling continues to
become a more mainstream method of education, post-secondary schools are starting to offer
admission policies especially for students schooled at home.
A good resource for this is UniversityAdmissions.ca – a site by Sarah Rainsberger about
homeschooling and some options about how to get into post-secondary without a diploma.
Options for high school courses and learning can include:
• purchased homeschool curriculum
• DIY courses
• virtual (online) courses
• correspondence programs
This is a good time to really evaluate passions and goals for your student's current and future
life.
What do they want to become & what do they need to know in order to get there?
Some other great resources are:
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The Duke of Edinburgh Award – a challenge program for teens ages 14 and up that
requires them to work through a series of personal goals and achievements to receive a
prestigious award.
Peppermint Stick Learning Co – High School Resources
Donna Ward – Canada in the 20th Century High School Course
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #27
Although different provincial regulations and teaching methods require different amounts of
detail for plans, actually having some sort of plan is definitely essential to every
homeschool. [Yes, even unschoolers!]
The Learning Space
When you first start homeschooling, you need to have a plan about where in your home your
child is going to “do school.” Many people just use their kitchen or dining room table,
especially at first. Avoid the temptation of sinking large amounts of money on furniture and
supplies off the start – wait until you settle into your homeschooling styles and routine to see
what would work best for your family. The only furniture you may want to consider is a
bookshelf – this will be very handy!
Yearly Outline
Having an idea of what you kind of oversee the whole year encompassing is a good place to
start – whether that be taking a look through your planned curriculum and seeing what you
are going to cover or coming up with a set of learning goals for your children.
Here’s an idea that you can do with your children – have them create a vision board for the
year. Cut/paste pictures or words of things they want to accomplish or attempt throughout the
school year. You can divide up the page into sections to focus on, like academics, social,
spiritual, physical, financial, etc. This is a great way to see what your child’s goals are, and to
help them figure out what steps they need to take to get there. Here’s a great example of how
one family did their annual plan with their Learning consultant with a large sheet of
paper and some thinking.
Weekly Plans
Making an outline of what you want to accomplish during the week, no matter how detailed or
vague that will be, is a great way to follow through and succeed at finishing them.
Personally, I find when I’ve spent time planning out our week, that we get done what I wanted
done – instead of just winging it and then wondering what we’ve spent our time doing over
the last few days. The one resource that I’ve found super helpful is a lesson planner.
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #28
Daily Plan
Having a way for your kids to visually see what they are expected to accomplish in their day is
a great way to get them on board, avoid arguments, and make it easy for them to develop
independence. Here are a few ways that you can do that:
•A Checklist– Just writing down what you want done in the day and letting your child
check things off as finished is a terrific and simple way to have a daily plan. Don't forget
you can add chores and out-of-the-house activities too! Some great ideas for this are to:
•use a whiteboard to write the list and erase as done
•use a paper checklist (I've added one on the next page that you can print/copy
or create your own Student Daily Work Checklist)
•use a digital list with check boxes, with a program such as Evernote
•Visual Charts – Sometimes, seeing pictures is the best way to understand what
needs to be done in the day. I have at least 1 kid who really excels when I remember to
use this method with him. I took a clipboard, added a whiteboard sticker page and
separated it into squares. On each square I place a card with an image/title related to
what he needs to work on. When he’s finished that task, he flips the card over and can
move onto the next card. When all the cards are flipped over, he’s done everything I
need him to do for the day. It’s pretty easy and effective. The cards I created and
downloaded off of a great website called Mrs. Riley, a terrific website!
•Workbox System – For many years now, there’s a buzz in the homeschool
community about a method of daily organization called “workboxes.” Basically you
have a set of containers of some sort, and label each with a subject & number using
velcro dots. Each bin is filled with subject by subject work to do, or a snack or free play,
or chore cards, or whatever you need. Your child starts at bin 1 and when finished what
is inside– moves that number to a chart and then starts on bin 2 – repeating until all
the bins are done for the day.
Once you find a method that works for you, stick with it. It will make this homeschool journey
much easier for both you, your kids, and any record keeping you need or want to do.
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #29
Today's To-Do List
Name:__________________________ Day: ___________________________
Subject
To Do
Done
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #30
This section is called “Never Stop Learning” because, honestly, that’s the base of it all:
Learning. And I’m not talking about the kids. I’m talking about us. The teacher. WE have so
much we need to learn as we walk this journey.
