How to Start Homeschooling: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Start Homeschooling: A Step-by-Step Guide

By The Home School Wiz

Homeschooling has grown tremendously in popularity over the last decade. Whether it's due to concerns about school quality, a desire for more family time, religious or moral reasons, or the flexibility it offers, more and more families are choosing to educate their children at home.

If you're considering homeschooling but feel overwhelmed, you're not alone. The good news is that starting doesn't have to be confusing. With the right guidance and resources, you can build a thriving home education experience that works for your unique family.

In this post from The Home School Wiz, we’ll walk you through a clear, step-by-step guide on how to start homeschooling, from understanding your local laws to creating a daily routine. Each step includes exactly what you need to do so that you can begin your homeschooling journey with confidence and clarity.

Step 1: Research Your State’s Homeschool Laws

Why It Matters:

Homeschooling laws vary widely depending on where you live. Some states have strict regulations, while others are more relaxed. Understanding your legal responsibilities is critical before you begin.

What You Need:

  • Your state’s Department of Education website

  • HSLDA (Home School Legal Defense Association) https://hslda.org/

  • Pen and notebook or a digital file to keep records

What To Do:

  • Visit your state’s Department of Education website to locate their homeschooling laws.

  • Use the HSLDA site to get a plain-language breakdown of your state’s requirements.

  • Note down the legal steps you’ll need to take, such as:

    • Filing a notice of intent to homeschool

    • Maintaining attendance records

    • Submitting annual assessments or test scores

    • Keeping a portfolio of student work

⚠️ Some states require notification before you withdraw your child from public school. Follow the correct process to avoid legal trouble.

Step 2: Withdraw Your Child from Their Current School (If Applicable)

Why It Matters:

To begin homeschooling legally, you must properly withdraw your child from their existing school, especially if they are currently enrolled in public or private school.

What You Need:

  • Official withdrawal letter

  • Your notice of intent (if required)

  • Any required state documents

What To Do:

  • Draft a withdrawal letter stating your intent to homeschool. Include your child's name, date of birth, grade level, and the date you are beginning homeschooling.

  • Submit the letter to the school principal or district office.

  • Retain a copy of all correspondence for your records.

  • Follow up to confirm they processed the withdrawal.

✅ Tip: Keep your tone polite and professional. You are simply notifying them of your legal right to homeschool.

Step 3: Choose a Homeschooling Method or Style

Why It Matters:

There are many ways to homeschool. Your approach will shape your daily routine, curriculum choices, and overall educational philosophy.

What You Need:

  • Time to explore various homeschooling styles

  • Books, podcasts, blogs, and videos on homeschooling methods

Popular Homeschooling Styles:

  • Classical – Focuses on logic, rhetoric, and a strong foundation in the liberal arts.

  • Charlotte Mason – Literature-based, emphasizes nature study and living books.

  • Montessori – Child-led learning with hands-on activities and real-life experiences.

  • Unschooling – Learning through life experiences, child interest-driven.

  • Eclectic – A mix of different styles tailored to your child’s needs.

What To Do:

  • Read about different methods.

  • Reflect on your child’s learning style and your family’s values.

  • Choose one or two styles to try—remember, you can always adjust later!

Step 4: Select Your Curriculum

Why It Matters:

The curriculum is the backbone of your homeschool. It should align with your values, educational goals, and your child's learning style.

What You Need:

  • A clear understanding of your state’s subject requirements

  • Budget for curriculum purchases

  • Free or paid curriculum options to review

What To Do:

  • Determine your child’s grade level in core subjects (math, reading, writing, etc.).

  • Review your state's subject requirements for each grade.

  • Browse curriculum options such as:

    • Sonlight, Abeka, BJU Press (Christian-based)

    • The Good and the Beautiful (open-and-go)

    • Easy Peasy All-in-One (free, Christian)

    • Time4Learning, Oak Meadow, Khan Academy (secular)

  • Don’t forget electives and enrichment subjects like music, art, and PE.

  • Look for curriculum reviews from other homeschoolers.

  • Start small—many families adjust curriculum as they learn what works.

🎒 Tip: You don’t need to buy an all-in-one boxed curriculum. You can mix and match based on your child’s needs.

