While many new to homeschooling view it as a difficult educational choice, it is actually one of the easiest school choice options for families.

Most who simply inquire or mull over the possibility of homeschooling seek step-by-step, to-the-point instructions on how to begin the process of starting a homeschool. The following are five sure-proof steps to begin homeschooling your child.

1. Know your state's homeschool law! This cannot be stressed enough. Sometimes parents who are in a bind with their child's education decide on the fly to take them out of school and homeschool them without first complying with their state's law. This is dangerous because school authorities may declare your child habitually truant and may charge you with not sending your child to school.

To avoid all of these possibilities, make sure you know and understand your state's law and abide by it fully. Some state's laws are more lenient than others while other states are more regulated. Whatever the case, know your state's law before you even think about and lay plans for homeschooling. Contact your state home school organization to learn the ins and outs of the law.

2. Talk to your child about your decision. Although as a parent you make the ultimate decision over your child's education be sure to reassure her that life doesn't end because she'll be schooled at home. Barring any negative peers your child may have, make sure she understands every effort will be made to keep her in touch with her friends. It is important as a parent that you make the transition as smooth as possible from traditional education to home education.

3. Decide upon the type of curriculum you'll use. There are so many curricula out there that it's sometimes hard to find out which one is best for your child. If need be, take your child to a testing site and get him evaluated to get healthy suggestions and ideas about how best to teach him. While as a parent you probably know his inherent strengths and weaknesses, a skills test will be able to help you fully determine where your child should be or whether your child is advanced and needs accelerated learning in a certain area.

4. Make a schedule for your child. Although homeschooling is a wonderful way for parents to teach their children a genuine love of learning through a relaxed and leisurely teaching style, you still need to instill structure in your homeschool. As mentioned above, some states require more homeschool regulation so, depending upon where you live,  you may have to homeschool under an umbrella group or have to keep a detailed portfolio of your child's progress. A schedule will help you keep your child advancing on schedule and achieving in his studies. A schedule will also help your child know what to expect and what is expected of him.

5. Have fun! Use homeschooling as an opportunity to make your family closer and as a sterling opportunity to give your child a great education. Take field trips -- both near and far. Bust out of the box and create unconventional ways of teaching your children. With homeschooling the sky's the limit. Be creative.

January 2006