So you've decided to home educate your child, but you just don't know where to start. I've created a list that I think will help you for the beginning.

1. Different states have different homeschooling laws. Check any search engine for "homeschooling laws in XY". You will find out whether or not your child needs to be registered, how often you have to go through standardized testing, and such things. Knowing the law in your state will be vital for you.

2. Find a support group. Homeschoolers can be found anywhere. Yahoogroups, Meetup, you name it. When you sign up for the group, ask questions about classes, coops, play dates, field trips especially for home schooled kids in the area.

3. Go to the library and find books on the subject. There are so many good books. Marry Griffith has a couple of really good books, but also John Holt. But you'll really want to decide for yourself. Your library will likely carry one of the Homeschooling Magazines as well. Check them out and subscribe to them, if you like them.

4. Don't fret about curriculum. Many homeschoolers go through a process called de-schooling, because their kids are simply overwhelmed with homeschooling after coming from a public school setting. They'll want guidance on what to do, when to do it and how. They haven't learned how to learn and have fun too. Plus, I don't know of many homeschoolers who use just one curriculum all the way through. Most of them will choose a writing program here, a math program there, and a science program from another place. Some don't use any curriculum at all. You'll learn to watch your kids and recognize their learning style. And if you decide not to use a curriculum at all, simply encourage them to find something they're passionate about and provide materials, field trips and such things.

5. Don't be scared that you can't do it. You can!! No matter what your mother-in-law, your neighbor, or your sister's best friend say. Homeschooling is not rocket science.

6. Use that trusty old search engine for free homeschooling material. You'll be amazed at the abundance of information on the world wide web.

7. Stop worrying about socialization. Homeschooled children are generally not at home. They'll be in coops, they'll volunteer, they'll join sports classes, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Campfire or other organizations. They'll meet plenty of other homeschoolers in the area. And the beauty is, they'll get along with kids of all ages. Older kids play with younger kids. Socialization, as you'll soon find out is the dreaded "S" question among homeschoolers, that will make your toe nails roll up or it'll make you smile. And eventually you won't even want to answer that question any longer. :)

8. Find which book stores, office supply stores etc. give home educator discounts, and what kind of proof they are asking for. You'll be surprised at how many places will give you an educator's discount card, that saves you up to 20% of every purchase you make for your homeschool. If you live in a state that doesn't require registration, simply say so at the bookstore, and they'll usually give you a card anyway.

9. Network, network, network.

10. Buy a stash of chocolate. No, not for the kids... For yourself. You'll need it.

These tips should help you get started. Yes, it's still a lot of work and research, but you'll get through it, and then enjoying the ride will be so much easier.