Most people choose something in between. As homeschoolers become older and more independent, it is often easier for them to record their activities themselves. A calendar can serve as a daily log, a notebook can be used to record books and reference materials, and a file box can hold samples of artwork, photos of projects, etc. We started out simple, but found we really enjoyed adding to our scrapbook. The Home Education Act calls for an annual evaluation of some kind.
Many parents choose standardized testing.
P.E.C. provides this testing once a year,and some private schools may offer testing to individuals. Secondly, a teacher certified by the State of Florida can conduct an interview style evaluation,looking over logbooks, examining portfolios, and talking with parents and children. This can be a low stress alternative to testing, or a more accurate way to evaluate children who do not perform well on standardized tests. A third option is to have your child evaluated by a psychologist. This,too, can be a low stress, nurturing way to go.