Homeschooling laws differ from state to state, so make sure you know the laws in your state. Ask a librarian to help you research state laws or contact a local home education support group.
Notify your child's school, in writing, that you will be homeschooling your child. If you do not formally notify the school, your child will be considered truant, which has legal consequences. Some states have a deadline for notifying schools about homeschooling.
Several states require that the primary homeschooling instructor have a minimum of a high school diploma or a GED equivalent. In addition, many states require home-schooled students to have 180 days of instruction per year, although they do not have to follow the schedule of public schools. You may also be required to record grades and keep a portfolio for your student.
Homeschooling can be expensive or cheap, depending on your curriculum. For example, if you travel a lot or buy expensive textbooks, homeschooling could cost thousands of dollars per year. If you buy used textbooks or get books from your local library, homeschooling may only cost a few hundred dollars a year. Think about your budget when you plan your curriculum.