Homeschooling a child through Kindergarten has gained momentum over the past decade. And why not, since it produces smart, confident kids who excel in academics later on. Children do not get proper credit even if the parent and child put a lot of effort into homeschooling.
Therefore, if you are planning to homeschool your child for Kindergarten, it is vital to choose a well-accredited program to avoid problems later when your child is ready to go to school.
What Is Accreditation and Its Process
Accreditation in the United States means that an external agency has reviewed a program against a set standard and has certified that the kindergarten homeschool curriculum or program meets the desired standards which is done for institutions.
It is done through a peer-review process in which senior faculty from accredited institutions of repute conduct evaluation of non-accredited institutions and programs. This process is quite comprehensive and involves the following steps:
- The applying body or organization is required to perform a self-assessment of their processes, programs, staff, and academic requirements. The accrediting body then reviews this.
- Suppose the self-assessment report meets the requirements of the accrediting body. In that case, they then move to the candidacy stage, where they continue to review their policies, procedures, etc., and identify weak areas. They also start getting the documents ready for the site review as required by the accrediting body.
- The next stage is the on-site review wherein the accrediting body will visit the premises of the school or organization’s office and conduct an in-depth review of the business practices, procedures, analyze the programs, curriculum, and class visits.
- A final report is issued following the site visit, whether accreditation has been approved or denied, and areas for improvement before the next application can be considered.
Accreditation, however, isn’t a one-time thing. It’s to be renewed periodically to remain accredited to the accrediting body or board.
Importance of Kindergarten Homeschool Curriculum Accreditation
While many parents prefer the customized route to homeschool through Kindergarten, it is always better to go for enrolled homeschooling with accredited institutions, so you are assured that your child is up to date with the educational level when they enter elementary school.
Offers Quality Education
Accreditation assures that there is an adherence to a standard. Moreover, as a parent, you have peace of mind knowing that your child is enrolled in a recognized, reviewed, and approved program by a governing body.
Allows a Transfer of Credits
Every state has a list of recognized distance learning or homeschooling course providers. So if your child has completed the course with a state-approved provider, his credits can easily be transferred, and admission into the next grade is smooth and easy.
Ensures Blended Learning Experiences
An accredited homeschool program is similar to a distance learning program that follows a blend of online and offline classroom sessions. Your child can attend online classes on a computer, complete the provided activities, and assignments as directed. Most accredited kindergarten programs have videos, study kits, and other online resources for parents to teach their children.
Mind you, though, an accredited kindergarten homeschool curriculum does not guarantee the quality or that your child will be accepted in a public or private school. Your child will still need to fulfill other admission criteria like a test. The program prepares the foundation to excel in this test.
An accredited kindergarten homeschool will only help make the transition to a public or private school easier. It is an assurance that your child has taken the right course and learning material, followed by schools across the state. The best curriculum will prepare your child for the upcoming educational challenges.
