How to Start Homeschooling in Illinois: A 2025 Guide for New Homeschool Families

Starting Homeschooling in Illinois: A 2025 Guide for New Homeschool Families

If you’re considering homeschooling in Illinois in 2025, welcome to one of the most rewarding adventures you can embark on with your kids! As a homeschooling mom myself, I know the questions swirling in your head: Where do I start? Can I really do this? Will my kids thrive? Spoiler alert: You can, and they will!

Our homeschooling journey began back in 2019 when our oldest son started half-day Kindergarten. Like many families, we dipped our toes into traditional schooling, but when Covid hit in 2020, everything changed. Suddenly, we were thrown into schooling at home, and you know what? We realized how doable—and even fun—it was. That year, our dining room turned into a classroom, and our afternoons became a time to explore interests, play games, and grow as a family. We’ve never looked back, and now I’m here to encourage you as you take this brave, beautiful step.

The Basics of Homeschooling in Illinois

The good news? Illinois is one of the most homeschool-friendly states. Here’s what you need to know to get started:

1. No Notice Required: In Illinois, you don’t have to register or notify anyone to start homeschooling. Your homeschool is considered a private school, giving you full freedom to teach your children as you see fit.

2. What to Teach: The state requires you to teach certain subjects: language arts, math, biological and physical sciences, social sciences, fine arts, and physical development/health. But how you teach these is entirely up to you.

3. Record-Keeping: While it’s not legally required, keeping good records is a great idea. You might want to log your child’s progress, keep samples of their work, and jot down a quick daily or weekly schedule.

4. Joining the Community: Illinois has a thriving homeschool community with co-ops, support groups, and events. You don’t have to do this alone! Connecting with other families will give you ideas, encouragement, and friends for both you and your kids.

How to Get Started

1. Find Your “Why”: Your reason for homeschooling will be your anchor on tough days. For us, it was about reclaiming time with our kids, instilling our faith and values, and giving them the freedom to learn at their own pace.

2. Unschool for a Period: Take some time to explore your child's interests and re-connect before committing to a curriculum.

3. Choose Your Curriculum: The options are endless, which is exciting but can also feel overwhelming. If you’re just starting, keep it simple. Many families find that a mix of structured curriculum and interest-led learning works best.

4. Set a Rhythm: Homeschooling doesn’t have to look like traditional school. Whether you thrive with a detailed schedule or prefer a flexible routine, find what works for your family. And remember—there’s no such thing as a perfect homeschool day.

5. Take Small Steps: When we first started, I felt the pressure to get everything right from the beginning. But homeschooling is a journey, and it’s okay to start small. Focus on the basics, and the rest will fall into place.

A Word of Courage for New Homeschool Moms

Let me tell you something, mom-to-mom: You can do this.

I know how scary it feels to take the leap into homeschooling. I remember those first days of questioning myself and wondering if I was capable. But homeschooling is less about being perfect and more about being present. Your kids don’t need a supermom—they need you.

Homeschooling is an opportunity to nurture your kids’ unique gifts, create lifelong memories, and strengthen your family’s bond. You’ll have days where it feels like everything is falling apart, but you’ll also have days where you watch your child’s eyes light up with understanding, and it will all be worth it.

The Illinois Homeschool Resource Center is here to help you! That's why we've developed a Quick Start Guide to Homeschooling in Illinois. It includes information, a start up checklist, sample schedule, resources, and more! Download it for free below:

Download the Homeschool Quick-Start Guide

Your Homeschooling Journey Awaits

Starting homeschooling is a courageous decision, and it’s one you won’t regret. I’ve been where you are, and I’m here to tell you: the road ahead is full of joy, growth, and surprises.

If you ever feel overwhelmed, remember this: you’re not alone. There are thousands of homeschooling families across Illinois cheering you on, and I’m one of them. So, take a deep breath, grab a cup of coffee, and start this amazing journey with confidence. You’ve got this!

Have questions or need support? Drop a comment below or reach out—I’d love to connect. 💛

Happy homeschooling,

Rebekah Schwind

Homeschool Mom and Founder, Illinois Homeschool Resource Center