Getting Started with Homeschooling: How to Start the Homeschool Year Right
Getting started with homeschooling can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, you can set yourself and your child(ren) up for a successful and fun experience! Homeschooling has gained immense popularity as an alternative education method, with more parents choosing to educate their children at home each year. According to Brighterly.com, as of June 2024, more than 3.7 million students are homeschooling across the US.
If you’re considering homeschooling, are about to start for the first time, or you’ve already been homeschooling but you haven’t felt successful, then this message about being prepared is for you! But being prepared doesn’t mean you have a rigid schedule and you ordered a school bell on Amazon. Being prepared for getting started with homeschooling looks very different than a teacher preparing a classroom, and that’s an important thing to note! Here’s how to get started with homeschooling and set yourselves up for confidence and success and not frustration and discouragement. We’ve got your back as you embark on this brand new year!
Why Are Parents Getting Started with Homeschooling?
Parents choose homeschooling for different reasons, and your reasons will be personal to you. The top 5 reasons reported for choosing to homeschool in recent surveys are:
Concern about safety, such as bullying, drugs, and school violence.
Dissatisfaction with school instruction might include parents who don’t like what schools are including in the curriculum or parents who think crucial things are left out of the traditional education system. IT can also include parents who disagree with the methods of instruction or disciplinary tactics used in schools.
A desire for specialized learning can mean a parent wants greater emphasis on topics outside of the traditional school realm, such as STEM, the arts, future-readiness, nature, life skills, or sports training.
A desire for non-traditional and customized learning methods typically references parents interest in providing one-on-one instruction to their kids, doing child-led learning, or accommodating different learning needs and styles that a traditional classroom cannot manage.
Children being homeschooled have a disability, neurodivergency, or other unique learning need. In fact, it’s estimated that anywhere from 15-50% of children being homeschooled have a unique need that causes a traditional classroom to not work for them!
Additionally, homeschooling provides flexibility, allowing families to customize their approach, schedule, learning and teaching style, pacing, and other activities. It also strengthens the parent-child bond by actively involving parents in their child’s education.
Know Your “Why” When Getting Started with Homeschooling
One of the most important first steps in getting started with homeschooling is to know your “why.” Why are you choosing to homeschool? Create a mission statement that clearly articulates your core reasons. Some families homeschool for more rigorous academics, some for a more relaxed childhood experience, and others to focus on life skills or specific values. Knowing your “why” will help you stay on track and prevent you from being swayed by what others are doing in their homeschools. Your mission statement is your guiding star. Need help figuring it out? Start with the What Type of Homeschooler quiz here!
Have a Loose Routine to Start
When getting started with homeschooling, I always advocate for routine over schedule. You don’t need timed blocks for every activity and you don’t need to be up, dressed, and sitting at desks by 8 a.m. Instead, decide on a routine that reflects the natural ebb and flow of your family life. A routine provides structure without the pressure of adhering to a strict timetable, allowing for flexibility as you find the best rhythm for your family. If you need help planning a schedule, the Schoolio recommended schedule can help you with something to at least get you started.
Choose Curriculum and Get Familiar with It
Selecting the right curriculum is a crucial step in getting started with homeschooling, but remember that you are never a slave to the program you chose! You can always switch or alter it later as you get more comfortable and discover what does and does not work for your family. If you need help choosing a curriculum, our How to Choose Curriculum guide can be really helpful to organize your thoughts and wishes before you start researching!
Once you’ve chosen your curriculum, take some time to get familiar with it. Some families prefer to loosely divide the curriculum content over the year so they have a rough idea of what they’ll be studying and when. Understanding the curriculum ahead of time will make you feel more confident and prepared as you begin.
Consider Future Readiness Learning When Getting Started with Homeschooling
As you plan your homeschooling year, consider incorporating future readiness learning into your curriculum. This could include topics such as financial literacy, social-emotional learning, digital literacy and safety, emerging technologies, and other life skills that are important to you and your family. These subjects help prepare your children for the realities of adulthood and provide them with essential tools for their future.
Gather Some Materials and Supplies
While getting started with homeschooling doesn’t require a massive stockpile of supplies, you’ll still need some basics like paper, pencils, and rulers. Check your curriculum for any science experiments, art projects, or other hands-on activities planned in the first few weeks and gather the necessary materials. Stocking up on these essentials beforehand ensures that you’re ready to dive into learning without unnecessary interruptions.
Plan Your First Day
Many homeschooling families like to make the first day of homeschool a little extra special. This could involve a surprise gift related to schooling, a photo shoot to commemorate the day, a baking project, or even an outing. Planning something fun for the first day can set a positive tone for the year and create lasting memories. Many homeschool groups and organizations have a “Not-Going-Back-to-School” party or get-together at the beginning of the year. These can be great ways to meet more homeschoolers, have some fun, and launch into your new year with happiness leading the way
The Golden Rule of Getting Started with Homeschooling: Stay Flexible!
One of the greatest advantages of homeschooling is the flexibility it offers. Be prepared to make changes as you go along. It’s okay if something you planned isn’t working or if you discover that an unexpected approach is highly effective. Commit to staying adaptable and open to change. This mindset will help you find your groove as you grow into your homeschooling routine.
Now That You Know How to Get Started with Homeschooling, Let’s Begin!
Getting started with homeschooling on the right foot is key to a successful and fulfilling educational experience. By knowing your “why,” establishing a flexible routine, choosing the right curriculum, and incorporating future readiness learning, you’ll set the stage for a comprehensive education tailored to your child’s needs. Gather your materials, plan a special first day, and embrace the flexibility that homeschooling offers. Remember, this journey is about finding what works best for you and your family—stay flexible, adapt as needed, and enjoy the adventure ahead!
And don’t forget, the team here at Schoolio are always ready to help new homeschoolers, whether or not you are a customer. If you ever need advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to us!