Finding a local support group as an ongoing resource is key to the homeschooling experience. Not only do local support groups provide an outlet to receive and share information and resources, but they typically plan ongoing activities for homeschooled students to address the social aspect of education along with the academic aspect. Find a local support group through your religious organization or by searching online. For example, the L.E.A.R.N. Home Education Network is a resource for families in the Kansas City, Missouri area.
For questions about accreditation, curriculum, transfer credit and other topics related to state standards for homeschooled children, the Missouri Department of Education is a necessary resource. The governmental agency provides the information and other potential resources for Missouri parents about homeschooling. According to the Missouri State Board of Education, there is no state program for the inspection, approval or accreditation of Missouri homeschools.
National organizations, such as the National Homeschool Association or National Home Education Network, provide links to other national and state resources available to Missouri homeschoolers. Finding national resources can help draw on broader experience and ideas about offering a home-based education. National organizations can also play a role in suggesting or providing curriculum or textbook materials for Missouri homeschool students.
Connecting online with homeschool parents, religious organizations or nonprofit groups in Missouri can open a host of resources outside of your local area. The Home School Classifieds website provides a list of contact information for dozens of support groups throughout Missouri. Some national organizations, such as The Home School Mom, have Web pages designed for states like Missouri to provide resources such as homeschooling events or statewide organizations.