Dubai and Northern Emirates Homeschool Association
Our Mission
We homeschool for many different reasons, but our shared goal is to fan the spark, the desire to learn, that all children are born with, and to provide a nurturing and loving environment to facilitate that learning. Toward this end we strive to be open-minded, tolerant, and tactful.
We also aim to be aware of and responsive to the needs of others in our group. Our desire is to provide a source of support, inspiration, and friendships for members of all homeschooling families in the area.
We are not a school and we do not provide tutoring services or teach children other than our own (on a regular basis). Our association does not condone nor encourage the violation of local laws in the pursuit of homeschooling.
Which are the Northern Emirates?
All emirates in the United Arab Emirates, north of Abu Dhabi. That includes Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Quwain, Ras al-Khaimah and Fujairah.
Why join?
This homeschooling group is a place where we can share issues, ideas and encouragement in regards to homeschooling. It also provides a forum to communicate about upcoming field trips, special events, meetings, and enrichment classes in a safe and secure environment. When asked what concerns homeschooling parents had, the above items were on almost everyone’s list. Therefore, the group seeks to provide an outlet wherein we can accomplish these goals and many others that may arise as we journey down the homeschooling path. Since the Emirates has a high turnover of population, it is the aim of the group to establish this constant venue so that any homeschooling family in the Emirates can receive support and maintain communication with others.
Membership requirements
Any homeschooling family in the region can become a member. You are welcome to meet, play, and learn with some of our member families. If you would like to attend one of our weekly activities please email us at nehomeschoolassociation@gmail.com and we’ll inform you of the next gathering.
If you then decide you would like to join our group, we can then email a membership form to you and add you to our discussion group.
2.We are an inclusive group and there is no charge for joining. The only requisite is committment to DUNEHA in an active form. If you have any special skills, expertise or ideas for the group, let us know. We also need people to take on jobs, so please inform us of your willingness to do this.
That’s it! I’m sure it will be great getting to know you and your family.
Unfortunately, if you are only cosidering homeschooling, we cannot grant you membership. Please take the time to read through this website as it has some useful ideas and tips, and if you still have questions feel free to post your questions below or email us, and we might be able to help. You may, however, join our facebook group: Search “Dubai and Northern Emirates Homeschool Association” and ask to join the group.
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Oct 07, 2009 @ 09:12:53
Hello. I have recently moved to Al Ain from the UK. My son should currently be in year 11 but has not started school. I am interested in him being homeschooled.Please forward any information on how I could get this started here.Many thanks
Oct 09, 2009 @ 10:50:25
Sunitha, please consider joining the nehomeschooling association. Although you are in Al Ain, you will very much enjoy the people and activities this year in the Northern Emirates. I have 2 teens homeschooling, so please feel free to contact me @ nehomeschoolassociation@gmail.com….I am using a distance course, but will share more with you via email.
Aminah
Oct 09, 2009 @ 17:49:55
Hi Sunitha Issari,
I’d recommend that you do a google search for home ed support groups out of the UK. The majority of homeschooling options for High School are US based. If that is ok for you then k12 would be the easiest thing to get into because they have a local office in Dubai. If you are not trying to change systems this late into your son’s education (perfectly understandable) being plugged into the UK home educating scene would be a tremendous source of information. From speaking to other home educators in the UK, I understand that it is very possible to take many of the exams and courses that other children who are enrolled in school sit for. You may be able to do certain programs through distance education programs and then sit for the exams at the British Council here in the Emirates. Please write back so that others may benefit from whatever you learn. I wish you well.
Oct 23, 2009 @ 21:29:13
Hi, I have been in email contact with Sunitha and would like to add some info here in case it is helpful to anyone home-educating from a UK perspective.
For distance learning options one of the choices is Oxford Home Learning.They offer iGCSE’s for Homeschooled children, which are international GCSE’s. GCSE’s are offered through Edexcel and Cambridge.
cathkins
Nov 02, 2010 @ 13:24:28
Hi there. I would like to know if this Oxford homeschooling is accredited by the KHDA in Dubai. Would love to know pls. Cause I need my daughter to finish her homeschooling so I can send her back to a normal school when she is done with Gr. 8 & 9. Would appreciate ur feedback.
Dec 14, 2010 @ 15:41:02
Hi, the only accredited homeschooling curriculum is K12 in Dubai. That doesn’t mean that other systems won’t be accepted, just that acceptance is not guaranteed.
May 12, 2010 @ 17:02:20
My daughter is in Grade 5, and still in my home country.
She will not pass any assesment in any school here in Dubai.
I am considering homeschooling. Had a look at K12. Is there anybody who has children signed up with them? Just need more info to put my mind at ease that this is the right thing to do…
Thank you.
May 15, 2010 @ 16:11:47
Hi Monica,
My eldest did grade 7 with k12 last year. They enjoyed the subjects they took and the information was delivered in an engaging way (not just sitting and reading a text book). The math delivery was not stimulating at all but I understand k12 has re-done the math program for next year. I don’t know if that is for all grade levels but am looking forward to it for my kids. What questions did you have in particular. Perhaps I can help. Are you concerned about being able to homeschool in general or just about the k12 program itself?
Sep 07, 2011 @ 12:06:28
Assalamualaikum!
I am thinking of homeschooling my 4 year old (due to start KG1 soon) and 2.5 year old (due to start nursery soon). However, in my mind homeschooling is a huge huge commitment in terms of my time and responsibility and I end up feeling overwhelmed. I would love to get in touch with some parents here with children as young as mine to know how they manage their time and chores etc. What systems are people using to homeschool and is K12 any good?
Thanks
Shumaila
Aug 05, 2010 @ 21:53:56
Hi, I hope someone can help. My query is a little unusual. I am seriously considering homeschooling my 6 year old daughter here in the UAE. However, I work full time now – can I still have her homeschooled, but by someone else?
Aug 11, 2010 @ 16:08:50
Greetings Ira,
Yes you could have your daughter homeschooled by someone else. You may consider putting an ad in the paper for a teacher/tutor. Living in this region you may be able to find a housemaid who also has a background in education. I would be very diligent about screening the person you ultimately want to hire. It goes without saying that your child being 6 is very impressionable and whomever you hire you’d want them to reflect your values and parenting styles. I’ve heard stories of teachers (hired in-home) tell the students that homeschooling is for retards and otherwise undermine the family’s decision to school at home. Alternatively there are many families who homeschool and the parent(s) must work, it can be done! To find out how others are doing it you can join this group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WORKandHOMESCHOOL/ or get started by reading this article: http://homeschooling.gomilpitas.com/articles/112101.htm
Aug 13, 2010 @ 07:23:53
hi, i wanted information about the syllabus to be followed as my home country is india and within two years i can shift there, so could you pls advise me for it.
i stay in Ajman and my son is 3 years and three months.
Aug 23, 2010 @ 14:04:51
Hello Pratima,
This Yahoo group is for homeschoolers in India. Hopefully someone there can guide you in the right direction regarding your situation:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/alt-ed-india/?yguid=81356811
Aug 16, 2010 @ 12:36:27
I am interested in exploring home schooling for my kids however I wanted to know if there was anyone in dubai or sharjah that home schools several kids. I can not do it myself and am worried about the social aspect. In the US there were several people who home-schooled their own kids as well as allowed enrolment for several other kids in order to create a better environment. Thanks.
Oct 11, 2010 @ 14:44:36
Hi, I’m a homeschooling mom of 12 year old twin girls. We’ve been homeschooling for about 9 months now and have recently moved here from Abu Dhabi. We were active in the homeschool group out there and are looking forward to joining NEHA so that we can particpate in the field trips, meetings, and activities out here. Please let me know where the weekly meetings are held in Burj Dubai. Thanks!
Oct 28, 2010 @ 09:37:57
Hi Gina,
We are all looking forward to meeting you at one of our weekly meets. Glad you have found us!
Sep 18, 2011 @ 09:13:46
Hi Gina, are you still in the UAE?
Did you have any luck with arranging teenage activities?
We have a teenage daughter, 13, who is doing UK homeschooling here in Dubai and if you are here maybe we could get them together.
She has one other friend doing the same homeschool as her and a new friend who has just arrived so it would be good to get them all together.
All the best
Tavis Stewart
The Greens
0508755264
Oct 20, 2010 @ 17:19:50
Dear Sir / Madam,
I have a daughter, who is professional sport player. She is 11 years old and she is doing grade 6. She would like to join your school. She is Russian.
Oct 22, 2010 @ 08:50:50
Hi there, We are not a school. We are a group of families in Dubai who home-educate our own children and come together for activities. Hope you find what you need for your daughter.
Oct 25, 2010 @ 03:45:23
Hello! I am a longtime homeschooling mother of seven. We will be coming to UAE this school year with our three youngest ages 14 and 11 (twin boys) .My husband will be working for Emirates Airlines as an instructor. We are from the US and we use the Calvert curriculum. How can I join your group so we can “plug in” and make some friends fast?! Thanks for your help, Gretchen
Oct 27, 2010 @ 09:06:51
Hi Gretchen, please email our membership co-ordinator (see “how to join” section) and she will be able to supply more info.
Nov 19, 2010 @ 21:02:46
Gretchen ~
Just wondering if you have made it to the UAE yet? I just read your post on the homeschooling web site here. We are a longtime hs family of 6 children – quite and oddity around here! Our youngest is a newborn and the oldest 12. I would love to meet you. Please let me know if you have any questions. We just moved to Dubai in July, and I know I had a lot of questions before we came.
Oct 31, 2010 @ 05:42:15
Assalaamu alaykum.
This is Maryam and I personally would like to thank the people responsible in creating this site. I feel so relieved as I have been thinking of home schooling my 9 year old son (as soon as we move back to Dubai by Jan 2011, insha-Allah), but my husband and I could not avoid getting worried if home schooling is legal and accepted in Dubai or if there would be other families doing it. So we recently searched on line and at last, Alhamdulillah, we found your site, after checking that one from Abu Dhabi. I will read further about your association as well as home schooling in the UAE and we hope to stay in touch.
Oct 31, 2010 @ 12:05:50
Hi Maryam, pleased that you are benefiting from the site.
