Description of the Average Survey-Responding Family:
Two parents with 2.1 children. Children range in age from infancy to 15 years old, the average age being 8.7 years. (The majority of the responding readers did not indicate the "grade level" of their children. Most said they just didn't feel it mattered.) This "average" family has a single annual income ranging from $35,000-$100,000+, the average being $55,770.
Estimated Costs to Establish A Homeschool:
Research books to start homeschooling: Ranged from $10.- $300. Average: $101.
A few readers took the plunge without investing one nickel. Most, however, did buy books to get started.
Membership Dues: Range: $7.- $200. Average: $72.
This included memberships to local support groups, state & national groups, and ISPs/Administrative Units. Very few respondents paid membership dues to any homeschool organization or support group at all.
Home School Legal Defense Association: One half of our respondents are members of HSLDA. Cost: $100./year.
R-4 Affidavit: While no one was charged a filing fee, most people mailed it ($.32) and a number of people filed it "certified, return receipt requested" with the Post Office. ($2.90) Range: $.32 - $2.90
Newsletters: 99% of our respondents subscribe to newsletters spending from $10. to $100. annually. Average Annual Expense: $52.
Teacher's Record Book: About 40% of respondents use these, average cost of $5.00
Home Education Conferences: About 65% of respondents attend Conferences on Homeschool. Costs vary from $15.-$200. Average cost: $101.
Costs for Educational Products/Curricula:
Curriculum Package: Only 25% of respondents bought a complete packaged curriculum. Costs vary from $60. - $460. Average: $200.
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