How To Start Homeschooling: A Beginner’s Guide

Considering homeschooling and wondering where to start? Of course you are! That’s why you are reading this blog 🙂 Whether you’re bubbling with excitement or feeling a bit (or a lot) overwhelmed, there’s a space for you here. Maybe you’ve been dreaming about homeschooling your kids for years, or maybe you’re frustrated with your current educational options, or perhaps life has unexpectedly nudged you in this direction, whatever the reason- I am glad you are here and I hope I can help you to get started on this amazing journey.

Why Homeschooling?

Homeschooling is a deeply personal family decision, one that comes with both excitement and challenges. It’s about taking the executive director role of your child’s education and daily rhythm, and tailoring it to their unique needs, strengths, and interests. But where do you begin? What steps should you take first? Let’s get into that.

Step 1: Know Your “Why”

Before diving into the logistics, take a moment to reflect on why you want to homeschool. What’s your answer when someone asks you, “Why are you homeschooling?” People are curious, and are going to want to know and understand why you are making this choice. While homeschooling is growing rapidly throughout the country, it is still considered somewhat rogue, and inquiring minds want to know! Your reasons will be the foundation of your journey. Are you looking for more flexibility? Do you want to provide a more tailored educational experience? Understanding your motivation will guide your decisions and keep you grounded during the challenging moments. Like many things worth doing, homeschooling is not always “easy,” but it is “worth it.”

Step 2: Understand the Legal Requirements

Homeschooling is legal in the United States in all 50 states, but every state has a different set of rules and regulations regarding the process. It is important to research and understand your state’s regulations, and make sure you are following protocols.

The Homeschool Legal Defense Association is an amazing organization that provides legal support and advice to homeschooling families, for a minimal yearly subscription fee. Check out their website to research all the different ways to legally homeschool in your state! Visit HSLDA website.

Step 3: Choose a Homeschooling Method

Homeschooling is not one-size-fits-all, and that is one of the things that makes it so beautiful! There are several approaches you can take, depending on your child’s learning style and your educational philosophy:

• Classical Education: Focuses on developing critical thinking through the trivium (grammar, logic, and rhetoric).
• Charlotte Mason: Emphasizes literature, nature studies, habit training, and narration.
• Montessori: Child-centered, focusing on hands-on, self-directed learning.
• Unit Studies: Integrates multiple subjects into a single theme or topic.
• Unschooling: Learner-led education where the child’s interests drive the curriculum.

Each method is unique and may have elements that you want to incorporate into your family’s education plan.

Step 4: Select Curriculum and Resources

Once you’ve chosen a method, the next step is selecting a curriculum or educational resources. You can purchase a complete curriculum that aligns with your chosen approach or mix and match resources from different providers. There are plenty of options available, from traditional textbooks to online courses, and even free resources like Ambleside Online, Khan Academy or local libraries. Don’t worry about finding the perfect curriculum right away—homeschooling allows for flexibility, and you can adjust as you go.

Step 5: Create a Learning Space and Routine

While some families do have a dedicated bonus or extra room in their home to set up their homeschool, it is definitely not necessary because learning can and does happen everywhere- at the kitchen table, on the couch, lounging on the patio, under a tree, or in a tree!

It is helpful to have a few dedicated spots that have your books and supplies organized, where it is easy to find things and then pack them up and put them away at the end of the day.

In addition to organizing your books and supplies, it’s also important to organize your day. I like to use rhythms over time schedules, but the great thing is you can create a routine that works for your family. Homeschooling allows you to be flexible, so don’t feel pressured to replicate a traditional school day. Find a rhythm that balances education with family life, and be open to adjusting it as you find what works best for your child.

Step 6: Join a Homeschool Community

Homeschooling doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. Connecting with other homeschool families—whether through local co-ops, support groups, or online communities—can provide you with valuable support, encouragement, and resources. It’s also a great way for your children to socialize and build friendships with other homeschoolers.

Final Thoughts

I hope you have found this post helpful! If you are considering starting homeschool for the first time, I want to encourage you – there is no formula, or specific type of personality needed to be a homeschool parent. We are all unique in our strengths and abilities, and we will all make the best decisions we can for the health of our family. 

I have been homeschooling for 14 years. There have been years I felt like I was doing a great job, and other years that were hard, and I questioned if I was doing the right thing.

However, as a mother, you are already a teacher, and you have already been the director of all education in your home beginning from the time of child’s birth. Adding in some subjects is just an extension of who you are and what you already do.

P.S.

I just want to tell you- You CAN do this. If you are feeling a tug to begin- listen to that, and get started (Download my Homeschool Starter Guide!)