1. We need to learn patience.
Ok, so we may never get there. In all likelihood, we won’t ever succeed as being the patientfilled parent we want to be, but in order to be a successful homeschooling parent – it should
be something we strive for. Let’s face it – we are literally with our kids all the time. That
means that we are teacher, parent, supervisor, counsellor, entertainer, chauffeur, chef….. well,
you get the picture. Being together that much can lead to periods of friction. And trust me,
your kids know exactly how to push your buttons and push they shall. Patience is a skill that
we, as the parent should aim to have. It’s hard for everyone when there’s tension in the home.
2. We need to learn to ignore the voices of opposition.
You know the ones. The voices we hear inside and out that question our plans and tell us what
we’re doing wrong, that fill us with self-doubt and uncertainty. It is really, REALLY hard when
you are new to homeschooling and have someone (especially when it’s a close friend or family
member) think what you are doing is wrong. You need to learn to ignore those voices. Stand
up for what you are doing. Remember when I told you to write down those reasons for
homeschooling? When those voices get too loud to fight off – that’s the time to look at them
again. Refresh yourself on the roots of your homeschool and standfast. You started on this
journey with purpose – don’t let yourself or anyone else take that away from you.
3. We need to learn to listen.
One of the most amazing gifts that homeschooling can offer is the opportunity to have a
constant communication with our kids. The hard part is the we have to remember to actually
listen to what they are sharing with us. Open communication is the key to a loving, lasting
relationship. Hear your kids’ hearts. PLUS – we need to learn to listen to advice and
suggestions from the people we respect and admire in our homeschooling community.
Feedback should be welcome (even if we have to filter it through our own personal experience
and knowledge.). You never know how it could positively impact your life/family/schooling.
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #31
4. We need to learn how our children learn.
Figuring out how your child learns most effectively means that you can help them succeed in
anything you try to teach them. Don’t be afraid to try many different things while you try to
understand your child’s best method – and don’t be afraid to stretch the weaker learning
styles too.
5. We need to learn to love learning.
Guess what? If you love something, your kids will pick up on that. If you have a passion for
learning, they are going to get that excitement and interest from you. It’s far too easy to feel
that we’ve been there, done that with our own school experiences. But, as homeschoolers, we
get to learn it all over again with our kids. Honestly, it’s amazing how much I’ve been able to
relearn and refresh in my own knowledge just by teaching it to my kids. Build that love of
learning, and get them excited to learn along with you.
6. We need to learn to relax, have fun, and enjoy the journey.
Homeschooling can be overwhelming. There’s so much to… well.. learn and do. But one of the
most important things we need to learn is just how to enjoy the journey. Laugh lots. Take time
to build relationships with our kids. Relax. They will learn what they need to learn. You can do
this.
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #32
If you are considering homeschooling in British Columbia, here are the basics that you need to
know:
Homeschool Regulations
In British Columbia, there are actually 2 main options for learning at home. One is called
Distributed Learning (enrolling) and the other is actually homeschooling (registering). There
is a big difference between the two – with homeschooling being more independent whereas
distributed learning is more intended to be “school at home.”
Homeschoolers in this province get financial support to help them pay for their books and
activities. It varies according to how you homeschool and other factors.
•Government Requirements
•The Difference Between Distributed Learning and Homeschool
Prescribed Learning Outcomes
The Ministry of Education sets education standards for students through a provincial
curriculum. These learning outcomes are guidelines of what students should know and be able
to do at each grade for each subject.
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British Columbia
Support
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BC Home Learners Association
BC Unschoolers/Homeschoolers (Facebook Group)
Provincial Association of Homeschoolers of British Columbia
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #33
If you are considering homeschooling in Alberta, here are the basics you need to know:
Homeschool Regulations
In Alberta, families who homeschool are required to register with a willing board somewhere
in the province and have their plans approved. There are 3 options to choose from –
completely doing your own plans, following some of the government curriculum outlines, or
completely following the school plans. You are assigned a facilitator who visits you several
times during the course of the year.
This province offers funding to families who homeschool, depending on what school board
and method of schooling you choose.
•Government Requirements
•Alberta Home Education Handbook
Learning Outcomes
The Ministry of Education sets education standards for students through a provincial
curriculum. These learning outcomes are guidelines of what students should know and be able
to do at each grade for each subject.
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Alberta
Support
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Alberta Home Education Association
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #34
If you are considering homeschooling in Saskatchewan, here are the basics you need to know:
Homeschool Regulations
Homeschoolers in Saskatchewan are required to register with their school board and provide
an educational plan for each child. Throughout the year, they need to keep a portfolio of their
work which they present at the end of the year.
Funding for homeschoolers varies according to district.
•Government Requirements
Learning Outcomes
The Ministry of Education sets education standards for students through a provincial
curriculum. These learning outcomes are guidelines of what students should know and be able
to do at each grade for each subject.
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Saskatchewan
Support
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Saskatchewan Home Based Educators
I homeschool in Saskatchewan!
