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ShareHow do I set the right curriculum?
Certain children choose to follow the regular course prescribed in schools, which they study at home. In this case, children study the same subjects and books they would in a classroom, but in a more personalised manner. Parents can arrange for their children to take exams as private candidates at a regular school.
Others adopt a more liberal approach, mixing advanced levels in subjects their children are comfortable with while going easy on the difficult areas. Another option is to avoid curriculum-based studies entirely, letting children choose what they want to learn, with no structured timetables or course material.
Where can I get material to teach my child?
Special course material and educational tools are available for home taught children abroad, but these tend to be expensive.In India, most parents get by using a mix of schoolbooks, magazines and a heavy helping of the Internet. Educational CD ROMs and television programming are also favoured tools, as are simple games and props for teaching maths and spellings.
What are the best websites I can use for support?
In India, www.alternativeducationinindia.net is a useful site for homeschoolers from across the country, with contact groups for different cities including Mumbai. The Home Schooling Legal Defence Association (HSLDA) links to www.youcanhomeschool.org, with tips for getting started. It also hostsan online curricula market where homeschoolers can trade course materials and books. www.holtgws.com is an introduction to homeschooling through the works of pioneering reformer John Holt, with links to books, resources and private consultations.
Exam options for homeschooled kids
The National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS). Homeschoolers can directly use NIOS to take the exams for class X and XII. They are only required to register with the body a year before they want to take the exam. Certificates issued by NIOS carry the same recognition as other Boards and are valid for taking competitive exams.
Students can also explore appearing for CBSE and ICSE Boards directly at X and XII levels as private candidates. Each state has its own requirements for this provision.
The British Council conducts examinations for the General Certificate of Education (GCE), an internationally recognised system at the O and A levels. Study circles help prepare students with course material, tests and guidance.
