Your Guide Clarity, Confidence, and a Little More Peace
Choosing to homeschool is a big step—and a meaningful one. You’re opening the door to learning that fits your child, honors your family’s rhythm, and gives you the freedom to focus on what matters most.
To help you begin with confidence (and without feeling buried in tabs and paperwork), here’s a clear, practical guide built for families like yours—especially those who value tools that make life simpler, not more complicated.
1. Start With Your State’s Requirements
Before you pick curriculum or plan a schedule, it’s important to know what your state expects from homeschooling families. Every state is different, and understanding the rules upfront makes everything smoother.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Each state has its own laws and reporting requirements. You can look up yours here:
https://hslda.org/legal - Some states require an affidavit of intent.
- Some require standardized testing or evaluations.
- High school transcripts are always necessary, no matter where you live.
- Even in flexible states, keeping basic documentation is wise—it protects your child’s academic record and keeps you organized.
If you’re in Arizona: You’ll need to submit a notarized affidavit of intent and maintain certain records throughout the year.
2. Create a Plan That Supports Your Child—And You
A strong homeschool plan gives your family structure without taking away your freedom. It acts like a roadmap, giving clarity while still allowing room to breathe, adjust, and grow.
Start with an evaluation
Ask questions like:
- What is my child’s learning style?
- Where are they academically right now?
- What inspires them? What challenges them?
When you join StrongMind Homeschool, this part is handled for you. Our family intake includes a thoughtful assessment of learning style, academic level, interests, and goals—so you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Set meaningful goals
Think beyond grade levels:
- What skills does your child need this year?
- What brings them joy?
- What do you want to see more of in your homeschool—connection, curiosity, independence?
These goals help guide your choices and give your year purpose.
Choose your curriculum
This is where many families feel the weight of decision-making. With StrongMind, the process becomes lighter. You get:
- A complete, accredited curriculum
- Interactive digital lessons
- Built-in progress insights
- Personalized pathways that support how your child learns
It’s everything you need in one place—so you can focus less on researching and more on learning together.
Build a Routine With Flexibility and Flow
One of the greatest gifts of homeschooling is the ability to design a day that fits your family. Kids thrive when life has a rhythm—even a gentle one.
Consider:
- Anchoring certain subjects to parts of the day (ex: math in the morning, reading after lunch)
- Creating space for movement, creativity, and fresh air
- Using flexible blocks rather than strict hours
- Allowing room for rest, exploration, and real-life learning
Homeschooling doesn’t need to feel rushed or rigid. It can feel steady, calm, and deeply connected.
4. Keep Records That Support Your Child’s Journey
Documentation isn’t about checking boxes—it’s about capturing your child’s growth and keeping everything in one dependable place.
Here’s what’s helpful to maintain:
✔ Your Homeschool Plan
Your goals, curriculum choices, and yearly plan.
✔ Assessments and Work Samples
These help track growth and provide evidence if you ever need it.
✔ Required Documents
Affidavits, standardized test results, evaluations—anything your state asks for.
✔ Progress and Grades
StrongMind tracks these automatically with weekly insights, so you always know where your child stands.
✔ Extras and Enrichment
Tutoring, electives, books, field trips—everything that rounds out your child’s learning experience.
With StrongMind, much of this record-keeping is built into the platform, giving you peace of mind and a clear picture of your child’s progress all year long.
5. Use Tools That Make Homeschooling Easier
Families deserve support, not stress. StrongMind Homeschool is designed to take the pressure off your plate while keeping you in the driver’s seat.
You’ll get:
- Smart attendance tracking
- Interactive, standards-aligned curriculum
- Weekly progress snapshots
- Personalized learning recommendations
- Built-in filekeeping tools
- A complete, family-centered online experience
It’s homeschooling, simplified—so you can focus on the relationship, not the logistics.
You’re Not Doing This Alone
Homeschooling is a commitment, but it’s also an incredible opportunity. With the right support, you’ll create a learning environment where your child feels seen, capable, and excited to grow. And StrongMind is here to walk alongside you with clarity, care, and a system built to empower families.
