Decide on when you and your child will celebrate your first day of school. Most parents begin on the first day of a standard school year, or select a time in the month of September. Other parents decide to start immediately and just complete the amount of annual school days required by their state.
Research homeschooling requirements for your particular state. The web will produce quick results, and the library will carry books about homeschooling that should outline this information. The Homeschool Legal Defense Association's website at hslda.org is one great place to start. Once at the site, click on the "About Homeschooling" link at the top of the page. Click on your state to read what the homeschooling requirements are for your specific state. Each state should list how many hours per day, and days per year are required, and any testing and documentation that will be necessary for you to begin the process. Your specific state requirements should also list if you are required to notify your child's school of your intent to homeschool.
Collect all necessary forms and documents. There are several websites where you can print forms specific to your state. You may also find forms in homeschooling books at your local library that you can then photocopy. Another option is to contact your local department of education and ask them to send you the necessary forms and documentation you will need to begin homeschooling in your state. Forms are available at the hslda.org website. Once you obtain your forms, fill them out and fax or mail them to the your states Department of Education, or the educational organization listed on the documents.
Select an educational curriculum based on your child's learning style, your family's needs, and your budget. Homeschooling costs vary and can range from a substantial investment to completely free. There are literally hundreds of curricula to choose from, making it easy to custom build your child's educational track. A few to consider are Abeka, Sonlight, K-12, Switched on Schoolhouse and Ambleside Online. YouCanHomeschool.org provides information at the "How do I do it?" link, where they list websites and resources that will help guide you through this process. Don't forget your local library - an invaluable resource for homeschooling books chock full of various curriculum reviews and suggestions. There are even books available that will walk you through homeschooling for free.
Purchase your curriculum or, if you are using a free curriculum like Ambleside Online, compile all necessary books from your local library. Feel free to borrow any other homeschooling resources your local library may have available. Homeschooling doesn't have to be expensive, and your local library is an excellent way to cut costs.
Purchase any school supplies, or homeschool classroom equipment, that you may need during your school year. Pencils, pens, paper and notebooks are typical school supplies necessary to get off to a good start. Homeschool classroom equipment might include a chalk board or white board, a desk, chalk, and maps and educational posters for the walls. Keep in mind that none of this classroom equipment is necessary, but can come in handy while teaching your child. Many homeschooling families do fine working at their dining room table.
Sit your child down before your selected first day of school, and discuss what you and your child can expect out of this new experience. Explain to them the goals and benefits of your family homeschool program and address any concerns they might have.
Take it slow in your first few days of homeschooling. Ease into the transition and take breaks if necessary. Homeschooling does hold a bit of a learning curve for both you and your child. Over the next few weeks, things will become much more fluid and you and your child will begin to experience the benefits of your homeschooling journey.