The first 10 steps to take to ensure a smooth and successful start!

 

Research Your State’s Homeschool Laws

• Each state has different homeschooling requirements.
• In Florida, you must submit a Notice of Intent to your local school district.

2. Choose a Homeschooling Method

• Consider approaches like Traditional, Charlotte Mason, Montessori, Unschooling, or Unit Studies.
• Pick a method that aligns with your child’s learning style.

3. Set Homeschooling Goals

• Define what you want your child to achieve academically and personally.
• Consider subjects, life skills, and extracurricular activities.

4. Select a Homeschool Curriculum

• Choose pre-packaged curricula or customize your own using PLR education materials and free resources.
• Options: Abeka, Time4Learning, The Good and the Beautiful, Khan Academy, or FLVS (Florida Virtual School).

5. Create a Dedicated Learning Space

• Set up a comfortable and organized homeschool area with materials, books, and supplies.

6. Establish a Daily or Weekly Schedule

• Create a flexible but structured routine that includes core subjects, breaks, and extracurriculars.
• Decide if you’ll homeschool year-round or follow a traditional school calendar.

7. Gather Necessary Materials and Resources

• Basic supplies: Notebooks, whiteboards, pencils, and learning apps.
• Library memberships, educational subscriptions, and workbooks.

8. Plan for Socialization & Extracurriculars

• Join local homeschool co-ops, online homeschool groups, or extracurricular activities like sports, dance, or music.
• Plan field trips to museums, science centers, and parks.

9. Keep Records and Create a Portfolio

• Track attendance, lesson plans, assignments, and progress reports.
• In Florida, a homeschool portfolio must be kept for at least 2 years for potential evaluation.

10. Connect with the Homeschool Community

• Find support groups on Facebook, local homeschool meetups, or online forums.
• Engage with experienced homeschooling parents for tips and guidance.