Expedition Learning Academy

Getting Started with Homeschooling: 5 Questions to Ask Yourself First

Getting Started with Homeschooling: 5 Questions to Ask Yourself First

Getting Started with Homeschooling: 5 Questions to Ask Yourself First  

Homeschooling is more than an educational decision; it’s an adventure that reshapes the way your child learns, grows, and connects with the world. At Expedition Learning Academy, we help families map a clear, confident path forward, because education should feel like a journey, not a guessing game. 

Whether you’re just beginning to explore homeschooling or preparing to file your Letter of Intent, here are five essential questions to ask yourself as you get started.  

1. What Are Your Educational Goals?  

Before picking a curriculum or creating a schedule, ask yourself: What do I want homeschooling to give my child (and our family)?  

  • More flexibility?  
  • A slower pace?  
  • A values-based approach?  
  • Support for special needs?  
  • Academic acceleration?  

The answers to these questions will shape every other decision you make.  

Clarity here helps you choose the best tools for your child’s journey.  

2. What Is Your Child’s Learning Style?  

Some kids thrive with textbooks and structure. Others need hands-on projects, movement breaks, or time to tinker and explore.  

Ask yourself:  

  • Does my child learn best by seeing, hearing, doing, or discussing?  
  • Do they need routine, or freedom to explore? 
  • What kind of environment helps them focus and feel confident?  

At Expedition Learning Academy, we believe learning should match the learner, not the other way around.  

Knowing your child’s style is like packing the right gear for the journey ahead.  

3. What Type of Structure Works for Your Family?  

Homeschooling isn’t one-size-fits-all. You can go full DIY, join a co-op or hybrid program, or outsource subjects you don’t feel confident teaching.  

Things to consider:  

  • How much time do you have to teach?  
  • Will you follow a traditional school year calendar?  
  • Are there subjects you’d prefer to outsource (math, science, writing)?  

We offer tutoring and subject-specific support for homeschoolers who want extra help while keeping learning at home.  

Build the map that works for your family’s rhythm, not anyone else’s.  

4. What Are Florida’s Homeschool Requirements?  

In Florida, homeschooling is flexible, but it still comes with responsibilities.

For traditional homeschooling and families with the FES-UA scholarship, you’ll need to:  

  • File a Letter of Intent with your district  
  • Maintain a portfolio of work  
  • Complete an annual evaluation (we can help with this!)  
  • Keep records of progress and learning  

The requirements for homeschooling families with the FES-PEP (Family Empowerment Scholarship – Personal Education Plan) are slightly different.  

  • Submit a Student Learning Plan annually.  
  • Withdraw from public school or terminate home education program with the district and enroll as a PEP student with Step Up For Students or an umbrella school.   
  • Take an annual Norm-Referenced Test.   

We guide families through every step, including growth evaluations, transcripts, and curriculum planning.  

The paperwork doesn’t have to feel overwhelming when you have the right guide.  

5. Who’s on Your Support Team?  

You don’t have to homeschool alone.  

Support can look like:  

  • Co-ops and enrichment groups  
  • Tutors or academic pods  
  • Evaluation and planning services  
  • A community that understands your goals  

At Expedition Learning Academy, we become part of your team, offering personalized guidance, curriculum advice, and expert support for whatever stage of your journey.  

Every successful expedition has a guide. We’re here to walk alongside you.  

Ready to Start Homeschooling with Confidence?  

We offer:  

  • Custom learning plans  
  • Annual evaluations  
  • Subject-specific tutoring  
  • Dual enrollment and high school planning  
  • Transition support for students with special needs  
  • Family Empowerment Scholarship Guidance (FES-US & FES-PEP)  

Every journey begins with a first step. Let’s take it together, reach out to schedule your free consultation today.  

About the author: Katrina is a veteran educator with over a decade of experience supporting families through tutoring, homeschool guidance, and post-secondary planning. She believes every student’s journey is unique, and with the right guidance, every learner can thrive.