Researchers estimate approximately 1.7 million school-aged children in the United States are homeschooled in some fashion, because of dissatisfaction with public school teaching methods, religious beliefs or for other reasons. Some homeschooling experts believe that while the Internet has enormous potential as a source for educational material for homeschooled kids, it's biggest role so far has been as a resource and support network for parents who act as their children's teachers. Net support groups can be lifesavers, especially for families who don't know anyone else who chooses the same educational path. The Houston group meets monthly, and keeps in touch via e-mail and the Web the rest of the time. Aside from offering moral support, advocates believe the Net can be a great resource and online reference desk.
Some families go online to look up and reserve books at their local library.
Others let their kids wander until they hit on things that catch their interest. Often times, that doesn't get introduced until later levels in school. But opinions are divided on how good a teacher the Net makes. You can't just drop a kid in front of a computer with an Farenga of Holt Associates, said. They need you there to catch them, to support them emotionally and physically,'' Farenga said.