How To Do Homeschool: 9 Simple Steps To Get Started

Are you thinking about homeschooling but feel like there are too many decisions and not enough clarity? Concerns like “What if I mess this up?” or “How do I even plan a full year at home?” often show up before you even take the first step. Many parents step into homeschooling with excitement, but also a little fear of the unknown.

Fortunately, you don’t need to have everything figured out on day one. Homeschooling becomes much easier when you understand the basics and build your plan one piece at a time. With the right guidance, you can create a steady rhythm that supports your child and fits your daily life.

In this blog, we’ll break down how to do homeschool in a practical way so you know exactly what to focus on. From legal basics to teaching strategies and step-by-step guidance, you’ll gain a clear path to start with confidence. Let’s make homeschooling feel doable, step by step.

In A Nutshell:

• Homeschooling lets you customize your child’s education with flexible schedules and personalized learning approaches.

• States have different homeschooling requirements, so understanding your local laws is the first step.

• Choosing goals, methods, and curriculum early helps you build a focused and manageable learning plan.

• Follow simple steps to set goals, plan lessons, and build a steady homeschool structure.

• Use planning strategies to stay organized, reduce stress, and create a smooth year-round routine.

What Do You Need To Start Homeschooling Your Child?

Before you get into planning lessons, know what you actually need to begin. And the good news is that the list is much simpler than most parents assume.

Homeschooling starts with a simple truth: you don’t need a teaching degree or a perfect setup. What matters most is your commitment to guiding your child at a pace that fits your family. Each state has its own rules, but most only require basic documentation, and those steps quickly become part of your routine.

Basic Starting Needs

• Time set aside for consistent learning

• A simple record-keeping system that matches your state rules

• A safe and calm space for reading, writing, and hands-on work

• A flexible mindset that allows trial, error, and discovery

Optional but Helpful

• A planner or digital tool for tracking lessons

• A library card and a few go-to online resources

• Support from a local homeschooling group

Also Read: Understanding the Pros and Cons of Homeschooling Kids

What Should You Teach When Homeschooling?

Every homeschool looks different, but most families start with the same core subjects. What makes homeschooling unique is how you teach these subjects and how deeply you personalize them based on your child’s needs, learning style, and pace.

Let’s break down what you should cover and how to make each subject meaningful:

Core Subjects You’ll Cover

Most parents begin with four essential subjects. These form the backbone of your yearly plan, but the way you teach them can stay flexible.

1. Language Arts

Kids often develop reading and writing skills at different speeds, and that is completely normal. Start with small steps and increase structure as your child gains confidence.

• What it improves: reading, writing, spelling, grammar, and literature

• Example: Let your child copy a favorite sentence from a book they love. It builds handwriting, spelling, and confidence in one activity.

2. Math

Math grows best through short, consistent exposure rather than long, stressful lessons. Many families mix games, books, and a light curriculum during the early years.

• What it improves: basic skills, problem-solving, and number sense

• Example: Use a baking session to introduce fractions or measurement without turning it into a formal lesson.

3. Science

You don’t need a full lab to teach science. Curiosity is the biggest driver, especially between ages 5–12.

• What it improves: nature study, simple experiments, and basic reasoning

• Example: If your child becomes fascinated by clouds, start a small weather journal and track daily observations together.

4. History

History connects well through stories rather than memorizing dates. Keep it light and enjoyable during the early years.

• What it improves: stories, timelines, and early exposure to world events

• Example: Choose one historical figure each month and read a kid-friendly biography together.

Add-On Subjects Based on Interest and Age

After the core areas feel steady, introduce additional subjects based on your child’s interests and your family priorities. Common add-ons include:

• Art and music

• Physical education

• Foreign languages

• Health

• Technology skills

• Electives led by your child’s hobbies

Example: A child who loves drawing can explore art history or take a beginner sketching course as part of weekly lessons.

Quick Look at Subjects by Development Stage

Age Range	Focus Areas	Teaching Style
5–12	Reading basics, handwriting, simple math, nature study, story-based history	Play-based, short lessons, hands-on activities
13+	Strong writing, structured math, deeper science and history, and electives	Independent work, projects, interest-driven learning

Using Helpful Tools 

If you use AI tools, keep them focused on helping you, not completing tasks for your child. Helpful uses include:

• Creating practice sheets

• Planning weekly lessons

• Organizing records

• Finding age-appropriate activities

At its core, homeschooling works best when you build around your child’s strengths and interests. Follow the required subjects, but give yourself permission to adapt them.

