Everything a new homeschool family needs in one place — requirements, curriculum picks, a weekly schedule, and a step-by-step checklist.
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The Homeschool Starter Kit cuts through the noise so you can stop researching and start teaching.
A clear summary of what your state requires — attendance logs, subjects, assessments, and notification rules. Know exactly what you're legally required to do and what's optional.
The most trusted, family-tested curricula organized by grade level — from K through 8th grade. Each pick includes pricing, learning style fit, and key strengths.
A ready-to-use sample week showing how to structure subjects, breaks, and project time. Covers both structured and relaxed homeschool styles.
A sequenced checklist walking you from "I want to homeschool" to "we're officially started" — without missing a critical step or getting lost in the details.
Every state has different rules about what homeschool families must do. The table below shows the landscape across the US — from states with almost no requirements to states with strict oversight. Use it to understand where your state likely falls, then use our State Checker to get your exact requirements.
| Regulation Level | States (examples) | Typical Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Low | Texas, Oklahoma, Alaska, Idaho, Illinois | No notice required. No required subjects (or very broad). No standardized testing. No portfolio review. |
| Medium | California, Florida, Oregon, Colorado, Arizona | File a notice or affidavit with the state or district. Teach specific subjects. May require annual assessment (test or portfolio). |
| High | New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Vermont | Submit Individualized Home Instruction Plans (IHIP). Quarterly or annual reports. Standardized testing or portfolio review by a certified teacher. |
Compulsory age: Most states require homeschooling registration once your child turns 6–8. Children are typically exempt from compulsory attendance after age 16–18.
Required subjects: States that require subjects typically list: reading, math, language arts, social studies, science, and health. Electives are almost always at your discretion.
Portfolio review: Some states require you to keep a portfolio of your child's work (samples, reading logs, completed assignments) to demonstrate educational progress.
Notice of intent: Some states require you to notify your local school district or the state education department before beginning homeschooling.
The curriculum market is overwhelming — hundreds of options, each with devoted fans. These picks are the most consistently recommended by homeschool families across learning styles and budgets.
Orton-Gillingham-based phonics program. Highly structured, multi-sensory, and effective for all learning styles including dyslexic learners. Often called the gold standard for early reading.
Mastery-based math using hands-on manipulatives. Strong for visual-spatial learners. Each level sticks with one concept until mastered before moving on — less overwhelming than spiral programs.
Narrative-driven world history told chronologically over 4 volumes. Covers ancients through modern history. Beloved for its engaging storytelling style — kids actually want to hear the next chapter.
Structured writing program that teaches note-taking, outlining, and essay writing through a systematic process. Consistently top-rated for teaching writing skills that translate to college and beyond.
Free, self-paced online learning for K–12. Exceptional for math and science. Works well as a supplement or as a primary curriculum for families needing flexibility and low cost.
Not sure which curriculum fits your child's learning style? Take the Curriculum Matcher Quiz →
This is a sample schedule for an elementary-age child (grades 2–5). Adjust the subject order and timing to fit your family's rhythm. Most homeschool families find mornings work best for focused academics and afternoons for projects, co-ops, and free exploration.
Key principle: Homeschool days are typically 3–5 hours of focused work — not 6–7 hours like traditional school. Efficiency beats duration.
Follow these steps in order. Each one builds on the last. Most families get through all 10 steps in 2–3 weeks.
Before anything else, know what the law requires in your state. Use the NestEd State Checker to get the exact rules — filing requirements, subjects, and assessment options.
About 28 states require you to notify the school district or state before starting. This is usually a simple form or letter. Do it before withdrawing your child from public school.
If your child currently attends public school, submit a withdrawal letter to the school. Keep a copy. They may ask for your notice of intent — have it ready.
Are they a visual, auditory, or kinesthetic learner? Do they prefer structure or flexibility? This shapes every curriculum decision you'll make. Take the Curriculum Matcher quiz if you haven't already.
Classical, Charlotte Mason, unschooling, eclectic, or school-at-home? You don't need to commit permanently — most families settle into an eclectic approach. But having a starting direction helps you choose curriculum.
Start with math and language arts — these are the two non-negotiables. Add history and science once you have a rhythm. Use the curriculum picks in this kit (Section 2) as a starting point.
You don't need a dedicated room — a consistent spot at the kitchen table works fine. What matters: minimal distractions, supplies within reach, and a space your child associates with learning time.
Use the weekly schedule template in this kit (Section 3) as a starting draft. Adjust after your first 2 weeks — you'll quickly learn when your child is most focused and what time blocks work for your family.
Even if your state doesn't require it, keep basic records: a daily log of what you covered, samples of completed work, and any test results. A Google Doc or simple binder works great to start.
Connect with local homeschool co-ops, Facebook groups, or curriculum fairs. Homeschool isolation is real — community keeps you going through hard weeks. Search "[your city] homeschool co-op" to find local groups.
Use NestEd's free tools to check your state's exact requirements and find your perfect curriculum match in 5 minutes.