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

To start homeschooling, you need to do four things: learn your state's legal requirements, formally withdraw your child if they're enrolled in school, choose a curriculum approach, and set up a simple daily routine. Most families can complete all four in about a week. Here's the step-by-step checklist.

You've made the decision — or you're seriously considering it — and now you're wondering: what do I actually do first? Starting to homeschool can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. This checklist breaks your first week into manageable, actionable steps so you can move forward with confidence.

Step 1: Learn Your State's Homeschool Laws

Every state has different requirements for homeschooling. Some states require you to notify your school district, while others are completely hands-off. Before you do anything else, research your state's specific requirements. Key things to look for:

• Notification requirements — do you need to inform your school district?
• Assessment or testing requirements — annual testing, portfolio review, or nothing at all?
• Record-keeping expectations — attendance logs, curriculum records, grades?
• Age requirements — when does compulsory education start in your state?

Step 2: Withdraw Your Child (If Currently Enrolled)

If your child is currently in public or private school, you'll likely need to formally withdraw them. This usually involves writing a letter to the school principal or district office. Keep a copy for your records. In most states, this is a simple one-page letter stating your intent to homeschool.

Step 3: Choose Your Homeschool Style

You don't need to have your entire curriculum figured out on day one. But it helps to have a general direction. The most popular approaches include:

• Classical education — structured, literature-heavy, trivium-based
• Charlotte Mason — nature study, living books, short lessons
• Montessori — child-led, hands-on, multi-age
• Unschooling — interest-led, no formal curriculum
• Eclectic — mix and match from multiple approaches

Don't worry about picking the "right" one. Most homeschool families end up evolving their approach over time. If you're not sure where you land, our homeschool style quiz can point you in a direction. Start with what resonates and adjust as you learn what works for your family.

Step 4: Set Up Your Learning Space

You don't need a dedicated classroom. A kitchen table, a corner of the living room, or even the backyard works perfectly. What matters is having a consistent, distraction-reduced space where your child knows "this is where we learn." Consider:

• A bookshelf or bin for curriculum materials and supplies
• Good lighting and a comfortable seating area
• A simple daily schedule posted where everyone can see it
• Storage for art supplies, manipulatives, and notebooks

Step 5: Order Your First Curriculum or Resources

Start simple. You don't need to buy everything at once. For your first week, focus on the basics: a math program, a reading/phonics program (for younger kids), and something for science or social studies. Many families start with free resources and library books while they figure out what works — our free starter guide is a good place to begin.

Step 6: Connect with Your Local Homeschool Community

One of the best things you can do early on is find other homeschool families near you. Look for local co-ops, Facebook groups, or meetup groups. These communities provide support, socialization for your kids, and a wealth of experience to draw from. You don't have to do this alone.

Step 7: Take a Deep Breath and Start

Here's the truth no one tells you: your first week won't be perfect, and that's completely okay. You'll figure things out as you go. The most important step is simply starting. You already know your child better than anyone — trust that instinct.

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