Nov 04, 2010 @ 16:58:16
Hi,
I have two boys both attending school in Dubai. My eldest one who is 7 yrs old and in Gr. 1 is having behavioral problems at school and we are considering home schooling for him. Where I can I find some guidance on homeschooling using an Indian Syllabus. Thanks
Nov 11, 2010 @ 14:45:54
Dear Home Schoolers of Al Ain
My husband is a native speaker with an electrical engineering degree and over ten years experience teaching maths and physics from UK, Australian and UK curriculum. He is interested in working with families who are keen to maintain the standards set from their home countries or exam preparation for external and international exam boards .
Please contact me on 0503272529
Thanks
Nov 21, 2010 @ 17:26:59
I have textbooks for all subjects ranging from grades 2 all the way upto grade 10 that are available for the British curriculum. Many reputed publishers such as Oxford, Ginn, Collins, Longman and Heinemann are on my list. Extremely helpful and supplementing workbooks with easy to follow instructions are guaranteed. Please feel free to call me on 0504589274 for more details.
Nov 22, 2010 @ 21:33:16
Hi, I am Sameena & we are moving to Dubai in August 2011. I am considering venturing into the possibility of home-schooling my 9 year old son ( who has Down Syndrome) along with my 3 year old. I have noticed somewhat in the Emirates ( along with other countries) that the word “retard” is often used , which in the UK (& many other countries ) is perceived as a negative and politically incorrect way of defining anyone with additional needs. I personally wouldn’t want my son to be described as that, but for the person he is first. This would be one of the reasons for me to home-school, but I would also like him to be able to socialise with his peer group, to help him build on his skills. Does anyone here have any experience, or know of anyone in a similar situation as me? Would there be groups in Dubai offering support in Special Educational Needs etc etc.
I would appreciate and welcome any information or advice anyone has to offer.
Thank You
Nov 27, 2010 @ 20:54:04
Hi Sameena,
After speaking to some of the members in our group, someone suggested getting in touch with Al Noor in Al Barsha. http://www.alnoorspneeds.ae/page.php?pid=95
Also, there are (apparently) a couple of homeschoolers in Abu Dhabi with children with Down Syndrome, so it may be worth getting in contact with them: International_Students_Homeschooling_in_AbuDhabi_Emirate@yahoogroups.ca
Hope this helps.
Jan 09, 2011 @ 23:41:27
I am one of the families from Abu Dhabi whose 14 year old daughter happens to have DS. The education opportunities for children with disabilities is very different in the UAE than in the UK and USA. I would love to dialogue with you some more as you prepare to move to the UAE. mary marylanser@gmail.com
Jan 10, 2011 @ 07:29:17
Hi Mary,
We have had a deluge of requests submitted re ds and home ed. Let me know if you’d like to write an article on this for us. It would be most appreciated!
Jan 11, 2011 @ 16:25:39
Thank you Mary I will most definitely email you….at present we are looking into the mainstream school where my eldest son is going to go, as there are already several children attending there with DS. However, it is a decision I prob won’t make until I am there as I am still in the process of exploring my options.
Jul 04, 2011 @ 01:10:20
Hi There, Sameena
Please find the e:mail id below. I suggest you get in touch with them. They should certainly be in a position to help you out. Goodluck. or please visit http://www.all4downsyndrome.com.
info@all4downsyndrome.com
Nov 23, 2010 @ 10:47:05
Hi,
Can you please guide me how to start home schooling in Sharjah / Dubai, for my 4 children. They were attending a British Curriculum School , for some reasons I want them to start home schooling. How do I do that? Any links or contact you can provide .
Thank You
Jun 10, 2011 @ 14:34:03
Hello Afsheen,
Please forgive the delay in responding and feel free to contact us at nehomeschoolassociation@gmail.com
We are a very diverse group of homeschoolers, residing in the Northern Emirates (Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm ul Quwain, Fujeirah and Ras al Khaimah) and we can inform you of upcoming events and provide additional information on registering with our organisation. Looking forward to hearing from you!
Aminah
Dec 06, 2010 @ 22:51:26
please tell me if there is homeschooling in arabic language for my kids
thanks
Dec 08, 2010 @ 06:59:11
Hi Ibrahim,
We have quite a few members who use Arabic in their teaching. I will pass on your question and see what answers I receive. Since my previous response, we have an article on Arabic that is well worth reading to find out more about the teaching of Arabic.
Dec 09, 2010 @ 13:03:58
HI,
I would love to meet up with your group. Our family moved here in October from th U.S and we have been looking for a group to join I am new to the home schooling scene and would love some help.I have three children 10,7,4 and we hadnt any luck in finding a right school for them. so you can imagine I have three kids who love being around other children their ages and we just need to find the right group who could help us! We live in Al Barsha so hopefully we can get together with you soon.
Dec 14, 2010 @ 14:14:54
Hi Nadyah,
It would be wonderful if you could join us for an outing/trip. There are many experienced homeschoolers amongst us who would be eager to help. Email us and we’ll send you the details.
Dec 14, 2010 @ 14:31:10
Hello! We live in Al Barsha 3 and just moved here in July from the US. Our children are 12, 10, 7, 5, 3, and a newborn. We have always homeschooled and love it! We’d like to meet you.
Jennifer
Dec 13, 2010 @ 16:15:42
Hi everyone, if anyone is interested in the UK system you can try a school based in Wales, UK called Interhigh on http://www.interhigh.co.uk.
My 13 year old step daughter has been there for just over one year now and finds it a very good way to study combined with lessons on Maths, Science and English at Power Tutoring in Knowledge Village.
Please feel free to contact me for details.
Tavis Stewart
Mar 28, 2011 @ 08:41:03
Hi Tavis,
I want to find out more about Interhigh, as we are considering using them to homeschool our son, who will be in year 9 in September. I’d also like to use tutors for some subjects, how did you fit everything in?
Although he has a good group of friends I am worried about how he will adjust to being homeschooled. I’d be grateful for any advice you may have.
Thanks
Samina
Dec 14, 2010 @ 15:57:36
In Response to Ant, the homeschool we use is http://www.interhigh.co.uk and we recently moved our daughter from there to Gems Wellington because we received the transfer certificate from the school as it is an accredited school in the UK. So its like you have just moved to Dubai as far as the school is concerned.
Tavis
050 875 5264
Dec 15, 2010 @ 21:28:43
To Jennifer Uzzell,
We have a 13 year old (just turned) home schooling and we live in the Greens so quite close to you if you would like to meet. Is your 12 year old a boy or a girl?
Tavis
tavisstewart@hotmail.co.uk
Dec 16, 2010 @ 05:07:28
To jennifer Uzzell, I am trying to contact you. We just arrived in Dubai and my kids are ready to meet some friends
(girl 14 and twin boys 11) my email is gretchenvoll@yahoo.com
Dec 22, 2010 @ 22:19:06
Hi Jennifer,
We too live in Al Barsha #1 and we are from the U.S and I have two boys who are 10 and 7 and a girl who is 4 and a half. we would love to meet up with your family one day! My e mail is Nadyahtayeh@yahoo.com Hope to hear from you soon!
Nadyah
Dec 27, 2010 @ 04:05:13
assalam iwould like 2 know homeschooling 4 downsyndrom
Jan 09, 2011 @ 02:36:48
dear
i am locking for a home school for my downsyndrome doughter 8 years old and i prefer it in arabic , pls help
regards
ayman
Jun 10, 2011 @ 14:37:10
as salaamu alaikum Ayman,
I hope this information will be of help to you:
I am one of the families from Abu Dhabi whose 14 year old daughter happens to have Down”s Syndrome. The education opportunities for children with disabilities is very different in the UAE than in the UK and USA. I would love to dialogue with you some more as you prepare to move to the UAE. mary marylanser@gmail.com
Jan 25, 2011 @ 14:00:11
Hi,
Just want to know if home-schooling is expensive compared to regular schooling in the UAE.
Jun 10, 2011 @ 14:40:06
Hello,
Please forgive the delay in responding to your inquiry. Private school costs vary here in the UAE, as do the costs of different homeschooling curriculums. If you are interested in researching some curriculums and costs, I would be happy to share some site links with you. Please feel free to email me at:
nehomeschoolassociation@gmail.com
Aminah
Feb 05, 2011 @ 22:37:26
Hi,
My kids are 8 and 11, son and daughter. I would like to get more info on homeschooling……US curriculmn. I am not completely happy with schools here and would like to use homeschooling as a supplement to their education. Please comment…thanks
Feb 12, 2011 @ 20:20:38
I am considering the option of home schooling our two daughters who will be 4 and 7 in June this year. My youngest has never attened a primary school as she is still in nursery and my eldest will be going into grade 2 in September. At the moment I am going through all the emotions as today it seems like it could be a great oppourtunity for them and me, and then tomorrow all the doubt and fear take over. We are originally from Africa and so our children would normally only go to school at the age of 6/7. I would love to hear from anyone who has done this with such young children. Does it make sense to move them out mainstream schooling or am I just looking for trouble.
Jun 12, 2011 @ 21:38:42
Hi there,
We are about to start the homeschool journey with my daughter who turns 4 in July and son who is not 2 until next January. I’m not sure what decision you made but if you are still interested in talking to someone with children as young as yours then my email is TracyDay2010@gmail.com
Warm regards,
Tracy
Feb 25, 2011 @ 20:03:38
Hi,
I hope someone can help.
I am so unhappy with the schools in Dubai and have been considering home schooling for a while now. However, I have a couple of issues:
First I can not do it myself – i want to ensure that i have experienced tutors handling the teaching.
Second, I have concern with the social aspect and the environment really of being at home all day – going to school and changing scenery definately is a plus to any child and mixing with kids also exposes a child to good and bad that build character and strength. I am worried about the sheltered environment on my kids.
Therefore ideally I am looking for a home schooling expert that tutors other kids as well which somewhat creates a better social environment. Do you know of anyone/anywhere like that here in Dubai?
I have heard of the k12 but again the social aspect is an issue in addition i have heard the academic level is questionable. I don’t know…
My kids are 5,7 and 9.
