Ready to Leave Public School? Here’s What to Do Next

Making the decision to homeschool is a big step, and while it’s exciting, it can also feel overwhelming. You’re not alone. Thousands of families make this choice every year, seeking a more personalized and flexible education for their children.

After my wife and I decided to transition our daughters to homeschooling a few years ago, we’ve learned a thing or two along the way. If you’re wondering where to begin, this guide will help you navigate the initial steps and feel confident as you start this journey.

1. Start with Your State’s Homeschooling Rules

Every state has different rules and regulations for homeschooling, so your first step is to understand what’s required in your area.

• Visit your state’s Department of Education website to review homeschool law. The Homeschool Legal Defense Association is a homeschool advocacy organization and also an excellent place to start.

• Check if you need to submit a notice of intent to homeschool, maintain records, or administer standardized tests.

• Consider joining local homeschool groups for insights on how to navigate these requirements. There are a plethora of homeschool Facebook groups that may be a good starting point, particularly ones specific to your state or city.

2. Choose a Homeschool Program That Fits Your Family

Choosing the right homeschool program is one of the most important steps in your journey. With so many options available, it’s essential to find one that fits your child’s needs, your teaching style, your family situation, and your goals.

Traditional programs offer structured lessons and schedules, mimicking traditional school setups. Online programs provide flexibility with self-paced modules and interactive tools, which can be ideal for tech-savvy learners.

There are also various settings in which to participate in homeschooling. While you can choose to do so independently, getting involved with other families is possible, too. Pod schools combine small-group learning with socialization, often led by a parent or tutor, while charter schools offer publicly funded resources and curriculum guidance for homeschooling families.

Homeschool co-ops are another great option, providing larger group learning opportunities and shared resources, allowing parents to play a more active role in the teaching. If you’re in Texas, I’d recommend checking out One Day Academy - a flexible homeschool resource where parents can mix one day of in-person classes with self-directed and parent-assisted teaching.

When selecting a program, consider your child’s learning style and your family’s daily routine. Take the time to research and compare programs, read reviews, and gather insights from other families. Many programs offer sample lessons or trial periods, making it easier to find the right fit. Exploring these options thoughtfully will set you and your child up for success.

If faith-based teachings are important, you can explore options specifically designed for this focus or integrate faith-based curricula into your child’s personalized learning plan.

3. Design a Schedule That Works for You

One of the best parts of homeschooling is the flexibility, but having a routine is still important.

Start by considering:

Your Child’s Learning Style: Every child learns differently, whether it’s through visuals like charts and flashcards, listening to audiobooks and discussions, or hands-on activities like experiments and building projects. Many kids thrive with a mix of these approaches, so the key is to explore what works best and keep it flexible.

Your Own Schedule: Homeschooling parents juggle many roles. Plan teaching blocks around your work, errands, or other responsibilities. A well-organized schedule ensures you meet everyone’s needs without burning out.

Breaks and Play: Learning isn’t limited to books. Include time for outdoor play, hands-on projects, and creative activities like music or art. These breaks help kids recharge and often lead to deeper learning moments.

Your schedule doesn’t need to mirror a traditional school day. The focus should be on “education,” not “schooling.” Experiment to find what works best for your situation.

4. Create a Learning Space That Inspires

Your home doesn’t need to look like a classroom, but having a dedicated learning space can help kids focus. Set up a quiet area with a desk or table for schoolwork. Stock up on basic supplies like pencils, notebooks, and art materials. Include tools like whiteboards, bookshelves, or digital devices to support learning.

Make the space functional and inviting, as kids learn best in a comfortable and engaged environment.

5. Find Your Homeschooling Community

Homeschooling doesn’t mean going it alone. Joining a homeschool community can provide your kids with support, inspiration, and social opportunities. Being a part of a community has certainly made homeschooling more enjoyable for my family and introduced my children to fun new activities like archery.

You can look online and in Facebook groups or check with local churches to find potential homeschool groups. Once you’ve found a group, consider participating in activities like park days, field trips, or group classes to build relationships and enrich the experience for your kids.

6. Stay Open to Growth and Change

Homeschooling is a learning process for both you and your child. What works in the beginning might need to evolve as you go. Don’t stress about finding the “perfect” program right away. It’s okay to adjust and adapt. And remember to be patient with yourself as you settle into this new routine.

Remember, homeschooling is about creating a supportive, customized, and flexible education that works for your family, not about replicating a public school model.

7. Use Tools and Support to Simplify the Journey

There’s no need to reinvent the wheel. Tools like our Curriculum Matcher will take the guesswork out of finding the right curriculum for your child, saving you time and effort. Pairing these tools with direct connections to instructors for specialized subjects like Latin, ASL, or piano can bring your kids added expertise and enrichment.

Homeschool communities and co-ops also offer a wealth of support, shared experiences, and collaboration opportunities. The journey will become smoother and more rewarding with the right resources and connections.

This is a Journey Worth Taking

This experience is a journey, not a destination. Take it one step at a time, and remember, you’re not alone. There is a wealth of resources, communities, and tools available to help you every step of the way.

Starting your homeschooling journey may feel like a leap into the unknown, but with the right preparation and resources, it can become one of the most rewarding decisions you’ll ever make.

One of my daughters is now preparing for college, a milestone that has been both challenging and rewarding. Thanks to her incredible determination and my wife’s guidance through homeschooling, she’s not only ready for this next chapter but also thriving as she navigates the college application process. Watching her hard work pay off as acceptance letters arrive has been an exciting and proud moment for our family.

Stay tuned for our next blog, where we share practical tips on preparing for college and helping kids succeed as they take this big step.