State laws change from time to time and though we try to keep the laws up-to-date at all times please check with the department of education for any changes that may have occurred.
There are many reasons to seriously consider homeschooling: you’re in control of what your children are learning, you get to decide how much time you want to spend on different subjects, you can adapt the material to suit your children’s needs, and you don’t have to worry about your children dealing with schoolyard bullies.
Whether you’ve already made this decision or you just plan to, we’re here to show you how to start homeschooling in NJ. We’ll help you make full use of the educational potential of New Jersey, let you in on the New Jersey homeschool laws, and offer you a diverse range of useful online homeschool resources that will guarantee your homeschooling success. Use the infographic and video below to create a homeschool that thrives.
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The Garden State
New Jersey is a beautiful little state with just about everything you need to get yourself and your children into some real-life, first-hand learning experiences.
To begin with, The Garden State really does boast some of the most beautiful natural parks in the US – and they’re really varied, too. From to meandering hiking trails of the South Mountain Reservation to the serene Island Beach State Park, there’s a natural spot for absolutely everyone.
You’ve also got plenty of opportunities to admire the wildlife, both local and international. There’s the Lakota Wolf Preserve in Columbia, where you can see lots of wolves and other local fauna, and then you’ve got great bird watching spots, like the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, in Oceanville, or the Raptor Trust Center, in Millington.
You’re also covered if your children are into arts or history. The Princeton Art Museum highlights some of the world’s best artists, and the Old Barracks Museum offers a great all-around picture of US history.
New Jersey Homeschool Laws
NJ is probably one of the most relaxed states when it comes to homeschooling legislation. There’s really no paper work that you’re required to put in, no notice of intent, no qualifications, no bookkeeping and no assessment.
While that doesn’t mean you don’t have to keep a close track of your children’s education – after all, this may be one of the reason’s you’re deciding to homeschool in the first place – knowing that you can go about it in your own way and at your own pace is a great advantage.
Another bonus is that you can also enroll your children part-time in the local public school, if you want to, and if your local districts offers this option. The same applies for your children participating in extracurricular activities.
On the downside – but that’s really a small issue, since we’re sure you’ll never be in this situation – educational failure is considered neglect, and, if reported, you’ll have to prove that you’re providing adequate instruction.
All in all, the legal homeschooling requirements in NJ are so few that you don’t even have to think of them. Strive to offer your children the education you think suits them best, and you’ll have a great time homeschooling in NJ.
Homeschooling in New Jersey Friendliness Grade
With such an easy-to-navigate legal system and the plethora of educational possibilities, there’s no other grade but the mighty A for the beautiful New Jersey. Go out and have fun education your children today – you’re in one of the best places to do so.
Conclusion
If you plan to home school, NJ is a great place to start – the state offers lots of learning opportunities, from natural to historic, and the state legislation is very permissive. Take advantage of everything New Jersey has to offer by joining one of the most active homeschooling communities in the US, and start homeschooling today. For any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us – we’d be more than happy to help you learn how to homeschool in NJ.
Resources
Here’s a selection of websites related to home schooling in NJ:
http://www.responsiblehomeschooling.org/policy-issues/current-policy/ - everything you need to know about homeschooling in NJ; where to start and in be accordance with the laws
http://www.state.nj.us/education/genfo/faq/faq_homeschool.htm - the official website of the New Jersey Department of Education has a dedicated FAQ page where you should find answers to your legal questions
http://www.meetup.com/NJHomeschoolHangout/ - a lovely NJ homeschooling group, and extremely active, too. You’ll find everything you need here – from curricular resources to field trips
http://clepprep.tripod.com/njhomeschoolsports/ - this is a sports association dedicated to homeschooled children