I want to say hello to everyone.  My name is Heather, mom to Autumn 9, Aspen 7, and Charisma 6. This is a big scary step for us. We have been at a private Christian school but cost is becoming prohibitive for us.  My greatest feat about homeschooling is that I am underqualified, ill prepared and just generally do not know how to teach my kids at home. So I am looking  for friends, advice, and support. Thank you to everyone who takes the time to read and reply to this. Heather

Hi Heather!

Welcome to homeschooling!  Your feelings about being underqualified & ill prepared are absolutely normal - that's pretty much how we all started.  It shows that you are concerned about doing a good job with your kids, and for that reason, you will.   I highly recommend attending the upcoming CAPE (Christian Association of Parent Educators) homeschool convention.  http://www.cape-nm.org  It runs April 14-16, and on the first day they typically have a "Just Starting To Homeschool" 2 hour class that is free, even if you don't register for the rest of the convention.

Best wishes for your new adventure!

Hope you'll come out to park day tomorrow - it's supposed to be a beautiful day!  Your children will have a great time and you can meet the other parents.

Hello and welcome!

I think everyone who homeschools their children can identify with your fears...those New Homeschooler Jitters.

Here is the link for parkday: http://www.abqhomeschool.com/cgi-bin/forum/Blah.pl?b-1.7/m-1245289988/ Please consider coming.  You'll meet lots of homeschoolers, both new and veteran, and  you'll be able to talk with others about your worries.  Just being around others who are doing it is sure to bolster your confidence!  And the kids are going to have a blast!  We have lots of kids in the same age range of your kids.  If they like to ride bikes or scooters or whatever, feel free to bring them; there's tons of room for riding the transportation of choice.  You could also bring a blanket and some snacks and water, too.

We try to keep our eyes open for new people, but please don't hesitate to walk right up to the group.

I look forward to meeting you soon

Hi, Heather.

My daughter was in Christian school also.  This is our first year to homeschool.  My daughter, Annie, is 8 1/2, and is in 3rd grade.  My son, Aeon, is 5 1/2, and is in kindergarten.  I also have a 2 1/2 yr. old and 1 yr. old.  It has taken some adjusting, but it has been fun.  The kids seem to be doing great.  We would love to meet you.  I haven't been going to park days because my youngest two have been sleeping.  We live in the Northeast Heights.  Maybe we can arrange a time to get together.

Stephanie