Homeschooling is becoming an increasingly popular choice for families across the U.S., including Arkansas. Whether you’re considering homeschooling for the first time or are already on the journey, knowing the specifics of your state’s laws, resources, and opportunities is essential. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about homeschooling in Arkansas—from legal requirements to creating a strategy that works for your unique family. Here at Dailies our goal is make sure your learning journey is everything you need it to be, even if your journey leads you in a different direction.
In Arkansas, homeschooling is a legal educational option that gives parents full control over their child’s learning. The state has clear guidelines to ensure families meet legal requirements while maintaining the flexibility homeschooling provides. The primary obligation for Arkansas homeschoolers is to file a Notice of Intent to Homeschool each school year.
The Notice of Intent is a document that informs the state of your decision to homeschool. Here’s how to complete the process:
Arkansas allows parents full control over their child’s curriculum, with no required subjects or state-mandated textbooks. This flexibility lets you choose materials that best suit your child’s needs. Standardized testing is not required for homeschoolers, but families may opt for it to track progress or meet specific goals. Not sure where to start, talk with one of Dailies Head Educators to see where to start and explore the possibility of a personalized learning plan.
Homeschooling Options in Arkansas
Traditional homeschooling is the most flexible option, where parents design and implement a curriculum tailored to their child’s interests and learning style. You can choose from a mix of resources such as textbooks, hands-on activities, online lessons, or field trips. This approach lets you adapt education to fit your family’s schedule and priorities.
Arkansas offers virtual schooling options through online public charter schools like Arkansas Connections Academy and Arkansas Virtual Academy. These schools provide free access to a structured curriculum and certified teachers while allowing students to study at home. This is an excellent choice for families seeking a mix of independence and guidance. Looking for something a little more personal check out Dailies School, a comprehensive online school with certified teachers, robust enrichment programs and many online tools to support your child.
Hybrid programs blend homeschooling with part-time enrollment in public or private schools. This allows students to participate in extracurricular activities, advanced classes, or specialized subjects like foreign languages or arts. Families can tailor the balance between home and school to meet their needs.
Homeschool co-ops are collaborative groups of homeschooling families who join together to teach specific subjects, plan field trips, or host social activities. Learning pods, smaller and more focused, involve families pooling resources to create a shared learning environment. Both options offer socialization opportunities and shared teaching responsibilities, making them appealing for families with multiple children.
Arkansas does not provide direct financial assistance for homeschool families. However, parents who enroll their children in online public charter schools often receive free access to technology and educational materials, which can reduce costs.
Arkansas does not currently offer tax credits or deductions specifically for homeschooling families. However, keeping records of educational expenses such as books, supplies, and online courses is a good practice in case of future policy changes.
Homeschooling doesn’t have to break the bank. Libraries, museums, and local organizations often offer free or low-cost educational materials. Many Arkansas communities have homeschooling networks where families can exchange curriculum or purchase used materials at a discount.
For families with children of different ages, scheduling is key. Consider starting the day with group lessons in subjects like history, science, or art, followed by individual time for age-specific work. This approach fosters family collaboration while ensuring each child’s educational needs are met.
Multi-age curriculum options are particularly useful for large families. Subjects such as science, social studies, and literature lend themselves well to group learning, where older children can dive deeper into topics while younger ones grasp the basics. Look for curriculum packages designed for family use, like My Father’s World or Sonlight.
Encourage older children to take charge of their education through self-guided online programs, independent research projects, or advanced courses. This not only fosters independence but also frees up your time to focus on younger learners.
Homeschooling allows you to transform everyday activities into educational moments. Cooking, gardening, budgeting, or even road trips can become rich learning experiences that involve the entire family. These hands-on activities also help children of all ages develop practical life skills.
Connecting with other homeschooling families is one of the best ways to enrich your experience. Arkansas has numerous support groups, co-ops, and online communities where families share advice, resources, and social opportunities. Groups like the Arkansas Homeschool Alliance offer guidance, advocacy, and networking opportunities.
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when juggling the roles of parent and teacher. Establishing clear boundaries between school and family time can help. Create a schedule that includes downtime for both you and your children. Sharing responsibilities with a co-parent or collaborating with other homeschooling families can also lighten the load.
Homeschooling allows you to customize education for children with unique learning needs. Arkansas families can access resources like specialized therapy services, adaptive tools, and enrichment programs. Look for organizations like Easterseals Arkansas or local learning centers that support families with special needs.
While Arkansas doesn’t mandate assessments for homeschoolers, keeping a record of your child’s progress can provide valuable insights. Consider maintaining a portfolio of completed work, setting weekly or monthly goals, or using an online tracker to document achievements. This practice helps ensure your child is on track and gives you a sense of accomplishment as an educator. Dailies offers highly detailed standard tracking to make sure your child is hitting every goal necessary to move on confident and prepared.
Homeschooling in Arkansas is a flexible and rewarding educational choice that allows families to take control of their children’s learning journey. With clear legal guidelines, a variety of resources, and strong community support, Arkansas provides an ideal environment for homeschooling.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your homeschooling approach, the key is to explore your options, connect with other families, and create a plan that suits your unique needs. Homeschooling is more than just academics—it’s about fostering a love for learning, strengthening family bonds, and preparing children for a bright future.
If you’re ready to begin or expand your homeschooling adventure, take the first step today. Need more assistance? Give a free class with Dailies a try or speak with a Head Educator today! Arkansas families have the freedom and support to make homeschooling an incredible experience. Happy homeschooling!
Written by
Jillian Burger Read all posts by this author