Thanks.
Feb 26, 2011 @ 12:21:24
Hi,
I keep hearing about the K12 program in Knowledge village but can’t find any ratings or personal experiences from parents who have enrolled their kids there.
Please if anyone has enrolled their kids in K12 i’d like to know what the feedback is. Thanks.
Mar 22, 2011 @ 18:53:00
HI Sam,
I am doing the K12 program with my children ages 7 & 9. The 5 y.o. does Starfall Kindergarten. We have home-schooled since we have been in Dubai but the boys did go to B&M (brick & mortar) School in the US.
My experience with K12 has been a mixed one. The positives are that the kids can work to their own level rather than be subjected to the sort of leveling by age that so many schools try to do here. The teachers are generally available to you to help you if you have any problems with your work. The curriculum gives you so many resources and lesson options that if your child is struggling with a concept, all the information you could ever need is available to you. There are weekly social meets, as well as online virtual field trips, and monthly field trips (although these were mostly eliminated the first semester of this year, they have re-started). K12 does offer full time tutoring assistance if parents cannot teach.
The drawbacks are that K12 can be completely overwhelming. My boys are doing Math, Language Arts (grammar, vocabulary, composition, test readiness and analogies), Literature, Spelling, History, Science, Art, Latin and Arabic. Unless you are very organized, and learn how to do this very efficiently, it is too much for most kids. K12 administration is mixed, administrative problems are usually acknowledged, but I’ve found things rarely go much beyond acknowledgment into the realm of problem solving.
If you are interested in your children eventually going to a British school, you may have a hard time coming out of K12. The American system just does not emphasize certain things (like everyone having the same penmanship, sitting a certain way, doing math problems a certain way etc. etc.) that seem quite important to the British system (but perhaps this is just my experience).
The Northern Emirates Homeschool group has really spared me and the kids from any loneliness sometimes associated with homeschooling. We meet with the group each Thursday afternoon, do a monthly chess club, go on monthly field trips and do swimming lessons with the group twice a week. The group of 6 – 11 year olds is very much starting to come together and act like classmates.
In general, I personally reject the notion that the negatives of school, bullying and learning inappropriate language and ideas come to mind, are in any way critical to children’s social development. My kids have done just fine without these aspects of school and frankly, I have a lot less to worry about.
I’d be happy to meet you for coffee if you’d like to talk more about homeschooling in general or K12 in particular. I’d also strongly urge you to talk to an enrollment person there, as they can give you lots of detail.
Here is a link to their contact info.
http://www.k12.com/int/contact_us/
Best of Luck!
Silvia
Mar 05, 2011 @ 18:43:52
Hi all,
I am a Filipino and I am considering to homeschool my son who is turning 5 this Sept. I want to ask if there are also other filipinos in your group. Thank you very much for opening this site!
Virginia
Jun 08, 2011 @ 12:47:03
Hi Virginia,
This is Maryam and I’m Filipino too. I have been in contact with this organization since last year but it is only last month that I came back in Dubai. I have opted Home schooling for my son who is 10y/o. Can we keep in touch for our further communication? If you can mailto: hey_daddaa@yahoo.com or contact me thru my mobile 050-7190032, I’d be more happy to hear from you. Thank you in advance.
Oct 08, 2011 @ 14:00:32
Hi Virginia,
I am also Filipino and I just found this site. Glad that there is an association for homeschoolers here. Did you join this group already? Thanks.
TMA
Mar 06, 2011 @ 16:25:25
Hi there,
I am a mother of two boys, five and three years. My five year old is currently attending school but we are unable to afford to send my younger son (when he turns four) for KG 1 or preschool. And I don’t feel he should go to school five days a week at such a young age. I don’t know if this organisation would be suited to someone so young? Would there be a place for us or not? My main concern is that there is so little else to do to stimulate young children here other than sending them to school. It seems like an all or nothing situation. Back in my home country, there would be numerous activities and classes to take my son to…
Thanks for you help in advance.
Kelly
May 22, 2011 @ 21:59:02
Hi Kelly,
I have two children 4 and 2 years and am interested in homeschooling my daughter, Mily (the eldest). She is enrolled to go to school in Sept 2011 but I’m not comfortable with the decision. Unfortunately I don’t know any mums that are homeschooling (Mily is very social) and feel quite isolated in my decision making process. Fortunately I have a very supportive husband. I would love to talk to you about the decision that you made. If you are interested in chatting then perhaps you can send me your details and I will contact you.
Look forward to your response, Tracy
Mar 19, 2011 @ 22:03:31
Hi,
Im trying to reach out to the homeschool support group. We are homeschooling (16, 7 and 5 – all girls) and would love to join the group ASAP. Looking forward to hearing from you! Thanks!
May 22, 2011 @ 22:27:23
Hi Mavzuna, very pleased that we’ve all met you now.
Mar 22, 2011 @ 21:54:14
Hello,
I am a mother of four homeschooling kids from Abu Dhabi.The older two girls are in keystone high school and my son and youngest daughter is with Calvert.
A leading newspaper in the UAE is going to do a report on homeschooling (not unschooling) soon. If any sisters would like to volunteer to give interview kindly reply with your contact details by tomorrow (23rd) afternoon.
Umm Aaishah
Nabilah
Mar 29, 2011 @ 12:41:40
Hi,
I have 4 kids currently studying the regular UAE curriculum in Arabic and would like to homeschool them particularly in the English language.
Is there a suggestion for a curriculum that I can follow and how to access it?
The kids are in the 8th, 6th & 3rd grades and kg2.
Thanks in advance,
Ibrahim
Jun 10, 2011 @ 14:20:43
As salaamu alaikum Ibrahim,
My name is Aminah and we at NEHA would like to help you in your quest to homeschool your children. Please email us at: nehomeschoolassociation@gmail.com
and we will be able to give you advice on curriculums and get you started on your way. NEHA is a homeschool support group, and we have a very diverse group of homeschooling families that your children will be able to interact with. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Aminah
Mar 31, 2011 @ 14:37:52
my son haareb sharafuddeen is doing home schooling now.
we need to know the proceedure for exam and other details.
how to contact the group in sharajah.
pls provide maximum info pls.
naseema sharafudeen
Jun 01, 2011 @ 16:42:41
as salaamu alaikum Naseema,
You can send an email to us at: nehomeschoolassociation@gmail.com
As far as exams go, you must check with the curriculum you have chosen for your son Haareb. Testing is an individual decision based upon the curriculum you are using. Our group is a support group that brings together homeschooling families in the Northern Emirates. Please feel free to email me at the above address with an specific questions you may have. Looking forward to hearing from you….
Aminah
Apr 11, 2011 @ 19:52:36
Hello,
We are planning to move to Dubai end of this year and interested in looking into Homeschool for our 10 yr old daughter. She will be in the 5th grade at the time of our move. Can anyone please provide us with all the information. We currently reside us in the US.
Thanks in advance,
Arif
Jun 01, 2011 @ 14:32:03
as salaamu alaikum brother Arif,
My name is Aminah and I am a member of NEHA. We would be happy to welcome your family upon your arrival to the UAE. Please contact us at:
nehomeschoolassociation@gmail.com
We can provide you with additional information when we receive your email, and inform you of upcoming events once you are in the emirates inshaAllah.
Safe travels!
Aminah
May 02, 2011 @ 23:29:37
Assalamu alaikum.I live in Sharjah and intend to give education to my son aged 10 years through home schooling.Presently he is in grade 6. I am looking out for a good source of home schooling. Insha Allah I hope that your program will be of some good help to me.Awaiting eagerly for your info and feedback.
Jun 01, 2011 @ 14:29:39
wa alaikum salaam brother Nazir,
My name is Aminah and I am a member of NEHA. We would be happy to be of assistance. Please contact us at: nehomeschoolassociation@gmail.com
I can provide you with additional information on homeschooling in the emirates, and our organisation inshaAllah.
Aminah
May 04, 2011 @ 11:32:28
Hi Samina
If you would like to meet and talk about interhigh do let me know, my number is 050 875 5264.
We are very happy with their service and also with Power Tutoring in KV who do the evening face to face sessions.
Regards
Tavis
May 10, 2011 @ 06:22:45
I would LOVE more information on your group! I am currently homeschooling my 2 children ages 5 & 8 here in the states. However, it is looking that likely that we will be moving to Dubai before the year ends. I was reading up schools in Dubai and am not sure I’m ready to give up homeschooling for the private school system. However, I also can’t imagine making such a big change without some sort of support system in place. Any information would be greatly appreciated!
Jun 01, 2011 @ 14:24:31
Hi Tami,
Please feel free to contact us at nehomeschoolassociation@gmail.com
We are a very diverse group of homeschoolers, residing in the Northern Emirates (Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm ul Quwain, Fujeirah and Ras al Khaimah). Please let us know when you arrive in Dubai, and we can inform you of upcoming events and provide additional information on registering with our organisation. Looking forward to hearing from you…safe travels!
Aminah
May 22, 2011 @ 21:53:46
Hi,
We moved to Dubai in November 2010. My daughter is currently attending a nursery here in the Dubai Marina and is registered to start school September 2011. I’m not convinced that this is our best option and would really like to homeschool her and eventually her younger brother. I feel quite isolated here in Dubai on this homeschooling journey as most of the mothers I’ve met here would not do this! I would appreciate hearing from any other mothers with children this young age (ie just starting out with educating at home) in the Dubai Marina area. I have been directed to the Sonlight curriculum as I understand it is more about creative play and learning through reading.
I look forward to some feedback.
Warm regards, Tracy
May 23, 2011 @ 12:39:45
Hello Tracy!
Welcome to our community! I joint this group recently and really happy I did. I would recommend you to become a member and you will not feel isolated anymore. There are families with young children and lots of organized activities, even throughout summer.
Hope to meet you one day!
Mavzuna
Jun 01, 2011 @ 14:15:00
HI TRACY!
I hope you receive this in a timely manner…….don’t have your email address, and need to confirm with you that the trip will be on the 9th of June……not tomorrow (2nd). Please contact me ASAP….
