Getting started with homeschooling can be an exciting, yet challenging journey for a family. Here are some steps and considerations to help you get started:
Homeschooling is legal and increasingly common. As of 2021–2022, around 3.1 million students in the United States were homeschooled, which is about 6 percent of the school-age population — up from 3.3 percent in 2016, according to Bright Futures NY.
Homeschooling laws vary by state and municipality. Some states require you to notify the local school district, while others have specific curriculum standards or testing requirements.
You won't have to plan and write lessons by yourself. Many secular and religious curricula are available. You can select a curriculum that fits your child's learning style and your teaching style. There are many resources available, including online programs, textbooks, and community resources.
The key to successful homeschooling is to create and follow a schedule. You can tailor the schedule to fit your family's needs and your child's peak learning times.
Designate a specific area in your home for homeschooling. This space should be free from distractions and equipped with necessary supplies and resources.
You'll want to incorporate activities and sports into your homeschool plan. The best way to do this is to join homeschool groups, which host many activities, and community sports leagues.
Homeschooling does demand time. For elementary school, plan on up to three hours a day. For middle school, up to four hours. For high school, up to five hours.