How to Start Homeschooling: A Simple Guide for Parents
- Mayra Hoyos
- Jun 24
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 24
Homeschooling can feel overwhelming at first. You might be asking yourself: Where do I even begin? How do I know what to teach? Will I be able to do this well? If you’re feeling this way, you’re not alone.
As a parent, you want the best for your child—and homeschooling gives you the chance to shape learning around your family’s values, routines, and pace. It’s flexible. It’s personal. And yes, it can be joyful.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the first steps of homeschooling. Whether you're just starting to explore the idea or ready to dive in, this is for you.
Understand the Basics
Before anything else, take a moment to learn what homeschooling really means.
Homeschooling is when parents take full responsibility for their child’s education. You choose the curriculum. You decide the pace. And you create the learning environment—often right at home.
Each country (and in the U.S., each state) has different rules. For example, if you’re in Texas, there are specific homeschooling requirements you need to meet. These usually include:
A written curriculum (can be online or offline)
Regular instruction in key subjects (like math, reading, and science)
Keeping records of attendance or progress
You don’t need to have a teaching degree. But you do need to be committed, organized, and open to learning alongside your child.
Choose the Right Homeschooling Curriculum
This is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make—but it doesn’t have to be stressful.
There are many types of homeschooling programs. Some are very structured and come with lesson plans. Others are more flexible and child-led.
When choosing a curriculum, ask yourself:
What is my child’s learning style?
What values or beliefs are important to our family?
Do I want a religious (like a Christian homeschooling curriculum) or secular program?
Will I be teaching multiple children at once?
There are plenty of options, including:
Homeschooling curriculum for kindergarten (age-appropriate activities, early reading, numbers)
Homeschooling curriculum free (downloadable PDFs, open-source materials)
Homeschooling programs online (self-paced courses, interactive learning platforms)
Many parents try a mix before settling on what works. That’s okay. This is your journey too.
Build a Simple Routine.
Children thrive on rhythm. You don’t need a strict schedule, but having a predictable flow to your day helps everyone.
A sample homeschool routine might look like this:
8:30 AM: Morning circle or story
9:00 AM: Literacy activity or worksheet
10:00 AM: Snack and outdoor play
10:45 AM: Math games or practice
11:30 AM: Creative project (art, music, science)
12:30 PM: Lunch and quiet time
Your routine can include chores, read-alouds, and even nature walks. Keep it flexible—and don’t be afraid to follow your child’s interests.
Get Support and Resources
Homeschooling doesn’t mean doing it alone. There are many resources available to help you along the way:
Facebook groups or local co-ops for homeschooling families
Online forums and free lesson libraries
Homeschooling pickers (tools that help you match programs to your style)
There are also websites that offer complete homeschooling curriculum options, whether you’re looking for a traditional setup or something more modern.
And yes—you can still receive a homeschooling diploma or transcript for your child, especially if you stick to recognized curriculum paths.
How Elina Can Help
Planning lessons can take a lot of time.
But it doesn’t have to. Instead of starting from scratch, I use Elina—an AI-powered assistant that helps me create thoughtful, child-centered lesson plans in minutes. It suggests developmentally appropriate activities, gives me new ideas, and even helps me stay organized with weekly plans.
Whether you’re teaching one child or several, Elina adapts to your goals and style. It’s especially helpful when you’re juggling work, home, and everything in between. You don’t need to be techy to use it. And the best part? It feels like I have a planning partner who truly understands what children need to thrive.
Helpful Resources to Get You Started
Looking for more support on your homeschooling journey? Here are some trusted resources to explore programs, requirements, and free curriculum options. These links can guide you through your first steps, answer questions, and offer materials to make your teaching day easier and more joyful.
Government Sources
U.S. Department of Education – Homeschooling Resources
Homeschooling Legal Defense Association (HSLDA)
Information on homeschooling laws by state, including Texas.
Texas Education Agency – Homeschooling Guidelines
BBC Bitesize – Free educational content by subject and age group
National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI)
Research and data about homeschooling trends and benefits.
Free Curriculum & Resource Platforms
Khan Academy – Free Online Courses
For all ages, covering subjects like math, science, reading, and more.
Easy Peasy All-in-One Homeschool
Completely free Christian-based homeschool curriculum.
Education.com – Printable Worksheets and Lesson Plans
Offers many free resources for parents and teachers.
PBS LearningMedia – Educational videos, games, and lesson ideas
Connect with Elina
Elina – AI-Powered Lesson Planning for Educators
Built in Finland, Elina helps you simplify your homeschool planning with ready-to-use ideas and printable activities.
Elina Blog – Tips for Teachers and Homeschoolers
Insights, printables, and planning advice written with care.
Homeschooling is a big step—but you don’t have to figure it all out today.
It is a brave and beautiful decision. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being present. Every small step you take builds a learning environment where your child feels safe, seen, and supported.
Start where you are. Begin with one activity, one subject, or one good conversation. You’ll learn what works through practice, patience, and connection.
There’s no one right way to homeschool—only the way that fits your family best. And you don’t have to do it all alone.
And if you ever feel stuck? Elina is here to help.
If you’re looking for a little guidance, a spark of inspiration, or just help staying organized, Elina is here. Think of it as a supportive partner that helps you plan lessons with heart, not just structure.
Try Elina today and see how joyful, simple, and rewarding homeschooling can be.
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