Aminah
Sep 20, 2011 @ 01:13:30
Tracy,
I would love to get in contact with you! We will be moving to Dubai in Jan and I currently have homeschooled my children for 3 years here in the states. I have yet to decide what I will be doing school wise with my children once we move. We were planning on looking at housing in the Dubai Marina area. I would love to hear your thoughts on living there with young children. From what I have read there is not an abundance of families in that specific area. If you have a free moment, I would like to hear your opinion. My husband I will be making a trip out to Dubai in Oct.
Thank you!
Tami
May 23, 2011 @ 01:46:02
Assalamualaikum,
My son has not been abel to go to school because of behaviour problems . So i am considering homeschooling him. I would like to know whether there are any families with PreK / KG kids who are interested in meeting up? Also , since he is 4 years and has a speech delay , can anyone give me detials for swimming classes with a teacher who is experienced to help young kids learn swimming? Btw , we live in sharjah.
thanks
fouzia
Jun 01, 2011 @ 14:16:28
Fouzia? As salaamu alaikum,
It’s ME Aminah! I am a member of NEHA and can give you details……give me a call! hehe
May 23, 2011 @ 06:16:36
Hi,
I’ve been homeschooling my 4 year old DD since she was 3 and will certainly do so for as long as I can. If anyone has a preschooler around that age please feel free to drop me a convo at naznin-riaz@live.com. Also, does anyone know about the homeschool curriculum by K-12 Academy? I was wondering if the ministry of education here in the UAE acknowledges it.
I would much appreciate any kind of feedback or information
Regards
Naznin
May 28, 2011 @ 19:29:24
My granddaughter will be here to stay with me for a year. She is an upcoming 7th grader. Her mom will homeschool her for that year. I would like to have information in regards to homeschooling, how can we join your organization, what do we need to know about homeschooling-websites, etc.
Jun 10, 2011 @ 14:25:38
As salaamu alaikum Ibrahim,
My name is Aminah and we at NEHA would like to help you in your quest to homeschool your grandaughter. Please email us at: nehomeschoolassociation@gmail.com
and we will be able to give you advice on curriculums and get you started on your way. NEHA is a homeschooling support group, and we have a very diverse group of homeschooling families that your grandaughter will be able to interact with. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Aminah
Jun 10, 2011 @ 14:27:04
Hello Sarah, (sorry abt the previous ‘send’)
My name is Aminah and we at NEHA would like to help you in your quest to homeschool your grandaughter. Please email us at: nehomeschoolassociation@gmail.com
and we will be able to give you advice on curriculums and get you started on your way. NEHA is a homeschooling support group, and we have a very diverse group of homeschooling families that your grandaughter will be able to interact with. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Aminah
Jun 01, 2011 @ 14:20:49
Hi Naznin,
If you read the comments above your own, you will see similar questions regarding the k12 curriculum. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me thru NEHA at nehomeschoolassociation@gmail.com
Aminah
Jun 06, 2011 @ 22:58:41
Hello all. I am homeschooling my 14 year old daughter who will be starting igcses in September. We are Brits moving to mirdif area in Dubai. Any other teen homeschoolers out there? We also have a seven year old girl but she will be going to dso school in September if anyone wants to post back I will happily email
Louisa
Jun 07, 2011 @ 12:02:17
Hi Louisa,
We also have a daughter home schooling who is starting igcse’s in Sept.
Would love to get them together an meet you as well.
We live in the Greens but Mirdif is easy to get to.
Regards
Tavis Stewart
050 875 5264
Jun 08, 2011 @ 18:54:00
Hi Louisa,
Sorry I didnt put my email, its tavisstewart@hotmail.co.uk
Best regards
Tavis
Jun 16, 2011 @ 18:54:37
Hello Ms. Louisa,
This year I began to home educate my 14 years old boy.
After learning a lot of facts regarding University Addmission Requirements in U.S.A., England and Germany, I decided that the IGCSE is the most suitable system for him. We are living in Sharjah just beside the British Council.
If you need any information, you can contact me through: samitaha@hotmail.com
Regards,
Eng. Sami Taha
Jun 22, 2011 @ 19:43:56
Hi Louisa,
Not sure if you got my last reply to get our daughters to meet so they can help each other with the iGCSE’s from Sept.
Best regards
Tavis Stewart
Aug 17, 2011 @ 07:16:54
Hi Louisa
My husband moved here in Mirdif last November from the UK, we have three children 21, 15, 13. Our 21 yr old daughter is at University in the UK. Our 13 yr old boy was excepted at DESC on probation as he only scored 83% in the exam which is low here. If he doesnt do well he looses his place in January 2012. The same school refused our 15 yr old boy who has special needs (dyslexica and borders on ADHD) & low grades, we tried many other scools but came up with similar problems. After many months of research and applications our 15 yr old son was told he had a place in May, we secured the place with money and then was told the exam was only to assess his needs. We moved over here in July full of hope unfortunately we found out yesterday he has no longer got a place in DIS due to his low exam results. He had problems understanding and hearing the person for the spellings although this was mentioned and we were told he would get an interview however the headteacher decided ‘no’ in the end. So now we are at square one yet again, everywhere we try now, its either closed or out of our price range, which was one of the issues we had before May. We are considering the IB program now yet again the school is out of our price range mainly because the company my husband works for decided to back down on the school allowance so instead of 90% they are only offering 10% so its a struggle. We knew this before coming over so we got a cheaper villa allowing us to pay for fees until the company makes the final decision. I am applying to another school today in Jumeriah yet again I will have the same issues although the test is done on the computer with head phones so this is much better for our son. They were also recommended by the British Insitute of speacial needs (St Andrews School who only go up to year 9). My husband has informed me that the company will not pay towards any costs for homeschooling. My boys dont know anyone in the area and are quite bored now, so this would be a worry for me homeschooling the 15 yr old who loves his sport with all the energy he has. I feel totally let down by the system as I applied in plenty of time as well as the schools here dont have an obligation to school your child, just pick the creme de la creme. I read in an earlier message if you take you child out of the school system then you are unable to get them back in when a place is available for them at a school. I am absolutely gobsmacked at the lack of concern for the children who go under the radar. I have dyslexia myself and struggle to give proper instruction and knowledge to my son, so feel that I would need a tutor. Basically it balls down to costs so I need to know the averages of homeschooling here in dubai with a tutor.
At the moment I still dont have a car so I am house bound for the time being. If anyone has suggestions please feel free to contact me on tracysmiff@hotmail.com -
Best regards
Tracy
Sep 20, 2011 @ 14:11:52
Hi Louisa,
I home-school both my boy (15) and my girl (13) for Cambridge IGCSE O Levels. We live in Mirdiff and would like to share
Jun 14, 2011 @ 12:13:02
Hello, My name is Mel we just move to Dubai from Kuwait . Our son is using the A Beka Program. I was wondering if anyone else is using that system out here.? Also we are still new to the home schooling community so I was also look to find out about group setting for my son and support groups for parents..
Thanks for your Support
The Askew’s
Jun 21, 2011 @ 22:20:16
Salam
I would like to enroll my kids in homeschooling. I would appreciate if Amina could let me know more and how we can proceed with this homeschooling. My kids aged 10, 9 and 6years old.
Looking forward to hear from you…
Jun 22, 2011 @ 07:30:55
Salam, I understand our membership secretary has contacted you and we hope to welcome you onto our member’s forum soon. We also have a facebook group – if you search “Dubai and Nothern Emirates Homeschool Association”, you will find it.
Jun 22, 2011 @ 00:49:34
Assalam Alaekum
We are relocating to RAK by end of this year, Insha’Allah. We are considering home schooling as an option to continue the education of our children, keeping in view the choice of schools and the curriculum they offer in RAK. However, our main concern is that if the children study at home, rather than going to regular schools, would that have a negative impact over their mental growth and personality development? An argument against homeschooling is that kids require the company of same age group to learn and grow together.
Also, if we do homeschooling in UAE, is it possible for the kids to appear privately in O’Level exams? (Cambridge / Edexcel).
Currently my kids are in Grade 5 and 2
Best Regards,
Abu Hamza
Jun 22, 2011 @ 08:31:47
Hello Abu Hamza,
I hope others will be interested in addressing your concerns. The research shows that our children do very well socially as adults and more likely to be involved in their communities. There are many positive social elements to homeschooling. I am sure none of us would like to see our children suffer socially so we make huge efforts to meet up together and with others, be active in the community and take part in sports and hobbies with other children. Limiting children to the same age group may be less beneficial if they don’t learn how to get on with people of all ages and that is one of the advantages of homeschooling.
Private candidates are accepted by the British Council, so best to get hold of them. If you find out anything further, please share on the website so we can help others with the same questions.
Jun 22, 2011 @ 15:18:51
Hello Cathkins,
Thanks for your response. I will certainly contact the British Council and will share my findings here.
Jun 24, 2011 @ 23:20:38
Hello, I have four children aged 10, 7, 6 and 4. They are currently in school (the 4 year old due to start in Sept) following the British Curriculum and for many reasons I am seriously exploring the possibility of home schooling. I obviously have many questions and was hoping to speak or meet up with someone who could give me some insight into their own experiences of home schooling and give me some guidance.
Look forward to your response, Nichole
Jun 25, 2011 @ 07:30:30
Hi Nicole, I will post your request on our forum. We also have a facebook group which you are welcome to join. “Dubai an Northern Emirates Homeschool Association”
Jul 20, 2011 @ 12:07:57
Hi my name is Rebecca and my husband and i are looking at moving to Dubai next year(2012)from Australia. I have been looking at international schools and the fees are just crazy.. Is it legal to home school and do i need to register with any government department… i guess also is it hard to do for a 9 year old? and how many hours a day do you do with the children? this is all new to me but looks like our only option given the cost of fee’s.
Sep 10, 2011 @ 21:03:30
Hi Rebecca,
When are you planning to move to Dubai? My 10 year old son is being home schooled with a tutor. I take him to the tutor’s house each day. Let me know when you plan to arrive as your 9 year old my be able to join him.
