7 Easy Steps to Start Homeschooling in New York

Deciding to homeschool your child is a significant step that comes with both excitement and uncertainty. You might be asking yourself, "How do I ensure my child receives a quality education?" or "What legal requirements do I need to follow?" These are valid concerns, especially since homeschooling regulations vary across the United States. 

While each state has its own rules, there are common steps and best practices that can help you manage the process smoothly.

If you are thinking of homeschooling in New York, understanding NYS homeschooling regulations is the first step. This guide breaks down everything from submitting a Notice of Intent (NOI) to logging instructional hours and submitting annual assessments.

7 Key Steps to Start Homeschooling

Getting started with homeschooling in the United States involves several key steps that ensure your child’s education meets both your family’s goals and your state’s legal requirements. Each step builds on the last, creating a strong foundation for your homeschooling journey. Below, you will find a detailed explanation of each one, with guidance that applies broadly across the country.

Step 1: Submit a Notice of Intent

In New York, homeschooling officially begins by submitting a Notice of Intent (NOI) to your local school district. If you’re starting in July, it’s due by July 1. For mid-year transitions, submit it within 14 days of starting. The notice should include basic information: your child’s name, age, and address, as well as your name and contact details. Deliver it to your local school superintendent’s office, either by mail or in person.

Alongside visiting the NYSED site, platforms like TSHA make the process even easier by offering parent-ready compliance checklists and direct support. Look for information on notification requirements, recordkeeping, and assessment obligations. 

Source: TSHA

This step is essential because it ensures you are compliant with local laws from the outset. Think of it as laying the groundwork for a smooth homeschooling experience.

Step 2: Create an Individualized Home Instruction Plan (IHIP)

After filing your Notice of Intent, you will need to create an Individualized Home Instruction

Plan (IHIP). This plan serves as your blueprint for the school year, detailing how you will meet New York’s educational requirements.

Your IHIP must include several key elements. Start with your child’s name, age, and grade level. Then, list the subjects you plan to teach, such as math, science, and history. Include the materials or curriculum you will use and a schedule of instructional hours. For younger students in grades 1 through 6, ensure subjects like arithmetic, reading, and U.S. history are covered. You must submit this plan to your school district within four weeks of filing your Notice of Intent.

The IHIP is more than just paperwork. It helps you stay organized and shows the district that you are committed to providing a robust education. 

For a flexible, ready-made option, The School House Anywhere (TSHA) offers the American Emergent Curriculum (AEC) for Pre-K through 6th grade for homeschooling and microschools. It’s designed to be adaptable, aligning with tough U.S. standards while letting you tweak it for your child. With study materials, printables, and 24/7 support, TSHA makes planning easier for busy parents.

Step 3: Understand Compulsory Education Laws

Homeschooling in New York operates under the state’s compulsory education laws, which mandate education for all children. As a homeschooling parent, you are responsible for ensuring your child meets these requirements.

In New York, education is compulsory for children ages 6 to 16. As a homeschooling parent, you are legally responsible for providing full-time instruction during these years. This means following the regulations outlined in this guide, from filing paperwork to meeting instructional hour requirements. If you do not comply, you could face truancy issues, so staying informed is key.

For the most current information, visit the New York State Education Department website. These legal obligations might sound intimidating, but they are manageable when you break them down step by step.

Step 4: Plan Your Instructional Time and Curriculum

New York sets specific guidelines for how much time you must spend homeschooling and what subjects you need to cover. These requirements ensure your child receives a comprehensive education.

For instructional hours, students in grades 1 through 6 need 900 hours per year, while those in grades 7 through 12 require 990 hours. You can spread these hours across the year; however, it works best for your family. Some parents prefer a traditional Monday-to-Friday schedule, while others spread learning throughout the week, including weekends.

Your curriculum must include core subjects like arithmetic, reading, spelling, writing, English, geography, U.S. history, science, health, music, visual arts, and physical education. For older students in grades 7 through 12, add topics like civics, hygiene, and New York State history. You have flexibility in how you teach these subjects, which is one of homeschooling’s biggest advantages. 

Source: TSHA American Emergent Curriculum

Consider using The School House Anywhere’s American Emergent Curriculum (AEC), which aligns with NYS standards while letting you tailor lessons to your child’s interests.

Also read: Why Microschools Are the Next Big Education Trend?

