How many hours a day is required for homeschooling in Missouri?

Answered by Tom Adger

In Missouri, parents who homeschool their children are required to provide a total of 1,000 hours of instruction each year. This means that over the course of the year, parents need to ensure that their children receive a minimum of 1,000 hours of educational instruction.

Out of these 1,000 hours, at least 600 hours must be dedicated to the five core subjects, which include reading, math, social studies, language arts, and science. These core subjects are considered essential for a well-rounded education and are therefore given priority in the homeschooling curriculum.

Additionally, out of the 600 hours dedicated to the core subjects, at least 400 hours must take place at the regular home school location. This requirement emphasizes the importance of having a designated space for homeschooling and ensuring that a substantial amount of instructional time is spent in that specific setting.

It is important for parents to keep track of the hours spent on instruction and maintain records to demonstrate compliance with the homeschooling regulations. This can be done through various methods, including daily or weekly logs, portfolios of completed work, or attendance records.

The specific breakdown of the required hours can vary depending on individual circumstances and learning styles. Some families may choose to spread out the instructional hours evenly throughout the year, while others may prefer to have more intensive periods of instruction followed by breaks.

In my personal experience with homeschooling, I found that establishing a consistent routine and schedule helped to ensure that the required hours were met. By setting aside dedicated time each day for instruction and incorporating a variety of engaging activities and resources, I was able to provide a well-rounded education for my children.

It is worth noting that while the state of Missouri sets a minimum requirement of 1,000 hours for homeschooling, families are free to exceed this requirement and tailor their educational approach to the specific needs and interests of their children. Homeschooling allows for flexibility and personalized learning experiences, which can be a major advantage for many families.

Homeschooling in Missouri requires parents to provide a total of 1,000 hours of instruction each year, with a minimum of 600 hours dedicated to the core subjects. Out of these 600 hours, at least 400 hours must take place at the regular home school location. It is important for parents to keep track of the hours and maintain records to demonstrate compliance with the homeschooling regulations. The specific breakdown of the hours can vary depending on individual circumstances and learning styles. Homeschooling provides flexibility and the opportunity for personalized education.