Jul 25, 2011 @ 06:16:14
Hi, I am Sarah & we are moving to Dubai early next year. I am considering of homeschooling my 9 year old daughter and 6 year old son. I am new to home schooling and would love to hear from you all. How to start, which curriculum is good, etc. I am originally from the Philippines but have lived in Singapore for 15 years now. My children follows the Singapore curriculum and in some ways may be similar to the UK system. I would also love to hear if anyone is from Singapore/Malaysia as I would like my kids to continue their Mandarin lessons. Thank you.
Aug 24, 2011 @ 06:31:18
Hello Sarah Sia,
I know a Singaporean homeschooler, who is currently residing in Paksitan. She has a nice blog, called MAKING MEMORIES here:
http://imaan.net/
Perhaps she can be of help to you.
Nov 22, 2011 @ 18:43:12
hi, we are also new to Dubai…and we have a 6-year old girl…want to find some homeschool courses after school so that she will not feel lonely after school…we live in Marina area…and I would like to know if there is some group we can join in.. BTW, I can provide some free Mandarin classes….
Dec 01, 2011 @ 08:14:26
Hi Shanjia, we have many children currently homeschooling in Dubai in that age group. Search our ‘how to join’ section for an email contact for our Membership Secretary. Xie xie.
May 29, 2012 @ 13:40:53
Hi Everyone.
At last, we are here in Dubai. A little settled so far. Thank you for the link Erum and Shanjia, my kids would love to keep up with their Mandarin. Hope we can get together soon.
We are thinking of the K12 curriculum for the kids. Does anyone use any other curriculum?
Any suggestions?
Thank you.
May 29, 2012 @ 13:54:44
Hi Sarah, We homeschool in Bahrain. Just a thought, you might like to dip into my blog homeschoolingmiddleeast.wordpress.com Good luck in your journey and feel free to contact me! I am not a fan of ‘school at home’ so wouldn’t go that route but I know others are happy with it. Best wishes, Penny
May 30, 2012 @ 11:57:22
if u like to keep children busy that is clay modeling fun activity.Javed 050-3652151
Aug 03, 2011 @ 13:11:55
Hello fellow home-schoolers. I have decided to home school my 10 year old son from September 6th onwards. We are following the K12 curriculum. I have another 10 year-old boy studying with my son and we are looking for 2 more children – ideally boys around 10 years old, although that is not imperative as the children work to their own page. We prefer 4 children to study together as we have a tutor and all parents can share the cost of the tutor. Plus, it will help their social interaction. If you have a child you want to home school with a tutor, give me a call on 050 6558224.
Aug 03, 2011 @ 13:12:46
Oops!… the children work to their own ‘pace’ (not ‘page’).
Aug 08, 2011 @ 14:20:17
Dear Rebecca and Sarah,
It shows your posts were made on 20th and 25th July, yet they just popped into my IN box today – 8th August. As you will see in my post above, my 10 year old son will be home schooled from September onwards, using the K12 Academy curriculum. It is approved by the KHDA (Ministry of Education here) and therefore they would be able to transfer to a school if need be further down the line. You can visit the K12 website for more details… http://www.k12.com/int/
Aug 08, 2011 @ 19:17:52
Hi Corina, sorry about the delay – have been away.
Oct 16, 2011 @ 10:07:30
Hey Corrina, do u still need fellow learners for your boy. Only thing is I have a girl aged 9 but I’d like for her to be taught by a tutor.
Regards
Ulanda
Oct 16, 2011 @ 15:58:05
Hi Ulanda,
Actually the other boy’s mother changed her mind about home schooling early in September and I had not heard from anybody else, which left me in a tricky position. My son, Brad, is now attending K12 at KNowledge Village with their ‘learning coach’. So far so good. Looks like there is another 9 year old girl interested in sharing the tutor. All the best!
Aug 11, 2011 @ 11:00:49
Hello, I’m Asiya. We moved from the US a week ago to Dubai and I am going to begin homeschooling my kids this September. I have a 11 year old daughter and a 6 year old son. The curriculum we will be using is the Calvert program based out of Maryland . Is anyone else currently using this program or has so in the past?
Also, I was wondering about the kids connecting with other kids. It would be wonderful to get an idea of how I can go about that as well.
Thanks in advance!
Aug 12, 2011 @ 08:04:53
Hi Asiya,
I will be new to home schooling but I believe the users of this website organise get-togethers from time to time. I know K12 Academy (that’s the home schooling programme we will be following, they have a base in Knowledge Village where some of the children go to study) also organise get-togethers for home schoolers. I think it will all kick off during September when everybody is back. So, let’s keep an eye on this website. Regards, Corrina
Aug 23, 2011 @ 10:24:47
Hi Corrina,
We have ongoing activities, so please feel free to contact our membership secretary ( details in the How to Join section) and then you will have more info. This website is our public one but we have a more private forum for members and that’s where events are posted.
Sep 12, 2011 @ 22:45:47
Hello Corrina, my 10yr old son has just started at k12 at Knowledge village with a tutor in the mornings, I am interested in meeting with other homeschoolers in order to set up some physical activities in the afternoon. Please call me on 050 575 1923 if anyone interested. Thanks, Adrienne
Aug 13, 2011 @ 10:03:57
Hi, I moved to Dubai 3 months ago but due to the schooling issues my children 5 and 7 have stayed behind in South Africa untill I can enroll them. (what a nightmare) I have since then been considering homeschooling and have heard many good things about homeschooling but I am not really sure where to start. Please help!
Aug 28, 2011 @ 21:27:41
Hello Cindey,
I started homeschooling 2 years ago and my daughters were 4 and 5. Its a great thing in my experience but you must be ready to do lots of work yourself and dedicate your time and energy. I’d advise to do some research through internet, talk to homeschool parents if possible. Its good to know for sure why do you want to homeschool, to have strong reasons. DUNEHA is a great support group here in Dubai, feel free to contact us, meet with us. There are lots of families with kids the same ages as yours. In my opinion, homeschooling is a great family adventure. But you have to be ready to be flexible, patient, organized and optimistic and lots more!
regards,
Mavzuna
Aug 14, 2011 @ 10:23:21
Hello
Any home schoolers near motor city? I posted ages ago, and haven’t had very much internet access since then but am now up and running again. I have a 14 year old daughter studying with oxford home schooling. Also a 7 year old who is starting at GEMS in silicon oasis in september. Looking forward to meeting up with new people and anyone who wants to email me can at springlouisa@aol.com.
Aug 17, 2011 @ 16:05:31
Hi,
I am a Filipino national who is seriously thinking about the viability of homeschooling here in the UAE using the Philippine curriculum.
May i ask if you are aware if there is any demand for homeschooling using the Philippine curriculum among Filipino nationals?
I would like to know if there are like-minded individuals out there.
Thanks a lot.
Oct 08, 2011 @ 14:10:29
Hi EMs,
I am homeschooling my 2 kids, 11 y.o & 6 y.o. using Philippine Curriculum for 2 years now. We are enrolled in TMA (The Masters Academy) in the Philippines. All formalities are done there. Hope to meet with you.
Aug 22, 2011 @ 07:57:33
We are a family currently homeschooling in the USA, but are looking to possibly accept a job in the UAE. The job would most likely only last 1-3 years, so we would obviously eventually return to homeschool in the US. I have some questions regarding exactly what is required to homeschool there. Do I have to register my intent with anyone specific? Do I turn in attendance records to anyone? Is there a certain type of specific curricula required? We currently use a mix of curricula (as opposed to only K12, ABeka, or Calvert, etc), and would like to continue to do so if possible. Do I HAVE to use a program that is accredited in the UAE since we will not be enrolling the children in school there and will eventually be returning to the US? Are there any other special rules/regulations we need to be aware of? The ability to continue to homeschool our kids will be a HUGE factor in deciding to accept any job offer in the UAE.
Thank you for any guidance!
B.
Aug 23, 2011 @ 10:26:46
Hi B, you will find no legal difficulties with homeschooling here as an expat, especially as you don’t intend putting your children into school after.
Aug 27, 2011 @ 01:14:12
B ~
we were in your shoes last year! HS is okay for expats – no guidelines, no laws, no requirements. It is suggested that you follow the laws of the state you come from within reason. Let me know if you have any particular questions.
Jennifer
Aug 23, 2011 @ 08:36:00
I have a 7 yrs. old son but I’m having a Problem he dont want to go to school her sister is going, do you have a home study program.he knows how to write and distingues abc’s colors count add minus, all I need is a home study school. Thank you it would be a great help if you can tell me where I will go..
Sep 02, 2011 @ 00:26:04
Hi Everyone,
I am homeschooling my 4 and a half year old son. We spend half the year here in Dubai and the other half in New York (usually here every other month). I am currently using the starfall curriculum and IXL.com for math. So far, so good…I think most will agree that homeschooling is still a stigma here in the UAE. We are in the Mirdif area (Shorooq Development), if anyone in the area would like to network and get together please feel free to contact me navlette04@yahoo.com. I would love details on how to join this program also. Thanks and best regards.
Sep 07, 2011 @ 16:50:38
Hi,
I am homeschooling a 4 and a half year old and would certainly like to talk with you. Please email me your details.
Regards,
Navlette
Sep 12, 2011 @ 10:13:20
I am clay modeling teacher. I would like to do clay modeling workshop with any homeschooling. I also arrange art activity for the birthday party. 050-3652151
Sep 13, 2011 @ 15:46:00
I am considering homeschooling my children. I am completely disappointed by the school they were going to in sharjah. I think Calvert is a good school. Please advise.
Sep 17, 2011 @ 02:13:09
Hi there, I have a 8 year old typical child and a 10 year old atypical. They have been going to school in Dubai for 5 years, and now I chose Calvert, they have a curriculum that caters to both my children, I will start the 18th, getting organized and until now all instructions are straight forward. Wish me luck!
Sep 16, 2011 @ 11:50:33
Books for British curriculum for all grades in good condition for AED 20 – 35. Easy to follow with exercises and to do questions. Simple for moms to teach and explain. Get free workbooks with purchases. Pickup in Dubai, Al mamzar. Contact me on my email or mobile number 0504589274
Sep 20, 2011 @ 16:31:11
Hi Vicky, do you also have book for A level maths, physics and chemistry.
