The homeschool journey is dynamic and exciting and we want to help you get started in the most graceful way possible. After talking to many fellow homeschool moms, we have compiled our top SIX things to do to feel confident as you start. Here are our top tips:

1. Know Your Why

Let’s be real, parenting is hard, but then adding homeschooling on top of it might feel a little daunting.

Before you dive headfirst into homeschooling, take some time to reflect on why you want to take this path. Are you looking to provide a more tailored education for your child? Do you want more flexibility in your schedule? Would you like to travel more as a family? Understanding your motivations will help you stay focused and committed when the going gets tough. Write it down so you can reference it later. As you continue the process, you can add to your list.

2. Research Your State’s Homeschooling Laws

Homeschooling regulations vary from state to state, so it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the laws in your area. Find out what you need to do to comply with any legal requirements, whether it’s submitting a notice of intent, keeping attendance records, or participating in standardized testing. (This is a great website to use to get started.) If this part of the process feels overwhelming, join a local Facebook group and ask for advice on this process from local homeschooling parents.

Additionally, research if your state gives any incentives for homeschooling families. For example, five states currently offer state tax credits on their income taxes. These states are Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Ohio, and Minnesota. These vary from state to state but may help with expenses such as tuition, book or curriculum rental fees, grade books, and even workbooks. Currently, 12 states also offer school vouchers that pay for homeschooling families. For example, Arizona students are eligible for approximately $7,000 annually to spend on homeschooling.

3. Choose a Homeschooling Approach

There are countless homeschooling methods, from traditional to eclectic to unschooling. Take some time to research different approaches and determine which one aligns best with your child’s learning style and your family’s values. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to homeschooling, so feel free to mix and match until you find what works for you. Check out our shop for lesson plans that will help round out your curriculum.

4. Create a Flexible Schedule

Concerned about the time commitment? Here’s the beauty of it: successful family projects thrive on quality, not just quantity. It’s about the value of the experience, not the clock.

Engaging in family projects transcends traditional learning methods. It fortifies familial bonds and seamlessly integrates work and learning, creating an environment that fosters a sense of accomplishment for every family member involved. See our list of 3 Tips for Balancing Homeschooling with Work and Family Life. It includes a great sample schedule you can use as a model for your days. We have found that the key is to have a flexible plan and maintain low expectations. Follow your child’s lead and see where they take you.

5. Gather Your Resources

A wealth of resources are available to homeschooling families. It is common for parents to want to buy a bunch of school supplies as they are getting started, but homeschooling doesn’t have to be expensive and you can buy as you go. (Check out our top tips for homeschooling on a budget.) Thanks to the internet, you can find anything from curriculum providers to online learning platforms to local homeschooling groups; there’s no shortage of support and inspiration to help you. Don’t be afraid to reach out to other homeschooling parents for recommendations and advice. Here are some great places to start:

1. Search for specific lesson plans and bundles on our Homeschool Market shop.
2. Search for online learning resources such as Khan Academy, Scholastic Learn at Home, Xtra Math, etc. The options are limitless!
3. Look for local or virtual homeschooling groups and co-ops. Building a community will help you have a constant connection to great resources.

6. Take Care of Yourself

Last but certainly not least, don’t forget to take care of yourself along the homeschooling journey. Balancing the demands of homeschooling with the rest of your life can be challenging, so be sure to carve out time for self-care, whether it’s through exercise, hobbies, or simply taking a moment to breathe and recharge. One of the reasons you probably considered homeschooling was to allow your child(ren) to pursue unique interests and hobbies. You can model that for them by pursuing your own.

Conclusion

These tips offer practical ways to balance homeschooling, work, and family life. Embrace innovation, personalize learning, and make it a collaborative effort. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Find what works for your unique family rhythm. Let us know in the comments what you’ve found to work well for you and your child.