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1. Learn Your State’s Laws Regarding Homeschooling

Homeschooling is legal in every state in the United States. However, the

requirements vary from state to state, and it is important that you understand

them. Some states have no requirements (Hey, you are the parent – right!), while

others have a list of requirements to meet. Don’t panic at this point! I’ve never

heard of a family who didn’t homeschool because of their state’s requirements. I

have heard of families who choose where they live based on the requirements

though!

Many of the states I have looked at have more then one reporting option and

families can choose the one that fits best for them. Of course, this makes reading

through the requirements feel more overwhelming then necessary. Generally,

there are three areas you want to understand: do you need to notify anyone that

you are planning on homeschooling, do you need to track attendance or subjects

taught, and do you need to keep any records?

HSLDA has a list of requirements for each state, or you can do a search for the

homeschooling requirements for your state.

***Additional Step if Your Children are Enrolled in Public (or Private) School***

Unenroll them and take time to deschool. Have slow mornings, read books for

fun, play outside. The general guideline is a week for every year they have spent

in school. Use this time to think about your priorities and plan a vision for your

homeschool.

2. Choose a Style

No, we are not talking about jeans here! Think about how your child learns best

and what you want your days to look like. Some kids love to move and explore;

others prefer to read and discuss. Whatever you decide you are not committing

forever. As children grow their needs change. What is appropriate for a 7-year-

old might not be the best option for a middle schooler or high schooler. One of

the benefits of homeschooling is being able to adjust as your child grows and

their needs change. Some examples of homeschool styles are Classical,

Charlotte Mason, Traditional, or any combination that works for you! Some

families prefer to be involved in co-ops while others prefer to keep the teaching

under their control.

3. Plan a Routine

You don’t need to recreate school at home. Consistency with just a couple of

hours a day of schoolwork leads to results. Ask yourself some questions - What

are the needs of your family? Do you need time to work? Are there babies or

toddlers who will need attention? Any outside activities or appointments on a

regular basis? Plan out a daily and weekly routine to start with. Use pencil and

don’t forget time for you!

4. Choose Curriculum and Gather Supplies

There are many, many curriculum options available. These range from a high

price point to completely free options. It is possible to homeschool successfully with a

library card, pencils and paper! It is also possible to spend lots of money on extensive

curriculum sets. Most families I know fall somewhere in the middle. Figure out your

budget, what your goals are for your homeschool and how your child responds best –

the go for it!

What if My Child has Special Needs?

You can still homeschool! We do and you can too!

Start here if you don’t know where to begin.

Real-life strategies, encouragement, and support that actually works.

Easy, low-stress ideas you can start today.

Turn everyday moments and trips into meaningful learning.

Homeschooling a child with special needs can be a deeply rewarding path because it

allows you to shape education around your child, not the other way around. Instead of

trying to fit into a one-size-fits-all system, you can design a learning approach that

reflects your child’s strengths, supports their challenges, and respects their natural

pace. That flexibility often leads to more meaningful progress, because learning

happens in a way that actually makes sense to them.

With customized instruction, you have the freedom to experiment and adapt. If

something isn’t working, you can change it—whether that means switching teaching

methods, incorporating more hands-on activities, or building lessons around your child’s

interests. You can slow down when concepts need more time, or move quickly when

your child is engaged and thriving. Progress doesn’t have to be measured by grade

levels or timelines, but by genuine understanding and growth.

The home environment itself can also make a powerful difference. A familiar, low-

pressure setting helps reduce stress, anxiety, and sensory overload—common barriers

to learning for many children with special needs. Without the distractions and demands

of a traditional classroom, children often feel safer, more confident, and more willing to

take risks in their learning. That emotional security can open the door to breakthroughs

that might not happen elsewhere.

Just as important, homeschooling doesn’t mean doing everything on your own. Many

families build a strong support system that complements their home education.

Therapies such as occupational therapy (OT), physical therapy (PT), and speech

therapy can often be accessed through medical insurance or local programs, providing

specialized support alongside your teaching. Community resources, homeschool

groups, and co-ops can also offer social opportunities, shared learning experiences,

and encouragement from others on a similar journey.

There are many curriculums designed for children with special needs. Homeschooling

means you can choose what skills to focus on and how to focus on them. For example,

a child who is interested in food or cooking can work on reading and math skills by

helping with grocery shopping or following (or helping to follow) a recipe. Perhaps you

want to focus on self help skills to give your child increased independence? Guess what

– homeschooling means you have more time with your child to work on those skills.

Over time, homeschooling can become more than just an educational choice—it

becomes a lifestyle that prioritizes connection, flexibility, and whole-child development.

You get to celebrate small wins, adjust to changing needs, and truly understand how

your child learns best. While it may come with challenges, many families find that the

ability to meet their child exactly where they are—and help them grow from there—is

well worth it.