A homeschool convention is more than book sales. Larger conventions have vendor workshops and special speakers that can be a great source of inspiration and guidance.
You may also talk to vendors who can answer your questions and help you determine which curriculum to use.

Attend a homeschool convention

When you start to home educate, the logistics can seem overwhelming.
However, some homeschooling basics will help you to get up and running as stress free as possible.

New to homeschooling

Homeschoolers have a great deal of freedom when it comes to scheduling. It may take a while to find what works best for your family.
Tips to consider.
<ul>
<li>When do your children work best - early in the morning or later in the day?</li>
<li>Your spouse&#39;s work schedule.</li>
<li>Outside classes and commitments.</li>
</ul>

The basics of scheduling

There is a vast array of options, and it&#39;s easy to overspend and still not find the right fit.
While you decide, use free printables and your local library, or consider a used curriculum or creating your own.

Select a homeschool curriculum

Just remember to check your state&#39;s homeschool laws so that you know the right way to withdraw your children from school.
Don&#39;t feel you have to start a curriculum immediately. Use your library or online resources while you find the right homeschool curriculum choice for your children.

It is possible to begin mid-year

It is important to know and follow the homeschool laws and requirements of your state. Some states are more heavily regulated.
Make sure you understand what is required of you to withdraw your child from school and begin homeschooling.

Understand homeschool laws

There are many factors to consider if homeschooling is right for you. 
Some factors include:
<ul>
<li>The time commitment.</li>
<li>The pros and cons of homeschooling based on your family&#39;s needs.</li>
<li>Your spouse and child&#39;s opinions about homeschooling.</li>
</ul>
Talk to other homeschooling families. Consider attending a homeschool support group meeting in your area.

Make the decision to homeschool

Do all you can to ensure that you start on a positive note.
<ul>
<li>If your student is transitioning from public school, you&#39;ll want to allow time for everyone to adjust.</li>
<li>Be willing to learn from the mistakes of veteran homeschooling parents.</li>
<li>Trust your own intuition regarding your children.</li>
<li>Find a support group. Members can often help with choosing a curriculum, what&#39;s required for record-keeping, state homeschool laws, and providing opportunities and activities for your children.</li>
</ul>

Start strong

There are many homeschooling methods available. Finding the right style may take some trial and error.
You may find that some aspects of one method combined with another approach may work for your family—for instance, a Charlotte Mason method with unit study techniques. Be open to experiment and find what works for your family.

Understand homeschool methods

It is important to keep good records of your child&#39;s homeschool years. Records can be as easy as a daily journal or as complex as a computer program or notebook system.
Your state may require progress reports, a record of grades, or a portfolio. However, many parents enjoy keeping records as keepsakes of their children&#39;s homeschooling years.

The basics of record-keeping

Discover the 10 basic steps to successfully start homeschooling. Learn about homeschool curriculum, support groups, laws, and record keeping.

Understand homeschool methods

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