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #35
If you are considering homeschooling in Manitoba, here are the basics you need to know:
Homeschool Regulations
In Manitoba, homeschoolers need to inform the government that they are homeschooling. In
January and again in June, an official report is filed outlining the learning completed.
This province offers no funding to homeschooling families.
•
Government Requirements
Learning Outcomes
The Ministry of Education sets education standards for students through a provincial
curriculum. These learning outcomes are guidelines of what students should know and be able
to do at each grade for each subject.
•
Manitoba
Support
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Manitoba Association for Schooling at Home
Manitoba Association for School at Home (on Facebook)
Manitoba Association of Christian Homeschools
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #36
If you are considering homeschooling in Ontario, here are the basics you need to know:
Homeschool Regulations
Ontario homeschoolers are requested to submit a letter of intent to their local school board.
Other than this letter, there is no other requirement or involvement from the government.
This province offers no funding to homeschooling families.
•
Government Requirements
Learning Outcomes
The Ministry of Education sets education standards for students through a provincial
curriculum. These learning outcomes are guidelines of what students should know and be able
to do at each grade for each subject.
•
Ontario
Support
•
•
•
Ontario Federation of Teaching Parents
Ontario Christian Home-Educator's Connection
Ontario Homeschoolers (on Facebook)
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #37
If you are considering homeschooling in Québec, here are the basics you need to know:
Homeschool Regulations
Although homeschooling in Québec is completely legal, this province seems to also have the
most challenges with acceptance from their school boards. It is highly recommended to get a
membership with the Homeschool Legal Defence Association (HSLDA) in order to have
legal protection as needed. Please connect with a homeschool association in the province and
the HSLDA for complete details about what is required for homeschoolers in Québec.
This province offers no funding to homeschooling families.
•
Education Act
Learning Outcomes
The Ministry of Education sets education standards for students through a provincial
curriculum. These learning outcomes are guidelines of what students should know and be able
to do at each grade for each subject.
•
Québec
Support
•
•
•
Association Québécoise pour l’éducation à domicile (French site)
Association of Christian Parent Educators of Québec (bilingual site)
Association d'Enfants Scolarisés à la Maison (AESM)/Association of
Children Educated at Home (ACEH)
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #38
If you are considering homeschooling in New Brunswick, here are the basics you need to
know:
Homeschool Regulations
In New Brunswick, homeschooling families have to either register with an English or a French
board. The Anglophone board requires submission of a fairly basic set of forms and will
respond with a letter of approval. The Francophone board is more complex – requiring a more
detailed application outlining your homeschooling plans along with an in-home interview.
This province offers no funding to homeschooling families.
•
•
Government Requirements
Homeschooling in New Brunswick (English Brochure)
Learning Outcomes
The Ministry of Education sets education standards for students through a provincial
curriculum. These learning outcomes are guidelines of what students should know and be able
to do at each grade for each subject.
•
New Brunswick
Support
•
Home Educators of New Brunswick
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #39
If you are considering homeschooling in Nova Scotia, here are the basics you need to know:
Homeschool Regulations
In Nova Scotia, parents are required to register their child using a form that is available on the
Ministry of Education's website. In June, parents need to follow that up with a progress
report, outlining what their child learnt throughout the year.
This province offers no funding to homeschooling families.
•
Government Requirements
Learning Outcomes
The Ministry of Education sets education standards for students through a provincial
curriculum. These learning outcomes are guidelines of what students should know and be able
to do at each grade for each subject.
•
Nova Scotia
Support
•
Nova Scotia Home Education Association
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #40
If you are considering homeschooling in Prince Edward Island, here are the basics you need to
know:
Homeschool Regulations
All that is required for PEI homeschoolers is to fill out and submit a notice of intent form.
This province offers no funding to homeschooling families.
•
Government Requirements
Learning Outcomes
The Ministry of Education sets education standards for students through a provincial
curriculum. These learning outcomes are guidelines of what students should know and be able
to do at each grade for each subject.
•
PEI
Support
•
PEI Homeschool.com
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #41
If you are considering homeschooling in Newfoundland or Labrador, here are the basics you
need to know:
Homeschool Regulations
Recent changes to the school districts have left homeschoolers in Newfoundland and
Labrador without direct information on what is required at this time. Previously, there were
four different regions, each with their own homeschooling requirements, but now everything
has been combined into a single board and official homeschool regulations aren't completed
yet. Homeschooling in each region is currently done case by case. It is recommended to keep
in contact with the HSLDA.
•
Government Website
Learning Outcomes
The Ministry of Education sets education standards for students through a provincial
curriculum. These learning outcomes are guidelines of what students should know and be able
to do at each grade for each subject.
