Determine why you want to homeschool. The reason for wanting to homeschool is important when finding the right curriculum. Many people homeschool for religious reasons, believing that the public school environment conflicts with their own spiritual teachings. If that is your reason, you will want a curriculum that follows your family's beliefs. Other reasons for homeschooling might be social conflicts, lessons that are too slow or too fast, ESL barriers or frequent family traveling.
Research homeschool curriculum. The easiest way to homeschool your child is to find a complete package curriculum, one that you can purchase or enroll in that includes everything you need. Grace Academy is just one of many accredited Christian-oriented programs available. Calvert School is an actual private K-8 academy that offers their curriculum for homeschooling parents. Calvert is not religious based and offers either just the supplies and lesson plan or the supplies, lesson plan and grading and transcript services. University of Texas and Texas Tech University both offer complete distance education for K-12 students. What is best about these schools is that they both offer real diplomas rather than just a GED. These schools offer everything with their programs, including lesson grading and administrative services. Students do not have to live in Texas to register.
Enroll your child in the new program before removing him or her from public school. When you find a homeschool program you like, be prepared with registration and books before cutting off the educational supply. The transition will be easier for you and your child if you are ready to start right away.
Inform your school district of your decision. Each district has its own rules about homeschool. Some don't require any notification, treating homeschool like a private school. Some districts, however, request a letter of assurance that your child will receive an appropriate homeschooling education. At the very least, they might ask for a monthly attendance verification. It is up to you to find out the laws in your area before removing your child from public school.
Discuss the curriculum and your educational plan with your child. Transitioning from public school to homeschool can be traumatic for a child who is unprepared for the experience. Explain you your child what is expected of him, how many lessons he has to complete each week and any other rules he'll need to know. If you are enrolling him in one of the distance education programs, explain to your child how to submit the lessons and who at the school to contact if he has a question.