As the school year draws near for many the thoughts of “Should I homeschool my child?” sometimes come to mind. Everyone has different reasons for homeschooling but the common question seams to be “How do I start homeschooling?”
This is our first year that we will be homeschooling our sons. We have received amazing support from local homeschool cooperatives and from inspirational homeschool families that blog.
Below are a few posts that I’ve found to be helpful to me in the beginning process of homeschooling. We are switching from a public setting so we had a little more paperwork involved but perhaps you have a preschooler and want to start now. I say it’s a great idea!
Tips on How to Start Homeschooling
Pray about your why! The first step in homeschooling is ultimately your decision to homeschool. Like I mentioned before everyone has their reasons but I really relate to The Hill Hangout as we also have great public schools around us. Homeschooling 101: Pray It Up is a starting point to look at the scripture and determine if this is the path meant for your family.
Record Keeping is a Must! Most states require documentation of the days/hours you spent educating your child(ren) – but what to keep? Harrington Harmonies shares Ten Years of Homeschooling in a Box, a great post on what to keep and with images to give you ideas on how to organize all the records involved.

‘Be prepared for lots of books’
Organizing the Large Family Homeschool by Raising Arrows
Learn from the been there’s As a mother I’ve quickly learned that I’d much rather learn from those that have been there then to try to do it all new myself. Amy from Raising Arrows shares her 10 Things I Wish Someone Had Told Me About Homeschooling – everything from odd things to expect to knowing that there are rough roads ahead.
Find rest in knowing you aren’t alone The moment the word ‘homeschool’ slips your mouth you will be questioned and told you are in the wrong. I’ve found this huge 10 Days of Homeschooling series a source of laughter, oh yeah, and pondering moments. Not only does Fruit in Season have this series but they have links to more 10 Day series full of homeschool information and resources.
Know the Law Once you’ve made the decision that homeschooling is right for you then HSLDA – Home School Legal Defense Association needs to be your next step. They have the homeschooling laws broken down by states so it’s easy to find the rules for your area. Most states require a form letting the school district know of your homeschool plans by August 1st.
“Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.” Psalm 143 NIV
Just because he’s a cutie I leave you with this…. yes, two months old already!
Alaina Frederick, publisher of Dinker & Giggles, loves helping to create a healthy environment for her four boys and husband. Her favorite time of year is winter - trees blanketed with fresh snow, hot cocoa in hand, and a great book completing the package.
Have fun pulling it all together!!!
Jolanthe´s last [type] ..Less Productive and Learning to Not Stress
What a beautiful boy!! Seriously, that face is just precious! Thanks for the link Alaina, and I wish you God’s blessings as you embark on this journey. It’s a wild and rewarding ride.