Also Read: Joining and Understanding a Homeschool Co-op

10 Clear Steps To Begin Homeschooling Successfully

You already know what you need and what to teach. Now the question is how to do homeschool? These steps walk you from your first bit of research to building a rhythm that feels natural for your family.

Step 1: Explore Your Homeschool Options

Every family begins in a different place, so start with a wide view of what homeschooling can look like. Read trusted resources, listen to experienced families, and join local groups to hear real stories.

• Visit your library’s homeschooling section

• Attend a local meet-up or parent workshop

• Follow a state homeschool association page

Talking with supportive parents helps you understand what homeschooling can offer your child.

Step 2: Learn Your State’s Requirements

Homeschool laws vary across the U.S., and knowing your local rules helps you start confidently. Some states expect only a simple notice of intent, while others ask for records or yearly assessments.

Here’s a quick overview to help you compare:

Regulation Level	States	What’s Required
Minimal	Alaska, Texas, Idaho	Basic instruction, no notice needed
Moderate	Virginia, North Carolina	Notice of intent, progress records
High	New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts	Notice, detailed plans, assessments

Keep copies of everything you submit. This makes each school year easier to manage.

Step 3: Set Clear Educational Goals

Before choosing books or materials, think about what you want your child to gain this year. Goals help you stay focused when life gets busy and keep your teaching grounded in what matters most.

• Skills your child needs to strengthen

• Interests they want to explore

• Habits you want to build together

Step 4: Choose a Homeschool Style That Fits

Homeschooling works best when your approach matches your child’s learning patterns. Many parents explore several methods before landing on the one that feels natural. Popular approaches include:

• Charlotte Mason

• Montessori

• Classical

• Unit studies

• Unschooling

• Traditional curriculum-based learning

Try observing your child for a week. Notice how they absorb information. This helps you choose a method without guesswork.

Step 5: Select Your Curriculum With Confidence

Choosing a curriculum often feels intimidating, but it becomes easier when you start small. Look for materials that support your goals and match your teaching style.

• Try samples before buying

• Start with core subjects only

• Mix online and offline resources

• Avoid expensive bundles until you know what works

Remember: you can adjust anything later. Flexibility is part of the journey.

Step 6: Create a Home Learning Space

You don’t need a classroom to homeschool well. You only need a comfortable space where learning materials stay organized and easy to reach.

Some families use a kitchen table. Others use a corner shelf, a rolling cart, or a small desk. Choose whatever reduces clutter and helps your child focus.

Step 7: Set Academic and Personal Goals 

Academic growth is important, but homeschooling also supports physical health, emotional development, and independence. Planning for these areas helps you raise a well-rounded learner. Think about:

• Physical activity

• Social opportunities

• Creative outlets

• Family values and priorities

Step 8: Build a Flexible Daily Rhythm

A smooth rhythm lowers stress for both you and your child. Instead of filling every hour, create a flow that balances core subjects, free play, and breaks. Many families find it helpful to:

• Start with the subject needing the most focus

• Group shared subjects together

• Rotate independent tasks

• Keep afternoons open for outings or hobbies

Flexibility is your friend, so adjust your rhythm as needed.

Step 9: Include Community, Extracurriculars, and Social Time

Homeschooled kids thrive when they stay active in their communities. Sports, clubs, co-op classes, and volunteering offer meaningful experiences that enrich learning. 

Start by exploring community centers, local sports leagues, art studios, homeschool meet-ups, and faith groups. Kids learn so much through connection, and these activities build confidence.

Step 10: Avoid Common New-Homeschool Pitfalls

Every parent faces a few bumps in the early months, so knowing them ahead of time helps you stay grounded. Watch out for:

• Feeling isolated- join a community early

• Overbuying curriculum- test before purchasing

• Expecting perfection- progress matters more than perfection

Once you understand the steps on how to do homeschool, the next challenge is organizing your year in a way that feels manageable. That’s where planning strategies make a real difference.

Ready for extra support as you start building your homeschool routine? TSHA gives you hands-on tools, live guidance, and an easy-to-follow curriculum so you can move through each step with confidence.