Thanks,
Adrienne
Sep 17, 2011 @ 15:32:27
Hi,
I have noticed most parents here have under teens children. I was wondering if any parents have experience of home schooling kids in their teens? If yes, how do you manage / prepare for O’Levels / K-12 mode? What are the options for College? what about socializing and development of skills that will be required in college / work life?
Sep 18, 2011 @ 11:48:27
Hi,
We have a 13 years old daughter Noor doing the UK school progam on-line.
How old is your child/children and would they be interested in meeting Noor.
Masalaam
Tavis and Asil
Sep 17, 2011 @ 23:21:17
Hi tahimy, I am concerned about their admission in a traditional school next year. Is calvert accepted in the UAE as it is not registered with KHDA? I wish you good luck with the program.
Sep 19, 2011 @ 10:39:36
Hi,
We have a 15 year old son, living in Dubai, He wants to Homestudy his IGCSE’s.
Does the Ministry of Education allow this, If it is allowable where can he sit the exams next summer in the UAE?, or does he have to sit them in the UK?
Once we have made a final decision regarding this, We will apply to join your group.
Sep 20, 2011 @ 16:06:12
Hi John,
Oue 13 year old is doing her iGCSE’s in 2012. As far as we know she can take them here at one of the british schools if you can get them to agree. As long as its at a recognised exam centre its fine for the UK board of Education.
However, concerning the UAE. Th eauthority here does not recognise home schooling for entry into college or university so its bet to do the exams in the UK to at least have a better chance here for further education.
Regards
Tavis
050 875 5264
Sep 20, 2011 @ 14:21:34
Really glad I found this site. I’m not alone anymore!!! Sigh…
I am currently in Malaysia for our holiday and will be back in Dubai on 26th Sept’11. Would like to join your group for activities, etc etc….
Fyi I home-schooled my boy (15) and my girl (13) for Cambridge IGCSE O Levels. I am planning for my son to take up the O Levels in June 2012, and my girl in June 2013. Feel free to contact me
rgds,
Salina
Sep 20, 2011 @ 16:02:54
Hi Salina,
We have a 13 year old girl doing her iGCSE’s in 2012 and have already met with Louisa so maybe we can meet with her and Mari to meet your guys as well.
Regards
Tavis
050 875 5264
Oct 16, 2011 @ 13:25:31
Hi Salina
We have enjoyed meeting Tavis and his lovely family, and it is nice to meet other teen home schoolers. I was talking to Mari about a teen group of some kind, and will mention to Tavis. If you want to contact me my number is 050 3768602
Oct 18, 2011 @ 16:02:52
I have a 12 yr old, (in addition to a 10 1/2 and 9 yr old,) who are currently in school but I am debating pulling them out to home school them. The education is lacking and so are the educators, I feel. With 3 kids, we cannot afford the “best money can buy” schools in Dubai so home schooling is our only option. I have many questions though! Can anyone help me? How much does a home schooling program cost? We will loose half our tuition this year by pulling them out so cost is definitely a factor right now. I come from a family of teachers but am not one myself, so I am unsure as to how to even start the homeschooling process. If you can help, please email me at kerri@ebertowski.net. Thank you!!
Oct 18, 2011 @ 21:03:30
Hi Salina,
Lets organise something with Louisa for Mari, Noor and your guys ro meet up maybe just for a lunch in MOE or something.
Tavis
Oct 18, 2011 @ 23:10:21
Hi Tavis,
Love the idea…yes will do. Let us settle down first after long holiday. Will contact you soon to arrange. By the way, I owe Aminah a phone call too…
rgds,
salina
Sep 23, 2011 @ 17:34:49
Hi, we have just moved to Dubai from the UK and our children have just started school here – they are a boy 7 and a girl 10. We would like our Daughter to go to a private school in the UK after Year 8 and for this she needs to sit Common Entrance exams. My Husband and I have both agreed homeschooling is a very viable option and it seems that there is a great support network in Dubai for homeschooling. Can anyone offer any wise words or has any information regarding the Common Entrance option and possiblities attached to this. Your web site is inspirational on those bad – and good days thank you.
Sasha
Oct 04, 2011 @ 11:38:16
Hi, I have just moved to Al Ain, UAE from South Africa and have discovered that our education system is 1 year behind the UAE requirements. I have a 9 yr old daughter, which I am now considering putting into the K12 system, however I work full time and was wondering if there are any tutors in the area that would work with her for 2 hours a day or prehaps any suggestions?
Oct 16, 2011 @ 10:15:13
Hey Cherise, I live in Abu dhabi and also have a 9 year old daughter. We are also from South Africa and I’m also in the process of home schooling her. Maybe we can get a tutor to educate both of them.
Regards
Ulanda
Oct 16, 2011 @ 21:01:19
My son, aged 5, is currently in a KG2 program at an international school. He is having some difficulties so I am seriously considering homeschooling. I am concerned about the social aspect and really believe he needs to work in small groups. Is there a group already going? I could use some support on social activities, curriculum choice, etc.
Oct 18, 2011 @ 15:47:09
My kids are currently attending a Duabi school but I am not at all happy with the education they are receiving or the school personel themselves and am thinking of home schooling them, at least for this school year. I am reluctant to home school, though as I have heard that once you home school, your child will not be allowed to attend an actual school. Does anyone know if this is true?
Nov 03, 2011 @ 22:20:30
I was just wondering, me and my 13 year old daughter are living in the UK, and want to mov eot te UAE, we’ve found a house, b i don’t want to enrol her into a school because I’m afraid she might fall behind, she doesn’t know a lot of arabic, so I need british home schooling, based on the UK curriculum, does anyone know if this is possible? thanks
Nov 04, 2011 @ 00:50:29
Hi, my 13 year old srep daughter is home schooling using Interhigh which is a UK based internet homeschool. It’s the same corriculum as Uk and is based in Wales.
She also tops this up with 2 evenings of tutoring at Power Tutoring in Knowledge Village.
Take a look at http://www.interhigh.net the other alternative is the Oxford system which is book based.
Regards
Tavis Stewart
050 875 5264
Dec 01, 2011 @ 08:16:58
Hi Masana, quite a few of us are homeschooling older children using the British curriculum – Interhigh and Oxford homeschooling are two popular choices.
Dec 01, 2011 @ 12:48:31
Hi Masana,
I homeschooled 2 of my teens (13 & 16) since last year and they will be taking the Cambridge IGCSE exams in May/June and Oct/November 2012. They are taking the exams as private candidates at the British Council in Dubai. So far, the link below has helped me a lot in understanding better the syllabus and finding suitable materials for them to practise.
http://www.cie.org.uk/
I monitor & discipline them properly and they have a proper schedule of 9am – 1pm (Sun – Thurs) to do their revisions. However, I let them join few events organize by DUNEHA (like book club & chess club) for them to socialize and share their hobbies.
I hope the above helped and if you need more info do not hesitate to contact me at 050 282 3626. Sometimes, I may not be able to answer your call, but do SMS me and I will definitely get back to you the soonest. Best of luck!!
rgds,
Salina
Nov 09, 2011 @ 15:06:14
Hello all
Introducing Read ‘N’ Enjoy, a library located in JBR, Dubai Marina. We have an extensive collection of children books to borrow, ranging from babies & toddlers to teens. We also have an online book rental system whereby you can choose the books online and we deliver it to you house ‘free’ in Dubai (delivery charges apply in other emirates). Check http://www.readnenjoy.com/library
We host lot of events in our library such as storytimes, arts and crafts, puppet shows, etc. Check us on: http://www.facebook.com/readnenjoy
Nov 20, 2011 @ 13:30:04
Hi
I would like to know if there is anyone in Al Ain who is busy with homeshcooling. I am looking for a group where my daughter can go to. She needs to start grade six.
Thank you
Sharon
Nov 30, 2011 @ 02:50:51
Hi,
I was really impressed with ur web site and can tell confidentally it was very helpful. My question is, if my daughter was home schooled for KG 2 and grade 1. What kind of challanges and difficulties that might face me if I will enrol her in a regular school?!
Please advise
Mona
Dec 01, 2011 @ 08:12:12
Hi Mona,
Many homeschoolers have reintroduced their children into school at some point and after 2 years of home ed, I don’t think you can expect any difficulties except the normal ones: making friends, etc which everyone has to face in a new environment. If anything, an extra 2 years at home can give a young child a bit more confidence than having started earlier.
Dec 01, 2011 @ 14:59:12
Thanks Cathkins for your reply. But, if I homeschool my daughter for KG2 and Gr 1, will the UAE ministry of Education enrol her officially for grade 2 in any private school?!? Or should I register her in K12 homeschool office bcos it’s the only homeschooling body that is accredited by the moe??
I live in Warqa that is close to Mirddif and looking for homeschoolers at the same area that have kids at her age. She is 3 and ahalf now.
Thanks
Dec 10, 2011 @ 11:42:56
Hi Mona, I cannot say for certain what the different responses of schools will be, but so far none of our members have had problems getting children back into school. K12 is the only body that is accredited but other families have got transcripts from various curriculum providers they are registered with and this has been enough usually.
Dec 05, 2011 @ 10:27:18
SPELLING BEE (FREE EVENT)
To engage students and families in English literacy, Sylvan Learning and the Arabian Center are hosting a free series of spelling bees. Held on Thursday and Friday evenings in December from 7-9pm, the bees are open to all students in Grades 3-5 / Years 4-6. The championship will be held on Thursday, December 22 at 7:00pm.
All participants will receive certificates of completion, and the top winners for each grade will receive awards and the opportunity to compete for a trophy in the championship.
Register for this free event: contact.sylvan.mirdif@gmail.com (04 236 2227).
Dec 06, 2011 @ 17:58:07
Hi All, support.
We are planning to start Private Schooling in Knowledge Village to offer high quality lessons at very affordable fees for High School students (Year 10 onwards).
