So, You Want to Homeschool

Homeschool Checklist: What to Do First

So, you’re thinking about homeschooling your child. Whether you’re pursuing it full-time or as part of a hybrid approach (like microschooling a few days a week and learning at home the rest), taking the leap into homeschooling can feel overwhelming at first. But don’t worry—it’s absolutely doable, and you’re not alone.

Here is a step-by-step checklist to help you get started with clarity and confidence.

1. Know Your “Why”

Before jumping into curriculum or lesson planning, take a moment to define why you’re considering homeschooling. Your reasons will help guide every decision you make moving forward.

• Are you looking for more flexibility?

• Do you want to customize your child’s education?

• Are you concerned about the current school environment?

• Do you want to include religious or values-based learning?

Write down your top reasons. You’ll return to them often as a compass.

2. Learn Your State’s Homeschooling Laws

Homeschooling is legal in all 50 states, but the rules vary widely.

• Some states require you to submit a notice of intent to homeschool.

• Others may ask you to maintain attendance records, submit standardized test scores, or follow certain curriculum guidelines.

Visit HSLDA.org or Utah’s State Board of Education website to get clear on your state’s requirements. Don’t skip this step—it’s the foundation for a smooth start.

3. Choose Your Homeschooling Style

There’s no one-size-fits-all model. Choosing a general approach will help you narrow down curriculum choices and structure your day.

Popular styles include:

• Traditional (similar to school-at-home with textbooks and schedules)

• Classical (based on the trivium: grammar, logic, rhetoric)

• Charlotte Mason (focus on literature, nature, and narration)

• Unschooling (child-led, interest-based learning)

• Unit Studies (thematic, project-based learning across subjects)

• Eclectic (a mix of methods—very common among homeschoolers)

There’s no wrong answer here—just what works best for your child and family.

4. Decide on a Curriculum (Or Don’t Yet)

You don’t need to have every subject figured out on Day 1. Start by asking:

• Do I want a pre-packaged curriculum or would I rather build my own?

• Will I be teaching everything myself, or using online programs or local co-ops?

• What kind of learning does my child enjoy—videos, books, hands-on activities?

Some popular homeschool curriculum providers include:

• The Good and the Beautiful

• BookShark

• BJU Press

• Easy Peasy All-in-One

• Khan Academy (free, online, great for math/science)

Remember: You can always change your curriculum later. This is a journey, not a contract.

5. Create a Basic Schedule or Rhythm

Homeschooling doesn’t need to mimic the 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. school day. Your schedule can be as flexible or as structured as you like.

Questions to consider:

• What hours of the day are best for your child’s focus?

• Will you homeschool every weekday, or take a 4-day approach?

• Do you want to do school in the morning and keep afternoons open for field trips or play?

Start with a simple plan—then adjust as needed.

6. Set Up a Learning Space

You don’t need a fancy homeschool room. Many families homeschool at the kitchen table or on the couch. What’s important is creating an environment that supports focus and consistency.

• Stock a small shelf or cart with supplies.

• Use baskets for books and binders.

• Create a routine for tidying up the space at the end of each day.

7. Get Plugged In With Other Families

Homeschooling doesn’t mean going it alone. Finding a community will keep you encouraged and help your child build friendships.

Look for:

• Local homeschool co-ops

• Facebook groups or forums for homeschoolers in your area

• Library programs, museum classes, or field trip groups

• Hybrid microschools or pod groups that meet part-time

These connections are especially helpful when you need advice—or just a reminder that you’re not the only one doing this.

8. Track Progress Without Stress

You don’t need to grade everything or assign tests every week (unless your state requires it; Utah doesn’t). But you do want to keep an eye on growth.

Try:

• Keeping a learning journal

• Taking photos or videos of projects

• Making a portfolio with writing samples or worksheets

• Using free assessments to check for mastery

Focus on progress over perfection—your child’s development matters more than any test score.

9. Give Yourself Grace

You won’t have it all figured out right away. That’s okay. The first few months are often about finding your rhythm, learning what works (and what doesn’t), and growing together as a family.

Give yourself permission to:

• Pivot your approach

• Take breaks

• Ask for help

• Celebrate small wins

You’re not just teaching academics—you’re building confidence, connection, and a love of learning.

Final Thoughts

Starting homeschooling is a big step—but with the right mindset and a simple plan, it can be one of the most rewarding choices you ever make for your child. This checklist isn’t about perfection—it’s about helping you start strong and stay flexible.

You’ve got this!