{"id":2134,"date":"2022-04-25T14:34:59","date_gmt":"2022-04-25T14:34:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/miacademy-blog-3f61b5.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/?page_id=2134"},"modified":"2025-08-27T21:45:51","modified_gmt":"2025-08-27T21:45:51","slug":"how-to-homeschool","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/miacademy.co\/homeschool-curriculum\/how-to-homeschool\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Homeschool: A Guide to Getting Started"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

More families than ever before are making the switch to homeschooling. <\/strong>The freedom and flexibility it provides makes homeschooling the perfect way to learn for many kids. <\/strong>In this guide, we’ll answer your questions about how to homeschool and help you get started.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Different\u00a0states\u00a0have different legal requirements<\/a> for homeschooling, and exploring these should be your first step in making the transition. Once you\u2019ve got the legalities down, you can move onto the fun part \u2013 creating the best homeschool life for your family!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Decide why you’re homeschooling. <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Before you begin, it’s important to understand why you want to\u00a0start homeschooling.<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you looking for more freedom over your child\u2019s education? Are you seeking out a way for your child to have the flexibility to learn at their own pace? Does your student need extra accommodations for special needs<\/a>?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

By asking yourself why<\/em> you\u2019d like to make the switch, you can begin to set goals for your family and narrow down your options. This decision will factor into all of the choices you make in your journey, so take some time to really think about what made you interested in homeschooling.<\/p>\n\n\n

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2. Choose a homeschool curriculum and approach. <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s not about finding the \u201cbest overall\u201d homeschool curriculum. <\/strong>Instead, focus on finding the curriculum that best meets you and your learner\u2019s needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Your child might flourish using textbooks,\u00a0online\u00a0resources, a combination of the two, or neither! Many structured, all-in-one programs offer a free or low-cost trial, and there are many supplemental resources available online.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There are also different approaches you can take to homeschooling, like Classical, Montessori, Charlotte Mason, and more. All of the curriculum options and\u00a0homeschool styles<\/a>\u00a0may be overwhelming at first, but by having so many choices, families are able to find what best works for them!\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Create a homeschool schedule and space.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Homeschooling gives you plenty of freedom in schedule and space. However, many find that keeping to a schedule is helpful, especially at the beginning.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Creating a routine<\/a> or homeschool schedule can help you and your student get into the groove of homeschool life. You can split up the school week and cover different subjects on different days, start as late or early as you\u2019d like, and take as many breaks as you and your child need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Setting up a designated learning space is key. Having a space where your child is comfortable, but knows it\u2019s time to get to work will help keep you establish and stick to a routine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Keep track of progress and records.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How you\u2019ll record your child\u2019s progress will depend on both your local homeschooling laws and your own preferences. Your state’s website will provide all of the information you\u2019ll need as to what is required in your state or region. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

There are many online and physical tools to assist you with recording your child\u2019s learning.\u00a0These resources can track attendance, create transcripts and report cards, and even assist with lesson plans. You can also go old-school with a three-ring binder or a planner \u2013 as with so many aspects of homeschooling, you have the freedom to choose what works best for you.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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4. Get involved in the homeschooling community.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

One issue many parents worry about when it comes to homeschooling is socialization. Homeschooling co-ops and groups help children socialize through field trips, talent shows, parent meetings, and even formal dances.\u00a0<\/strong>Connecting your student with other children is important for their development, but as a homeschooling parent, it\u2019s also helpful to communicate with other like-minded adults who understand what learning at home is really like.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Homeschool families can also socialize through programs like the Scouts, join local intramural teams, and take lessons in activities like dance, art, or music to socialize. Some public schools will even allow homeschoolers in their district to join school sports teams and clubs. Plus, high school students can not only socialize with their peers, but also earn college credit through\u00a0dual-enrollment programs<\/a>. There are so many avenues through which homeschoolers can mingle with their peers beyond being in the same classroom every day.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To find out more about groups and events near you, here are a few resources:<\/p>\n\n\n\n