Do let me know if you need any help and
Dec 09, 2011 @ 23:04:42
hi am a 15 years old boy living in UAE and an in grade 10. i dont why i want to join homeschool but am not happy at all in my life because i feel that am wasting time in my normal school and i dont have a social life because i have barely friends. when i get out of school a lot of people thinks that i have a great personality a mature person but in school i get bullied all the time. my first language is arabic,my second language is english and am learning frenc and chinese by the way i didnt even ask my parents about this whole thing. can u plz help?
Dec 10, 2011 @ 11:37:51
Hi Mohamad, it sounds as if you are unhappy in school and think you would be better off if you continued your schooling at home/on your own. It is best if you talk to your parents and get them to contact us as they are your guardians. There are a lot of useful websites out there and there are many approaches you can take to your studies – school is not the only option. We wish you all the best!
Dec 27, 2011 @ 17:58:36
Unfortunately you are not telling anything about who is behind your association, who are the teachers, who are the board members etc. .
We are organizing a conference on the Education sector with German private and public institutions in the UAE.
I found your homeschooling association on the internet. And would be interested to know more about your association.
Regards,
Helmut von Siedmogrodzki
Dec 30, 2011 @ 00:07:07
Hi Helmut,
We are a group made up of homeschooling parents who educate our children ourselves, sometimes with the help of tutors, using a variety of methods, styles and curriculae. If you would like to know more, please email us. What exactly did you have in mind for your conference?
Dec 29, 2011 @ 17:53:21
We are considering a move to Dubai. We have always homeschooled. The boys are in middle school and high school. I don’t need support for homeschooling, as we are experienced homeschoolers and know what we will be doing in that regard for the next couple of years. But we will certainly need a social network…and if that involves an educational component, even better.
Please tell me about the number of active pre-teens/teens in your group. Are there activities geared toward this age group? Do they get together socially? Any information will be helpful.
Thank you in advance.
Dec 30, 2011 @ 00:18:23
Hi Katrina, no problem with the pre-teens. Lots of them and meet-ups at least once a week. For the teens, it’s more erratic but recently we have started a book club for the teen girls, with a possibility for a boys’ book club. We have had teen co-ordinators and sometimes events are well attended and sometimes there isn’t enough interest. There are loads of extra-mural activities on offer to all children in Dubai , making it easy to socialise and build a social network. It doesn’t mean the homeschooled teens aren’t out there but have usually found that they are busier, with prep for college, etc taking centre stage. If you do decide to move to Dubai, please feel free jump right in – we could always do with experienced home-educators.
Jan 02, 2012 @ 09:59:00
Dear Cathkins
Happy New Year!
My name is Vivian
Kindly i need to speak to you on Home schooling – Pls can i call you? Kindly inbox me your number
Best Regards
Jan 03, 2012 @ 10:26:33
Hi Vivian, best to contact me on Facebook: Our facebook group is “Dubai and Northern Emirates Homeschooling.”
Jan 05, 2012 @ 11:19:41
#trans thanks good for topic
Jan 06, 2012 @ 17:22:39
Hi!
My daughter is 14 years old and she’s studies at AMS she’s a 9th grader
She has problems fitting in school and she’s my only child and I am always concerned when she goes to school
How. Do I submit her to home schooling and how dies it work.will she fail or pass and can it be in the middle of the year
Jan 07, 2012 @ 00:15:56
Hi Hind, I am presuming you are enquiring about enrolling your daughter in a homeschooling program? You will have to do some research as to what curriculum you wish to follow and take your decision from there. If the course is similar, she will continue her studies at home. If there are new courses involved, she may have to catch up with others, but more importantly she will learn how to set her own pace and it will be up to her (and you as a family) to make homeschooling a success. Homeschooling can start when you choose and go in the direction that’s right for her. Best of luck with this!
Jan 07, 2012 @ 14:22:03
Hi cathkins, first of all thanks for keep this website with all the information relevant to homeschooling. I´m from Colombia, now living here in Dubai, my daughter is 5 years old and will be arriving around March. We have thinking about this form of education, but I have the following doubts, any help will be appreciated:
1. We are very worried about the English, because my wife and my daughter they don´t speak it, so in that case How we can reinforce the English as a second language?, is this also part of the homeschooling?.
2. Can my wife follow any homeschooling program? or does she need a tutor to teach my daughter?
3. For the next September if we can get a place in a school, the homeschooling it´s enough to be accepted on the 2012-2013 curriculum?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Jan 07, 2012 @ 17:03:44
Hello Jorge.
Moving to the UAE is a big transition for education. We already feel pressure to decide between home or traditional schooling for our two year old daughter. Sylvan Learning has helped hundreds of newly arrived children in the UAE who needed to improve their English in time to begin studies. Our Abu Dhabi center has children from Columbia, and your embassy may be able to advise you.
Jan 08, 2012 @ 08:51:47
Hi William, thanks for your help. I´ll contact Sylvan Learning here in Dubai. The issue with my embassy is that the nearest is in Egypt, we don´t have embassy here in UAE.
Jan 15, 2012 @ 16:53:35
Hi Iam Preeti,really found your intiatie quite interesting,though my son ,goes to school and is in grade2,but because of the cbse-i curriculum ,I e be a consatnt support for him.I just dont where to begin.I would like his english to be on par with international boards.So I would very much like to be apart of this group.I ve some ideas like likeminded parents could get their children together at aplace and take turns teaching the kids.
Jan 17, 2012 @ 07:18:03
hi
we have a 5 years old daughter m she is on Kg2 in an arabic school
I would like to homeschool here as a plus is english ciruculum how can i start ?
best regards
Feb 06, 2012 @ 12:56:50
Dubai & Northern Emirates Spelling Challenge
This free community event will be held on Fridays and Saturdays throughout February. Pick the date that works best for your family (10th, 11th, 17th, and 18th). Every child will be applauded and rewarded for their participation.
~ Grades 6-8: Arabian Center (7-9pm) 04 236 2227 for more info & to register
~ Grades 3-5: Dubai Marina Mall (2-4pm) 04 434-5400 for more info & to register
Feb 08, 2012 @ 12:40:59
Hi i am looking to homeschool my 8 and half year old son from september 2012. He is currently going to british curriculum school in year 3 but is not being able to cope academically or socially. He has some mild developmental delays (on the autistic spectrum/adhd so schooling has been very hard on him. His confidence and self esteem are totally shot while his anxiety is sky high. I have looked into K12 as its the only fully recognized system here from what they tell me. But i would definitely need a special tutor for him as i cant possibly do it. Please help!
Also i would love to meet up with some families who are homeschooling their kids preferably boys of same age group or slightly older so we can exchange notes as social aspect of this is also very important and challenging.
Feb 14, 2012 @ 15:03:31
HI Anna,I am in a VERY similar situation to you, and although Gordon is a year younger than your son, my write up on him would be snap to what you have written. I would still love to meet up with you at some stage – sooner rather than later too! I don’t beleive I am teacher material either and would also prefer to hire a tutor. We currently do have a tutor for Gordon but she is not familiar with the K12 system, however this opens up a number of possibilites if we have someone sharing the financial costs involved, and she is lovely (the tutor). If this programme is meant for mums and dads to just pick up and start, i dont see any reason why our tutor wouldnt be able to do it. Maybe the three of us could meet? we are in Silicon Oasis, and my number is Jaime 0508569475.
Feb 16, 2012 @ 15:05:55
HI Jamie, great to know someone understands! I am most certainly going to get in touch with you but currently we are still trying to get zain into another school. If all else fails we shall be left with no option but to homeschool. So we should know in a month or so where we stand. If we do decide to do K12 i am very much interested in looking into sharing tutor etc. My number if you would like to ever chat/meet up for coffee is 050 886 2496. Best regards. Amna
Feb 11, 2012 @ 21:55:53
Hello, it wou’ld be appreciated if you could forward me as much as possible information on homeschooling. My sister is iterested in moving from South Africa to the UAE and her son is currenly in GR9 – Their school year is from Jan – Dec. By the end of 2012 he would have completed GR9. But the year in the AUE is from Sept on, which means that he would have already missed almost 4 onths of his GR10 year in the UAE when they arrive in Jan 2013, that is why we are interested in homeschooling. All information will be welcome. I reside in the Northern Emirates, but have no kids at school.
Feb 14, 2012 @ 15:17:18
The K12 International program has start times all throughout the year! My daughter just started her 6th grade year on Feb 2! They at great. Go to their website or call with any questions. They have 4 offices worldwide and one of them is in Dubai.
http://Www.k12.com
Feb 14, 2012 @ 14:24:20
I am sitting here in tears and cannot stop crying. We have been turned away from another school – making it 8 schools now, and I just dont know where to begin. the idea of homeschooling all on my own and growling at my precious boy all day makes my stomach turn. We have been highly reccommended to do the K12 system and then look at enrolling him again in a few years time if we still want to do that then. I dont know that I am a mum that will do this job effectively firstly, and this prospect gives me visions of putting our son off education for life as well as loathing me for doing it so badly. What do I do, please help! we are new to Dubai and I have never been as weak as I have this year, this whole education deal has been one of the worst and most stressful things i can honeslty say I have to deal with in my life. Our son is 7yrs 6 months and I would be so grateful for some direction…..
Feb 14, 2012 @ 15:18:07
Sorry, my original reply was on the main page. He it is again!
Jaime, we just started the K12 program with my 6th grader and I will be pulling my other daughters from their current school into the K12 program for the 2012-2013 school year. The K12 program is very well organized and doesn’t require a lot of work on the parents end. They set up the cirriculum, send you all the materials, and have the lesson plans all set up in a great daily plan schedule. All you need to do is to help your child with the lessons provided! It’s a great system with a lot of support! I don’t know this for sure, but I have heard that K12 will also teach your child at their offices in Knowledge Village for a larger tuition amount but I do not know for sure. My kids currently attend Nibras International in Green Community in grades 4 & 5 and although we are not happy with the cirriculum for the older students, grades 5 and up, we have heard great things about the younger grades so that is also an option. I do know they still have openings for next year. Just be prepared to transfer them in the future as they get older if you too do not like the older grade cirriculum. I would definitely recommend K12, though! I was nervous and apprehensive before we started but I love the program and everyone has been great! I hope it all works out for you!
