Many parents are turning to the option of homeschooling for their kids these days. And why not? Statistics show that children who are home-schooled often have higher grades and better chances at success than those attending public schools. Many parents wonder what the laws are regarding homeschooling in their state. As laws vary throughout the country, this is a valid question. After all, any parent wants their child to have the best education possible, and no parent wants to break laws in ensuring this. Homeschooling can be a satisfying option that resolves many issues once parents know the homeschooling laws involved.

Some states require no notification for homeschooling. No records are required to be kept and no home visits will be necessary. These states include Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Idaho, Alaska, Connecticut and New Jersey. Laws vary from state to state within this legislation, based upon the state's constitution as to what constitutes such things as attendance, curriculum and status.

States with low regulation usually require parental notification only. Certain steps must be taken within the states based on the state constitution. Usually a parent is required to notify the state school system by a certain date. States with this regulation include California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, Montana, Wyoming, Nebraska, Kansas, Wisconsin, Kentucky, Missouri and Alabama.

Moderate homeschooling laws require much more than low or no regulation. Parents are required to send notification as well as test scores or professional evaluation of the child's progress. Depending on individual state laws, parents must notify the schools by a certain date. States with these laws are Washington, Oregon, Colorado, South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Arkansas, Louisiana, Tennessee, Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, D.C., North and South Carolina, Georgia and Florida.

The highest homeschooling laws are quite strict for parents, who must send notification as well as achievement test scores, evaluations and other requirements such as state approved curriculum, parental qualifications to be teachers and home visits by state officials. States with these regulations are North Dakota, Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Massachusetts.

Homeschooling is an enjoyable and rewarding means of education. Be sure to know your state's homeschooling laws before embarking on this experience so that there are no surprises awaiting you and your child.