More parents are opting for online homeschool programs, also known as the virtual school. Online homeschooling is available for Elementary School, Middle School and High School.

There are a few things that must be considered before choosing an online homeschool program.

• Academic subjects being covered
• Grade level the course intends to cater to
• If the program provides individual courses
• If they are live classes or self- pace classes
• Cost of the program
• Frequency of assessment and if performance of the child is communicated to the parent

There are a few top online home schools.

• Epic Charter School – This tuition-free public school is for elementary students to high school students. It is accredited by Oklahoma State Department of Education.
• Whitmore School – It is an accredited online school which provides 24/7 accesses to its students.
• K12 – Being the largest online school, it is known for free public and tuition based private providers.
• The Keystone School – It offers individual and customized courses to students for more flexibility.
• Florida Virtual School – This online school offers coursework to the above-mentioned K12 online homeschool.

Benefits of online homeschool programs for your kids

1. Flexibility

The online homeschools provide you with the flexibility of learning anytime and anywhere. All you need is an Internet connection. You also don’t have to worry about your child lagging behind the course; your child can study at his own pace and at his/ her own comfort. However, there maybe some days when your child needs to attend live classes.

2. Experts

Online homeschooling has only professionals and experts with notable credentials. They are more knowledgeable and experienced than classroom teachers. These experts are available at all times through online assistance and provide your child with the best possible solutions.

3. Helpful for future references

Students learn and experience the processes of logging into classrooms, submitting assignments, communicating with online instructors, and collaborating with other students.

4. Cost Effective

Online home schools are more cost effective than regular schooling. You pay for books, study material and other resources in a single installment. Books and other study materials are delivered at your home and you also have the choice of downloading the resources for future references.

5. No barriers attached
They are beneficial for home-bound kids due to medical issues, child artists, athletes and children who do not live at the same place for a long time. Other students who have been bullied at school before and cannot find the courage to attend on-campus classes, online homeschool programs are their best option.

6. Customized training
Virtual classes can be customized according to one’s academic needs. You can choose subjects from 2000 options according to your child’s strength and interests.

7. Regular Assessment

Students need to take regular tests and the report marks your child’s strength and weaknesses. Parents are notified about the child’s performance through emails and texts.

8. Safe Environment

Online homeschooling provides a bullying-free environment. This platform is free from negative peer pressure and teasing.

Most common homeschooling philosophies and curricula are listed below:

1. Classical or Socratic Education – Taught by the Socrates, classical education is based on the idea of passing the education through various development levels.
2. Unschooling- Focuses on what to learn rather than how to learn, and makes education more about learning rather than grades.
3. Biblical Education – For Christian families who want their child to learn about Jesus and faith along with studies.
4. Charlotte Mason Education – Runs on the ideals of British educator Charlotte Mason who said that lessons should not be of more than 20 minutes.
5. Waldrof Education – Based on the ideals of Australian philosopher Rudolf Steiner who deigned education program for the employees of Waldrof Austria Hotel.
6. Montessori Education – Founded by Italian educator, Maria Montessori.
7. Project based DIY Homeschooling – Encourages students to learn by making projects.
8. Unit Studies –Based on the idea of focusing on one topic at a time.
9. Eclectic Homeschooling – Uses multiple methods and resources throughout the day.