Feb 14, 2012 @ 15:31:13
Dear Jaime,
And believe me, homeschooling has nothing to do with “growling at your child all day”. I am in my third year homeschooling 3 out of 6 of my kids and I gained some experience to speak up for homeschooling 

You sound lost and in despair and I couldn’t help replying to your post. I think your situation is not as bad as you think it is. First, your son is only 7,5 years old. He is in right age to start school. Second, there is not that much they teach in schools at this age. Third, you could start homeschooling with K12 or other program for his first year and will have that whole year to find and enroll him into a regular school. Forth, he got his whole life ahead of him to study! few months here or there will not make a big difference
I will be happy to meet with you or talk to you more if you need, my e-mail is tsc.mavzuna@gmail.com and my phone # is 0505086316. Feel free to write or call.
Everything will be just fine! Try to look at the bright side
Mavzuna Scanlon
Feb 14, 2012 @ 15:48:31
Dear Jaime, I have heard great things about K12 from families that I know who have children there. We also have friends with children in Nibras and have heard good things about their elementary program (including from an educational advisor who has worked with them in the past).
In addition, here are a couple of other ideas:
1) Call kidsFIRST and see if their occupational therapists can provide any help (050 410 5587). They work directly with many schools, and may be able to advise regarding a suitable one for your child’s needs.
2) Call Sylvan Learning in Mirdif and speak with Jeffrey, their director (04 236 2227). He is a good listener and may be able to provide some ideas or suggestions regarding support or schools that may work for you.
Feb 14, 2012 @ 15:15:18
Jaime, we just started the K12 program with my 6th grader and I will be pulling my other daughters from their current school into the K12 program for the 2012-2013 school year. The K12 program is very well organized and doesn’t require a lot of work on the parents end. They set up the cirriculum, send you all the materials, and have the lesson plans all set up in a great daily plan schedule. All you need to do is to help your child with the lessons provided! It’s a great system with a lot of support! I don’t know this for sure, but I have heard that K12 will also teach your child at their offices in Knowledge Village for a larger tuition amount but I do not know for sure. My kids currently attend Nibras International in Green Community in grades 4 & 5 and although we are not happy with the cirriculum for the older students, grades 5 and up, we have heard great things about the younger grades so that is also an option. I do know they still have openings for next year. Just be prepared to transfer them in the future as they get older if you too do not like the older grade cirriculum. I would definitely recommend K12, though! I was nervous and apprehensive before we started but I love the program and everyone has been great! I hope it all works out for you!
Feb 15, 2012 @ 08:40:14
thank you so much Kerri, William and Mavzuna for your advice, I am so grateful and feel like I am not alone on this road which is reassuring to say the least..
We had already enrolled Gordon in the Sylvan Learning Centre at Mirdiff, and have a private tutor who comes to our house every day but is not teaching Gordon any cirriculum as such – just working on his weak areas, and I was hoping to make this more formal through K12. I need to have him on a programme that is recognised by schools here. However, from reading the site, I wonder if we will ever want to go back to main stream schooling! I am taking Gordon to the next meeting at the beach in Jumeriah – so I hope to and look forward to meeting you there!
Feb 15, 2012 @ 12:53:43
Way to go Jaime! I was wondering if you’d have doubts about sending your son back to regular school after the homeschool experience
Glad its all working out.
Hope to meet you soon!
Mavzuna
Feb 15, 2012 @ 10:58:38
Jaime, my son is following the K12 program which he started in September. We are really happy with the program (most importantly, he is really happy) and he goes to Knowledge Village every morning and has a tutor there. So he gets to mix with other kids. The program allows a student to work and his/her own level and is definitely a higher level of education than you can find in any of the schools here. And we have been in a few!
Good luck with your choice and know you are not alone.
Feb 23, 2012 @ 14:11:55
FREE FAMILY READING EVENTS (starting February 23rd)
Join Sylvan Learning and VOX Cinemas for the 2012 launch of READ ACROSS THE GULF – a celebration of literacy and the love of reading.
There will be FACE PAINTING, STORYTELLING, and other FUN ACTIVITIES, anticipating the March film release of Dr. Seuss’ book, The Lorax.
DETAILS (February 23rd & 24th)
- Mirdif City Centre (Friday & Saturday from 3-5pm)
- Mall of the Emirates (Saturday from 1-5pm)
Note: The Free VOX Cinema events will continue throughout the month of March until The Lorax is no longer showing. Please contact Sylvan Learning to confirm the dates and times on the weekend you hope to attend.
Feb 23, 2012 @ 18:20:30
Hi…I have a 2.5 yr old daughter and I’m planning to home school her. I was advised by a friend that school here starts at age 3 and I find that age too early for school. I really would love to start her on homeschooling but I don’t know howand where to start. Are there parents out there with kids of the same age group as mine that’s also planning to pursue home schooling. Your website is so helpful for parents with the same concerns as ours. Thanks.
Apr 06, 2012 @ 18:18:33
Hi Angela, You could check out my blog homeschoolingmiddleeast.wordpress.com which talks about homeschooling a 7 and 3 year old although in all honesty I don’t like to talk about homeschooling a 3 year old because I don’t think 3 year olds should be anywhere near a school, even a home one – far too young! I think I’m simply a mother to her which entails, by my definition, a rich learning environment, including helping her discover the letter sounds and now reading phonetically regular words but all very, very gentle. There’s a group of mums here who cooperatively school their under 4s. They have a page on facebook called ‘Bahrain Cooperative Playschool’. https://www.facebook.com/groups/189207981124200/ The Mums and kids get together for an hour or so once a week. Each Mum has a go on a weekly rotating basis. You can see their lesson plans on their page. It’s not rocket science! You could start a group with some like-minded friends. There are plenty in the Emirates and since it’s only once a week (although you could meet daily if you preferred) you would get people travelling a fair distance for it I’m sure. It’s not my thing, too directed, but it might suit you. Just a thought
Mar 08, 2012 @ 19:05:16
i love home shool
Mar 23, 2012 @ 09:37:23
Hi, I’ve just started a blog, 3 weeks ago, called homeschoolingmiddleeast.wordpress.com It already has over a 1,000 readers! Please do visit and comment on it. It would be great to hear your feedback. Best wishes to all!
Apr 06, 2012 @ 02:17:40
Hello. I home-educate in England, but came across this site while reading up on home-ed elsewhere, and thought of a few things which might be useful to note here.
Those of you who come from the UK, or who are considering studying towards UK public exams, might find the HE-Exams yahoogroup helpful. It’s for home educators who want to find out about UK formal qualifications, and there are a few members who are expats. Many members have children studying for International GCSEs (IGCSEs), both in the UK and for expats. IGCSEs are often the only practical option for us in the UK because of the coursework element of standard GCSEs. It’s OK though – the exams are well regarded and recognised by universities etc..
The address of the HE-Exams group is http://groups.yahoo.com/group/HE-Exams-GCSE-A_AS_Levels-OU-Others .
You do not need to do a distance learning course to pass IGCSEs. You can enter as a private candidate, and many of us do a do-it-yourself approach, where our children work through the set textbook, read around the subject themselves, and do lots of practice exam papers. The parent does not need to be an expert in the subject, though this approach is easier for some subjects than others. For maths and sciences, for instance, the textbooks teach the child exactly what’s needed for the syllabus and have plenty of exercises to work through, and the answers are provided so you or they can mark the work. When it comes to time to do practice exam papers, you can download these free online from the exam board ( Edexcel International GCSEs, and CIE IGCSEs are popular), and likewise the marking scheme and the examiners’ reports, with their comments and tips. Sometimes it’s not clear what more the correspondence courses really offer for the money; I think parents pay for peace of mind, but don’t always get it anyway!
I saw that some comments mentioned Oxford Open Learning/ Oxford Homeschool etc.. You might like to discuss this on the HE-Exams list, as other members have mixed experiences of this provider, and others. Another option which you might have heard of is the internet school – Interhigh and Briteschool are the UK ones I’ve heard most of, with most positive comments for Interhigh. Students ‘sign in’ for online lessons at 9.30 AM UK time, finishing around 12.00, so maybe that could be manageable with the time difference? It would just be afternoon school for you guys, and morning school for those here! See http://www.interhigh.co.uk/
For those thinking of returning to the UK system at some point, maybe you don’t need to worry too much. Many home-ed kids in the UK go to school at some point, often without having done much formal studying beforehand, and they generally fit in well. Certainly there is no need to show proof of having followed any particular curriculum or programme, and schools in the UK will not make you re-do years. When home-ed children go to school here, they start school in the appropriate year for their age, and invariably they soon catch up. If you are already in the GCSE years (usually 15-16) and need GCSEs for further or higher education then you can take the usual minimum requirement of five or so in a single year, to give you access to sixth form study.
Good luck, all!
Apr 15, 2012 @ 12:43:39
I would like to homeschool my daughter.she goes to AAG and is in kg2.she has US curriculum.I have no idea where to start with and would like to whether it is possible to reintegrate her back to school if I find difficulty in homeschooling and how can we provide the transfer certificate and recent progress card to the school. Thank you.
Apr 16, 2012 @ 12:18:50
Hi, I have a son 5 and half yrs old, he has developmental delay (speech delay and motor skills).This year I put him in the school with British curriculum but unfortunately he is not able to cope in his class academically & socially. When the kids run around him fast and push him he really gets scared and becoming depressed as he is not able to finish his task at time. So i have taken him out of the school and heard about home schooling. Please guide me how to start from the beginning as he has problem in writing. I want to start from kg1.
Apr 30, 2012 @ 14:57:42
Hi Farheen. Whether you do homeschooling or stay in mainstream schools, your son sounds like he needs therapy for his speech and motor skills. kidsFIRST (http://www.kidsfirstmc.com/) offers support both through schools and in their Umm Al Sheif medical center. I’m sure they can help. All the best with your homeschooling journey!
Apr 26, 2012 @ 09:24:17
14 year old Dubai Homeschooler, Line Dalile, publishes education perspective in Huffinton Post… http://www.huffingtonpost.com/line-dalile/a-dictator-racing-to-nowh_b_1409138.html