How to *Really* Start Homeschooling in 2021

So, you’ve decided to homeschool and you want to know how to start homeschooling in 2021. Great decision, and great question! I’m so glad you asked, because there may be some steps you are forgetting.

Download your free Getting Started Cheatsheet here.

Creating an awesome homeschool life takes intention and practice, and getting set up is simple if you know where to start. Here’s how to start homeschooling in 2021:

1. Get Your Family On Board

Even if you will be the only teacher in your family, it is important for all of the adults to be on the same page. If your partner isn’t planning to be involved in teaching that is OK. But if your partner actively objects to home learning you will have problems. In this case you have a lot of negotiation ahead of you, and maybe you will need to seek an alternative school arrangement you can agree on.

2. Know the Law

Will your family enroll in a homeschool charter or will you form your own private school? What are the laws in your state and county? Will you need to record grades or administer tests? It all depends on where you live. You can find your state’s regulations at HSDLA.org. I’ve written more on this important subject here.

3. Know Your Why

Spend some time thinking about why you want to homeschool and what you want it to be like. Then use this information to write out your Mission and Vision statements. (Click the links for your free printable worksheets.)

4. On-the-job Training

Study up on learning styles, curriculum options, and homeschooling methods. Head to your library or use the Libby app to search books about homeschooling. Read reviews, seek out blogs, and watch curricula flips-through on Youtube. You’re a new teacher in training, but don’t let info overload daunt you. Keep learning as you would with any other job. With more knowledge comes better confidence.

5. Find Your People

Having friends beside you as you go along your journey will be the difference between a lonely homeschool and a happy homeschool. Join your local homeschool organization. Search local meetups. Find a co-op. Start a co-op. Say hi to the mom at the park. She wants to meet you, too.

6. Get Started!

homeschooling is a marathon, not a sprint. You’ll try some things and abandon them soon after. Other things will grow on you and become beloved tools in your home ed toolbox. Find what works and ditch the rest. No one knows your family like you do. That’s your homeschool mama superpower.

Download your free Getting Started Cheat Sheet to get your homeschool started!