•
Newfoundland & Labrador
Support
•
Christian Home Educators of Newfoundland and Labrador
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #42
If you are considering homeschooling in the Yukon, here are the basics you need to know:
Homeschool Regulations
Yukon homeschoolers need to register with the Aurora Virtual School, who co-ordinate the
home education program for Yukon Education. Along with registration, submission of a
home education plan is required that outlines the plans and learning outcomes for the year
divided into four semesters. The Yukon uses the British Columbia curriculum outline for their
guidelines.
Funding is provided for homeschoolers in this province.
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Government Requirements
Home Education Handbook (as of 2014)
Learning Outcomes
The Ministry of Education sets education standards for students through a provincial
curriculum. These learning outcomes are guidelines of what students should know and be able
to do at each grade for each subject.
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Yukon
Support
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Northern Canada Home Based Learning (Facebook Group)
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #43
If you are considering homeschooling in the Northwest Territories, here are the basics you
need to know:
Homeschool Regulations
In the Northwest Territories, parents register their children with their local school, where they
are classified as students but are exempt from attendance.
Homeschoolers in this province get a portion of the funding from the school to help pay for
their school expenses.
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Government Requirements
Learning Outcomes
The Ministry of Education sets education standards for students through a provincial
curriculum. These learning outcomes are guidelines of what students should know and be able
to do at each grade for each subject.
•
Northwest Territories
Support
•
Northern Canada Home Based Learning (Facebook Group)
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #44
If you are considering homeschooling in Nunvut, here are the basics you need to know:
Homeschool Regulations
Homeschooling in Nunavut involves registering with their local school and working with the
leadership in that school. Inclusion of Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (IQ) – or the teaching of Inuit
societal values and culture is to be included in a homeschool education.
Homeschoolers in this province get a portion of the funding from the school to help pay for
their school expenses.
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Government Regulations (see section 21)
Learning Outcomes
The Ministry of Education sets education standards for students through a provincial
curriculum. These learning outcomes are guidelines of what students should know and be able
to do at each grade for each subject. Although Nunavut's curriculum is not currently available
online, here is the website to find more information.
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Nunavut
Support
•
Northern Canada Home Based Learning (Facebook Group)
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #45
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The Truth About Homeschooling: Myths Debunked
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10 FAQs about Homeschooling in Canada
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Homeschool in Canada: Research and Statistics - Fifteen Years Later: HomeEducated Canadian Adults & Home Education in Canada: A Report on the PanCanadian Study on Home Education 2003
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Real-Life Success Stories
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French as a Second Language Resources
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Canadian Homeschooling Blogs
Conferences are a great resource for homeschooling families. They offer a chance for you to
connect with other homeschoolers, listen to experts share their wisdom, and interact with
vendors of curriculum materials. It's a unique opportunity to get hands-on with a variety of
products, to see what they are like and if they might be useful for your family.
Most homeschooling conferences are held in the spring season. If you are looking for a
homeschool conference, here are two websites to reference:
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Joy of Learning Centre Conferences & Events
HSLDA Conference Listings
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #46
My name is Lisa Marie Fletcher. I'm a homeschooling mom from Ontario who has a passion
for helping others on their homeschooling journey. I have 4 boys – currently ranging in age
from 10 to 1. We've homeschooled since the beginning and haven't looked back.
When my oldest started school, we chose an American Christian boxed curriculum that came
highly recommended by my already homeschooling sister-in-laws. While the program was
excellent, I struggled with all the Americana that just didn't fit into my personal preference. I
went on a hunt for a Canadian alternative. It was a very hard search, and involved a lot of finetooth combing and research.
I decided to start The Canadian Homeschooler as a way to share what resources I'd
found. After all, there had to be other Canadians looking for the same thing! I wasn't wrong.
From there, the journey has lead to helping try and build a community amongst Canadian
homeschoolers through Facebook and Twitter. I am super excited to see us coming
together to support and encourage one another.
My heart is still to bring Canadian resources to Canadian homeschoolers – and so I continue
to work towards that goal, aiming to help fill the holes in the market and connect the
businesses with the people who need their products/services. I'm looking forward to seeing
where this path leads.
I'd like to thank my support network for encouraging me towards that goal, including this
book. Thank you to the group of people who took time to read through this book, tell me what
was missing and proofread through it – Shari, Sarah, Lee, Miriam, and others. Your input
was invaluable.
I hope this book, and everything I have planned for the future, helps our Canadian
Homeschooling Community grow bigger and stronger. Thanks for being part of it.
~Lisa Marie Fletcher
How to Homeschool in Canada – thecanadianhomeschooler.com - Page #47