There’s so much to think about when you start the homeschooling journey. It is exciting and overwhelming all at the same time. And honestly, after 17+ years of homeschooling, that feeling never goes away. Still, it is possible to create a rich learning environment right at home. Here’s a simple, five-step guide to help you get you started thinking and planning.

1. Understand Your State’s Homeschooling Laws

Important: Every state has different requirements for homeschooling, from standardized testing to attendance records. Check out the Homeschool Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) website to understand the regulations in your area. Some states have more relaxed laws than others. Knowing the legal basics will help you feel more confident and organized as you start.

2. Choose a Homeschool Style That Fits Your Family

When it comes to homeschooling, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. There are all-in-one curriculums where you order a box kit from a particular company. These kits usually come with everything you need for the year. Some families prefer structured curriculums, while others lean towards more flexible, child-led learning. At our house, we tend to pick and choose from different curriculum providers. I try to choose what I think will work best for my kids.

Also, there are many popular homeschooling methods like Classical, Charlotte Mason, Unschooling, and Unit Studies. You do not have to know about all of these or even understand them to homeschool. Research as you have time, and learn as you go!

3. Select or Create Your Curriculum

Once you have a style in mind, it’s time to select (or create) your curriculum. When you are researching curriculum, I suggest signing up for their magazine. Most of the time, these magazines give an overview of each subject, a scope and sequence for K-12th grade, and a complete list of all subjects and resources. They send a new, updated magazine about once a year. I’m always excited to get these in the mail.

When you are looking at curriculum, here are some things to check out:

• Worldview: there is no neutral curriculum. Make sure the curriculum teaches your religious (or non-religious) values. I like to also check their website and see what their more detailed beliefs are and their denominational affiliation.
• Format: video, textbook/worksheet, online, unit studies, and there’s many more. Also, I look at the length of each lesson. I want to make sure it will match up with my kids’ attention span and learning styles.
• Teaching style: some curriculum is more teacher based, meaning you, the parent, will be teaching the lesson from beginning to end. Some curriculum is more student-led where the student can do the lesson with minimal help from the parent.
• Academics: check the difficulty level. Not all “4th grade math” curriculums are created equal. See if the company has placement tests for your child to do. This can help you decide which grade is best. Remember, grade level is only a number!
• Resources: are there resources to help differentiate their learning? This is not always necessary, but having optional activities like book lists, video links, experiments, etc. can really add to the educational process.

4. Set Up a Daily or Weekly Routine

One of the best things about homeschooling is the freedom to customize your schedule. This is great when you have doctor appointments, sickness in the family, or other life events that happen. However, it is important to have some consistency and routine or you can get behind fast. Some families follow traditional school hours, while others may focus on just a few hours a day or even a four-day school week. We sometimes do a 6-week schedule, which allows for more frequent breaks, but a longer school year. Whatever you decide, start with a routine that works for you and adjust as you go. Consistency makes it easier for everyone to stay on track. Read more about how to create a schedule here.

5. Create a Dedicated Learning Space

While you don’t need a full classroom setup, a dedicated space for schoolwork can help your child focus. It could be a simple table, a corner of the living room, or even the kitchen counter. Yes, you can do school anywhere. In the park, on the porch, the beach, Grandma’s house, etc. Still, you do need a dedicated place to keep books and supplies. Some children may require a more consistent workspace to stay focused. Make sure the space is organized, comfortable, and free from distractions.

Homeschooling is a journey filled with learning opportunities for both you and your child. Remember, it’s okay to adjust and make changes as you go. The most important thing is that your child is engaged, happy, and growing. Happy homeschooling!