Before Day One A Calm, Practical Guide to Starting Homeschooling

For parents who are thinking about homeschooling, or who have just decided, and don't know where to begin.

You don't have to figure it all out today

Homeschooling advice is everywhere, and much of it contradicts the rest. This book takes the big questions one at a time, in an order that makes sense, and helps you build a plan that fits your own family.

By the last page, you'll have:

  • a clear picture of what homeschooling is, and whether it suits your family
  • a way to find out the rules where you live, with examples from the United States, Australia and France
  • honest answers to the big worries, like qualifications, friends and the future
  • a simple approach, routine and set of priorities that you chose yourself
  • a one-page starter plan, and a gentle plan for your first two weeks

Along the way, you'll follow seven very different families, and find clear notes on what research does, and doesn't, show.

The free Companion Workbook

Every checklist, planning page and journal prompt from the book, in one printable workbook. Fill it in on paper or on a tablet, and reprint pages for each child or each new term.

Get the book

Available as an e-book from major online stores.

About LJ Matters

LJ Matters is the pen name of a parent who has spent years raising a family across more than one country, and who has seen firsthand how differently families approach education from one culture to the next.

LJ Matters writes calm, practical books for parents who want to make thoughtful choices about their children's education.

Coming next

The First 30 Days of Homeschooling picks up where Before Day One leaves off, with week-by-week support for your first month.

Sign up for the free workbook to hear when it's available.