Practical Strategies To Plan Your Homeschool Year

Planning doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. Instead, think of it as designing a structure that supports your child while leaving room for curiosity and the occasional unexpected day.

Start With What Your Child Already Knows

If your child attended school previously, review where they left off. Think about subjects that came easily and areas that need focused attention. If this is their first year, picture the type of learning environment you want to create.

Review Last Year’s Wins and Gaps

Look at what worked and what didn’t. Did certain subjects take longer than expected? Did you underestimate your breaks or overestimate your goals? Use last year’s experiences to shape a more realistic plan this year.

Set Clear Daily Priorities

Decide on your non-negotiables. These might be reading, math, and one hands-on activity. When a day gets chaotic, sticking to your priorities helps you stay consistent without pressure.

Use Time Blocks Instead of Strict Timetables

Instead of scheduling subjects to the minute, try grouping activities:

• Family learning block: read-alouds or shared lessons

• Independent block: math or writing

• Outdoor or movement block

This gives you a rhythm without creating unnecessary stress.

Keep Space for Flexibility

Some subjects move faster than planned; others take longer. Leave pockets of time open so you can shift as needed. Flexibility helps you adjust without feeling like you’re “behind.”

Plan With All Siblings in Mind

If you have more than one child, think about how their needs overlap. Younger children may join older siblings during read-alouds, while older kids can work independently during early-childhood activities.

Tweak Your Rhythm as You Go

Your schedule will evolve with seasons, new interests, and changing routines. Update your rhythm whenever you notice something feels too rushed or too slow. Small changes can make your entire year easier.

Also Read: Creating a Typical Daily Homeschool Schedule

Get A Complete Homeschooling Support System With TSHA

If you’re looking for a homeschooling approach that’s engaging, developmentally aligned, and truly child-first, TSH Anywhere brings everything together for you. Built on the American Emergent Curriculum (AEC), a hands-on, interconnected, secular framework, TSHA helps children learn through real-world exploration, creativity, and meaningful connections.

Here’s how TSHA supports your day-to-day teaching:

• 6-week sessions that help your child dive deeper into meaningful, real-world topics.

• Custom AEC printables and worksheets that simplify planning and keep learning hands-on.

• A full online progress and portfolio tool to track growth without stress.

• TSHA Member Site access with resources, updates, and organized planning tools.

• Weekly LIVE gatherings with educators and founders for guidance and clarity.

• Live office hours and an active support network so you never homeschool alone.

TSHA brings structure, confidence, and community right to your home, so you can focus on helping your child bloom.

Wrapping Up

Homeschooling works best when you understand the core steps, organize your plan, and stay open to adjusting as your child grows. From basic requirements to choosing what to teach and building a routine, each part helps you understand how to do homeschool with more clarity and confidence.

As you move forward, remember that learning at home doesn’t have to look perfect. What matters most is creating a space where your child feels supported, curious, and ready to explore new ideas at their own pace. With steady guidance and the right tools, you can build an experience that blends structure with flexibility and real-world learning.

If you want a program that makes this transition smoother, TSHA offers developmentally aligned resources, hands-on materials, and ongoing support for every parent. Explore TSHA today and start your homeschooling journey. Register as a parent.

FAQ’s

Q. Do I need qualifications to homeschool?

In most states, parents don’t need formal teaching credentials to homeschool their children. You simply need to follow your state’s homeschooling laws, which may include record-keeping or annual assessments.

Q. How to homeschool children when you don't know everything?

You don’t need to be an expert in every subject. Many families use structured curricula, online resources, and educator support to guide lessons while focusing on consistent learning rather than perfect knowledge.

Q. What exactly is the process of going to homeschool, and how is homeschooling done? Is it just like online school? Do I get to choose what I learn?

Homeschooling is different from online school because you manage the schedule, materials, and teaching approach at home. Families choose or design a curriculum that fits their child’s needs, and the process usually includes lessons, hands-on activities, and regular progress tracking. Students often have more choice in subjects and learning styles than in traditional settings.

Q. How can I start preparing to homeschool my child?

Begin by reviewing your state’s requirements and thinking about your child’s learning style and daily routine. Next, explore curriculum options, set up a simple learning space, and build a schedule you can follow consistently.