Step 5: Assess Your Teaching Resources and Support

You might be wondering, "Do I need a teaching degree to do this?" The answer is no. New York does not require homeschooling parents to have formal qualifications, which opens the door for anyone willing to take on the role.

What you do need is a commitment to your child’s education. You do not have to be an expert in every subject. Instead, lean on resources to fill in the gaps. Educational films, online platforms, and printable worksheets can make lessons engaging and effective. The School House Anywhere offers a wealth of tools to support you, from lesson plans to interactive activities. You might also consider attending webinars or workshops to build your confidence and skills.

Your willingness to learn alongside your child is what matters most. With the right resources, you can deliver a quality education. Now that you are equipped to teach, you will need to keep track of your efforts.

Step 6: Establish a Recordkeeping System

Accurate recordkeeping is a cornerstone of homeschooling in New York. It helps you monitor progress and proves to the state that you are meeting educational standards.

You must keep records of attendance, showing the days and hours your child spends learning. You also need to submit quarterly progress reports to your school district, outlining what your child has accomplished in each subject. At the end of the year, provide an annual assessment. This can be a standardized test or a written narrative from a qualified evaluator.

Staying organized is easier with tools like The School House Anywhere's Transparent Classroom. This platform lets you log attendance, track progress, and generate reports efficiently. Good recordkeeping not only keeps you compliant but also gives you a sense of accomplishment as you see your child grow.

Step 7: Build Your Homeschool Community

Homeschooling can sometimes feel isolating, but it does not have to be. Joining a homeschooling community offers valuable support, resources, and social opportunities for both you and your child.

A community can provide practical benefits, such as shared lesson plans, group activities, or field trips. It also gives your child a chance to make friends and develop social skills. For you, it is a place to exchange ideas and find encouragement from parents who understand your journey. You might join a local co-op, participate in online forums, or connect through platforms like The School House Anywhere.

To find a group, search social media, visit your local library, or check with statewide homeschooling organizations. Building these connections can make homeschooling more enjoyable and sustainable for your family.

Conclusion

Starting homeschooling in the United States might seem like a big undertaking, but with these seven steps, you have a clear path to success. From researching your state’s laws to building a supportive community, you are now equipped to provide your child with a personalized, high-quality education. Each step of the process helps you feel more confident and ensures you are meeting both legal requirements and your family’s needs.

The School House Anywhere (TSHA) offers everything you need to start strong. Our American Emergent Curriculum (AEC) for Pre-K to 6th grade blends science-backed learning with the best of traditional American education, making lessons both effective and enjoyable. You’ll get access to ready-to-use study materials, custom printable worksheets, educational films, and our Transparent Classroom tool for seamless progress tracking. You’ll gain access to:

• Ready-to-use study units and printable worksheets

• High-quality educational films that bring lessons to life

• The Transparent Classroom tool for simple recordkeeping and progress tracking

• Weekly educator gatherings and 24/7 live support to answer questions anytime

Register as a parent and discover how we can support your family’s homeschooling adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

You probably have some questions about homeschooling in the United States. Here are answers to some of the most common ones.

Q1: Do I need to be a certified teacher to homeschool my child in New York?

A1: No, you don’t need to be a certified teacher in New York to homeschool your child. However, you must have at least a high school diploma or its equivalent (like a GED). You’ll also need to comply with detailed documentation requirements, including annual instruction plans, quarterly reports, and yearly assessments.

Q2: How do I choose the right curriculum in New York?

A2: New York requires homeschoolers to cover specific subjects at each grade level, so your curriculum must meet those standards. You'll submit an Individualized Home Instruction Plan (IHIP) each year listing the curriculum and materials you’ll use. You can choose your own resources as long as they align with the state’s required subjects and instructional hours.

Q3: What if I miss a reporting deadline in New York?

A3: New York has some of the strictest homeschooling regulations in the country. Missing a deadline, such as for your Notice of Intent, IHIP, quarterly reports, or annual assessment, can result in your home instruction program being found noncompliant. This could trigger a review or possible legal action, including your child being classified as truant. Sticking to the schedule provided by your local school district is important.

Q4: Can I combine homeschooling with public school activities in New York?

A4: Participation in public school activities like sports, clubs, or specific classes is not guaranteed in New York. State law leaves this up to each local school district, and many districts choose not to allow homeschoolers to join. However, you can always contact your local superintendent about opportunities or partnerships.