Break the Mold

Each family has unique interests, goals, strengths, weaknesses, circumstances, values, and needs. It is important to find something that works for you, your child, and your family. This will be different than what works for other homeschool families. Do NOT buy a curriculum or go with a certain method just because it has worked for another family that you admire. Trying to fit yourself and your kids into some else’s box will put undue stress and fatigue on you. It could shake your confidence and lead you to doubt your decision to home educate.

Here are a few links to quizzes that may help you find out what homeschooling styles might work for your family. Consider the results of the quizzes along with your goals, worldview, and other factors like time, money, and values when choosing a homeschooling method and curriculum.

eclectic homeschool what kind of a homeschooler are you quiz

Once you find out what method(s) best suit you and your family, head over to the styles and methods. page to learn more about curriculum choices that correspond with them.

Think Local

Familiarize yourself with how homeschooling works in your area. You need to understand your state laws and which groups there are so you can get connected with other homeschoolers near you. Some states dictate mandatory portfolio reviews, graduation requirements, testing, record keeping, instruction hours, and more. Some states require less, and some states don’t require anything. Each state’s homeschool laws are different so be sure you review and understand the laws that apply to you.  Learn about homeschooling laws in your state on HSLDA’s (Homeschool Legal Defense Association) website Regardless of your political/religious affiliation, HSLDA is an organization you will want to utilize. Consider getting a membership with them. The value is priceless.

Make a Mission Statement

Refer to notes from the Thinking About Homeschooling page. Consider using these thoughts to make a mission statement.  It is important to keep in mind the reasons you decided to homeschool, why it is important to you, and your long-term goals.  You will have hard days and question your decision to homeschool. Your mission statement will act as a compass to help you stay the course when life as a homeschooling family gets stormy.

What Suits You?

Learn about the different homeschool styles and methods. Think about which one (or more) will fit your family best. Some people like to use one specific method, while others like to combine aspects of the different methods (eclectic).

This is a learning process for everyone, and it is very likely that you will try different things, so have a lot grace for yourself. Understand this is a fluid process that you and your kids will figure out together as you go and grow. Check out the links to style quizzes on this page and then for detailed information on different meths, head over to our styles and methods page.

Consider these things when you are making your decisions: