A Simple Guide
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Why You Need to Know This
If you’re a parent who’s been feeling uneasy about what your child is (or isn’t) learning in public school—whether it’s the absence of biblical truth, lack of real-life skills, or values that don’t align with your family—then this guide is for you. This guide is simple, to the point and avoids all the fluff. Homeschooling offers the chance to reclaim your child’s education, build strong family bonds, and disciple their heart while still meeting educational standards and enjoying extracurriculars.
This Is for Beginners
You don’t need a teaching degree, a Pinterest-perfect classroom, or a farm full of goats (though that can be fun). You just need a willing heart, a plan, patience, and God’s grace for not only your children, but yourself as well. This guide will keep things simple and practical, so you can take confident first steps.
Have you ever felt that nudge—that longing to be more present in your child’s life, to protect their heart, and to shape their character from a place of faith and love?
You’re not alone.
More and more families are stepping away from public school systems and stepping into the beautiful, sometimes messy, but always meaningful journey of homeschooling. Whether you’re curious, convicted, or just tired of Common Core math, this guide will help you understand what homeschooling really is, why it’s worth considering, and how you can get started—even if you’re brand new.
Contents
- What is homeschooling and why is it important?
- What are the key components of homeschooling?
- What are the benefits of mastering homeschooling?
- Key things to know about homeschooling
- How to get started
- Common mistakes to avoid in homeschooling
- Top tools for homeschooling families
- Helpful resources to learn more
- Wrapping up
What is Homeschooling and Why Is It Important?
Definition: Homeschooling is the practice of educating your children at home, typically by a parent or guardian, rather than sending them to a traditional public or private school.
Background: Once considered unconventional, homeschooling has become a growing movement, especially among Christian families seeking to raise their children in truth, love, and wisdom.
Why It Matters: Homeschooling gives parents the freedom to:
- Teach from a biblical worldview
- Prioritize character development
- Customize learning to suit each child’s strengths and needs
- Reclaim family time and unity (sometimes disguised as fieldtrips)
And yes, your kids can still play sports, join co-ops, and attend dances if you want them to.
What Are the Key Components of Homeschooling?
1. Curriculum
This includes textbooks, lesson plans, workbooks, and online resources. Choose a curriculum that aligns with your educational goals and faith values (many offer Christian-centered options). Also, keep in mind, just because a certain curriculum worked for friends or family doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a good fit for your family. You don’t have to choose just one brand for every subject or even every child; the choices should be determined based on factors like learning styles, time available for your homeschool day, and what goals you’re hoping to achieve.
2. Legal Compliance
Each U.S. state has its own homeschooling laws. Some require notification or testing; others are more relaxed. It’s crucial to understand and follow your state’s guidelines. Visit your state’s website to gain a good understanding of what the guidelines are in your state.
3. Daily Routine
A flexible but consistent schedule keeps learning on track while giving room for life, rest, and family bonding. Routines should reflect your home’s values—not mimic public school. You also shouldn’t try too hard to mimic what you see on social media or even some TV shows. These examples are sometimes unrealistic because of differences in family life, obligations, and even expectations. Your daily routine is exactly that…it’s yours and should reflect your unique family!
What Are the Benefits of Mastering Homeschooling?
Stronger Family Bonds
You’ll spend more quality time with your children, which builds lifelong trust and unity.
Faith-Based Learning
You can incorporate prayer, Scripture, and biblical worldview into every subject—even math and science.
Tailored Education
You can meet your child where they are—whether they’re gifted, behind, or somewhere in between.
Key Things to Know About Homeschooling
Best Practice 1: Know Your State Laws
Use HSLDA.org to find up-to-date legal info.
Example: In Texas, you simply need to teach reading, spelling, grammar, math, and good citizenship with a written curriculum. In New York, however, you must submit detailed records and test results.
Best Practice 2: Focus on Character First
Academics are important—but so is integrity, diligence, patience, and humility.
Example: Reading the Bible together in the morning sets the tone for the day and reinforces values that matter most.
Best Practice 3: Keep It Simple and Sustainable
You don’t need to do all the things. Start with the basics, find your rhythm, and build from there.
Example: Begin with just math and reading in the first few weeks. Add science, history, and electives once everyone feels comfortable.
How to Get Started
Step 1: Pray and Talk It Over
Seek God’s direction. Talk with your spouse, your children (depending on their age), and trusted mentors.
Step 2: Research State Requirements
Visit your state’s Department of Education site or use HSLDA. File any necessary paperwork.
Step 3: Choose a Curriculum and Plan a Routine
Pick something manageable. Many parents and kids (including us) love some of these:
- Christianbook (faith-based, with many resources in one place)
- Sonlight (great in-depth curriculum, with established scheduling and instruction for even the newest homeschooler)
- Notgrass History (Christian-based history)
Step 4: Join a Local or Online Community
Find a homeschool co-op, Facebook group, or church-based support group to connect with others. You don’t have to do this alone!
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Homeschooling
Mistake 1: Trying to Recreate Public School at Home
Desks, bells, and 7-hour schedules don’t work well in home environments.
Instead: Embrace freedom and flexibility—read on the couch, do math at the kitchen table.
Mistake 2: Over Scheduling
It’s easy to feel like you need to do it all.
Instead: Keep your calendar light as you find your rhythm. Leave time for play, rest, and family worship.
Mistake 3: Neglecting Record-Keeping
Some states require attendance, portfolios, or test results.
Instead: Keep a simple binder or digital folder with samples of work, test scores, and reading logs.
Top Tools for Homeschooling Families
Trello
Digital planner for organizing subjects, to-dos, and goals.
Use it for: Weekly planning or tracking progress per child.
Library Card
Still one of the best and free tools.
Use it for: Book clubs, free resources, and fun read-alouds.
Homeschool Co-ops
Local or online groups that offer classes, field trips, and support.
Use it for: Science labs, group projects, or just connecting with other families.
Helpful Resources to Learn More
- HSLDA (Homeschool Legal Defense Association): Legal help and state laws
- The Homeschool Compass: Encouragement and practical guides
- Simply Charlotte Mason: Great for character-rich, literature-based learning
Wrapping Up
Homeschooling doesn’t mean you have to do it all, know it all, or be perfect. It simply means showing up each day—faithfully and prayerfully—for your child. You don’t have to trade extracurriculars, college readiness, or social skills for home education. You just need to trade fear for faith and trust that God equips those He calls.
“The heart of education is the education of the heart.” – Unknown
You were made for this, mama. And you don’t have to do it alone.
Ready to take your first steps with confidence?
To make your homeschool journey a little easier, I’ve created a free printable Homeschool Starter Checklist — perfect for keeping track of prayer, planning, curriculum, and state requirements all in one place.
Print it, stick it on the fridge, or tuck it in your planner as a reminder that you’ve got this — and you don’t have to do it alone. With prayer, purpose, and a little preparation, you’re already well on your way to building a faith-filled learning environment right at home. Click here to download the printable PDF.
