Getting Started with Homeschooling

You're thinking about homeschooling. Maybe you're frustrated with your local school. Maybe your kid has unique needs. Maybe you just want more control over what and how your child learns. Whatever the reason — you're in the right place.

I homeschooled my kids for three years. Here's what I wish someone had told me on day one.

1. Check Your State's Laws

Every state has different homeschool laws. Some states (like Texas) are extremely relaxed — you basically just stop sending your kid to school. Others (like New York) require formal notification, curriculum plans, quarterly reports, and annual assessments.

Before you do anything else, look up your state's requirements at HSLDA's state law page. This is non-negotiable. Get the legal stuff right from day one.

2. Don't Buy Everything at Once

The #1 mistake new homeschool parents make: spending $2,000 on curriculum before they know what works. Start with one or two subjects. Try things out. Your kid's learning style will become obvious within a few weeks, and then you can make informed purchases.

Check out our curriculum choosing guide for a framework to make smart picks.

3. Pick a Structure (or Don't)

Homeschooling falls on a spectrum from highly structured (textbooks, schedules, grades) to completely unstructured (unschooling). Most families land somewhere in the middle. Here's a quick breakdown:

• Traditional/Classical — Structured curriculum, textbooks, tests. Closest to "school at home."
• Charlotte Mason — Living books, nature study, narration. Gentle but rigorous.
• Unit Studies — All subjects revolve around a central theme. Great for younger kids.
• Unschooling — Child-led learning. No formal curriculum. Not for everyone.
• Eclectic — Mix and match from different approaches. What most families end up doing.

4. You Don't Need to Replicate School

This was the hardest lesson for me. You don't need six hours of desk work. You don't need bells and periods. A focused homeschool day for elementary kids is often 2–3 hours. For high schoolers, maybe 4–5. The rest is living, playing, and exploring — which is also learning.

5. Find Your People

Homeschooling can be isolating — for you and your kids. Find a local co-op, homeschool group, or even just one other homeschool family. Your kids need social interaction, and you need adults who understand why you're doing this.

Ready to Pick a Curriculum?

Browse our curriculum reviews or read the how to choose a curriculum guide.

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