Some states have little to no regulations in place to monitor the progress of home-educated youth. Other states require attendance records, testing scores, curriculum approval, home visits by officials and qualified home educators. According to the Home School Legal Defense Association, it is essential that home educators follow the regulations of the state in which they are educating to maintain compliance with state laws -- even if physical presence in the state is only temporary.
Several different homeschool styles educate youth in the United States. According to the National Home Education Network there are at least eight commonly practiced styles of home schooling: Charlotte Mason, Classical, Relaxed, Eclectic, Montessori, Unit Studies, Lapbooking and Unschooled. Each of these styles approaches learning in a different way that suit the needs of the educator and the child. However, some home educators develop their own unique method of homeschooling.
Some home educators and children find it important to belong to a community of other homeschoolers to find educational support and socialization. A co-op often provides needed resources, whether it is a simple need to practice group sports or to share teaching skills. Every member of the co-op must take an active role in providing some skill or organizational ability to keep the group functioning. The co-op is self-regulating.
Home educators should choose a curriculum based on their individual needs and expectations. Different curriculum models are available. It is essential that educators do ample research into different curriculum packages and match them with the style that suits their needs before they begin using the curriculum. Some states must approve certain curricula for use and the National Home Education Network is an excellent place to begin comparing different curricula. Make sure that the curriculum you choose matches your style, expectations and the homeschool regulations of the state.