A Homeschooling Guide to Get Started
Homeschooling is becoming an increasingly popular choice for families who want more flexibility and control over their child’s education. For new parents, though, the idea of starting can feel overwhelming. In this homeschooling guide we break down the basics of how to homeschool, choosing a homeschool curriculum and how you can create a schedule that works for your family.
For parents exploring homeschooling for the first time and for those ready to put a plan in place, this guide offers the foundation to begin with confidence.
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Homeschooling: A Guide for Parents
Parents choose homeschooling for many reasons, a desire for a more personalized learning experience, flexibility in scheduling, or the ability to align education with family values. Whatever the reason, homeschooling allows families to design a program that fits their child’s unique strengths and needs.
At Bloom Providers, our academic advising team works with families to create a homeschool program that balances flexibility with structure. If you are just starting out, leaning on expert resources can make the process less overwhelming and more manageable.
What is homeschooling?
Let’s start with the basics. Homeschooling is an alternative to traditional schooling where parents take primary responsibility for their child’s education. This can be done through a structured homeschool curriculum, a flexible homeschool program that combines different resources, or a mix of both.
Some parents teach all subjects themselves, while others bring in tutors or use online classes to supplement. Many families also blend homeschooling with community activities, local co-ops, and enrichment opportunities.
For a deeper look at the history, laws, and styles of homeschooling, Online Schools’ Homeschooling Guide is a valuable resource that provides a broad overview of what homeschooling looks like across the U.S.
The basics of homeschooling
Starting homeschooling requires a few core steps:
- Understand your state’s homeschooling laws: requirements vary by location.
- Choose your approach: some families prefer a structured curriculum, while others lean toward flexible, interest-led learning.
- Select materials: curriculum packages, online courses, and library resources can all be part of a homeschool program.
- Set up a learning environment: create a dedicated space that works for your family, whether it’s a desk, kitchen table, or flexible learning nook.
For new parents, it helps to remember that homeschooling doesn’t have to look like traditional school. It can adapt to your child’s learning style and your family’s rhythm.
The pros and cons of homeschooling
Like any educational choice, homeschooling comes with both advantages and challenges.
Pros:
- Flexibility in schedule and pace
- Personalized instruction tailored to each child
- Opportunity to align learning with family values
- Stronger family bonds and more time together
Cons:
- Adjustments to different levels of discipline, organization and balance
- Additional relationship dynamic of student and teacher-parent
- Environmental distractions from routine
Families often find that the benefits outweigh the challenges, but it’s important to weigh both sides before making a decision.
Creating a homeschooling schedule
One of the biggest benefits of homeschooling is flexibility, but most families find that a loose schedule helps keep learning on track. A good homeschool schedule balances structure with freedom.
- Younger children may do best with short, focused lessons in phonics, reading, and math.
- Older students often need longer blocks for independent work, projects, or lab-based subjects.
- All ages benefit from breaks, movement, and time outdoors.
For inspiration, you can explore Bloom’s resources library, which includes practical tips for parents building a daily routine.
What to teach and when to teach it
Deciding what to teach is one of the most common concerns for new homeschooling parents. The good news is that you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
Most homeschool programs are designed around developmental stages, starting with foundational skills like phonics and early math, then building toward critical thinking, writing, and advanced subjects in high school. Families often mix and match materials to create a curriculum that works.
Reading and literature also play a central role in homeschooling. Books expose children to new ideas and encourage lifelong learning. Bloom’s article on nurturing a love for literature offers insights into how stories can shape a child’s educational journey.
If you’re unsure where to start, Bloom’s academic advising services can help you select the right curriculum and map out a program that fits your child’s goals.
Take the First Step Towards Homeschooling
Homeschooling may feel overwhelming at first, but it becomes manageable when you take it step by step. Start with the basics, lean on resources, and adapt your approach as you learn what works best for your child.
This homeschooling guide is only the beginning. With the right support and a clear plan, you can create a homeschool program that meets your family’s needs and sets your child up for success.
Explore our resources library for practical tips, and if you’re ready to take the next step, reach out and allow Bloom Homeschool to help you start designing your own homeschool plan with confidence.