Step 5: Create a Homeschool Schedule or Routine

Why It Matters:

A consistent routine provides structure, but homeschooling doesn't have to look like traditional school. Flexibility is one of homeschooling’s greatest strengths.

What You Need:

  • A calendar or planner

  • Your curriculum guides

  • Family priorities and lifestyle schedule

What To Do:

  • Decide how many days a week you want to homeschool (most do 4–5).

  • Map out a typical day: start time, subjects, breaks, outdoor time, reading, etc.

  • Keep it realistic—young children may only need 1–3 hours of structured learning per day.

  • Build in buffer time for meals, chores, and life!

⏰ Example:
9:00 AM – Morning Time (Bible, read-aloud)
9:30 AM – Math
10:15 AM – Language Arts
11:00 AM – Science or History
12:00 PM – Lunch & Play
1:00 PM – Creative Time / Projects
2:00 PM – Free Reading / Field Trips / Nature Walks

Step 6: Set Up Your Homeschool Space

Why It Matters:

A dedicated learning environment helps minimize distractions and keeps materials organized.

What You Need:

  • Table or desk

  • Bookshelves or bins for curriculum

  • School supplies (pencils, paper, scissors, etc.)

What To Do:

  • Designate a space in your home for homeschool, even if it’s just a table or corner.

  • Organize supplies so they're easy to access.

  • Display a calendar, schedule, and educational posters.

  • Include cozy reading nooks or bean bags for a relaxed atmosphere.

ðŸŠī Tip: Your whole house can be a classroom—kitchen for science experiments, backyard for nature study, living room for read-alouds.

Step 7: Find Your Homeschool Community

Why It Matters:

Homeschooling doesn’t mean going it alone. Support and social opportunities are essential for both kids and parents.

What You Need:

  • Facebook or local groups

  • Co-ops, meetups, field trips

  • Library events or extracurriculars

What To Do:

  • Search for local homeschool groups on social media.

  • Join a homeschool co-op for group classes, field trips, and enrichment.

  • Attend local homeschooling events or library programs.

  • Get involved in community sports, church groups, or music/art lessons.

🧑‍ðŸĪ‍🧑 Tip: Don’t be afraid to try different groups until you find one that fits your family’s values and needs.

Step 8: Keep Records and Evaluate Progress

Why It Matters:

Keeping good records helps you stay organized, meet legal requirements, and track your child’s growth.

What You Need:

  • A binder or digital folder

  • Attendance logs

  • Samples of work

  • Test scores or evaluations (if required)

What To Do:

  • Keep track of what subjects you cover each day.

  • Save samples of work (essays, worksheets, art).

  • Record field trips, extracurriculars, and reading logs.

  • If your state requires assessments, schedule standardized tests or evaluations accordingly.

📓 Tip: Some families use homeschool portfolio apps or create a simple Google Drive folder by subject.

Step 9: Embrace Flexibility and Adjust as Needed

Why It Matters:

Homeschooling is a journey. It’s okay to make changes if something isn’t working.

What You Need:

  • A growth mindset

  • Willingness to try new things

  • Regular time for reflection

What To Do:

  • Reevaluate every few months—ask what’s working and what’s not.

  • Be open to switching curriculum or methods.

  • Ask your child for input—what do they enjoy most?

  • Remember, every child learns at their own pace.

ðŸŒą Tip: Progress in homeschooling isn’t always linear—celebrate the small victories.

Final Thoughts: Your Homeschooling Journey Begins

Starting to homeschool may feel daunting at first, but you don’t have to figure it all out overnight. Take one step at a time. Give yourself grace. Your family’s homeschooling experience will be uniquely yours, shaped by love, learning, and growth.

The beauty of homeschooling is that it’s not about perfection—it’s about connection, freedom, and discovering the joy of learning together.

ðŸ“Ģ We Want to Hear from You!

Have you recently started homeschooling? Are you a seasoned homeschooler with tips to share?
Drop your thoughts, experiences, and questions in the comments below!
Your story could inspire another family just beginning their journey.

And don’t forget to check back with The Home School Wiz for more guides, curriculum reviews, and encouragement for your homeschooling life.

Happy Homeschooling!
— The Home School Wiz

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