Making the Decision
Pulling your child from public school is a big decision, but families do it successfully every day. Common triggers include bullying, academic mismatch (too fast or too slow), special needs not being met, values conflicts, or simply wanting a different educational experience. Whatever your reason, know that you're joining millions of families who've made this same choice and thrived.
The Withdrawal Process
Every state has a different process for officially withdrawing your child. Some require written notification to the school district. Others require filing a Notice of Intent to Homeschool with the state. A few states require no notification at all. Request your child's academic records, test scores, and any IEP/504 documentation before withdrawing — schools are required to provide these. File all required state paperwork before or on the day of withdrawal.
The Deschooling Period
This is the most important and most overlooked step. Deschooling is a decompression period where your child (and you) let go of institutional school expectations. The general rule: one month of deschooling for every year your child was in school. During this time, don't push academics. Read together, play, explore, visit museums, cook, build things. Your child needs to rediscover their natural curiosity before structured learning begins. This isn't wasted time — it's essential groundwork.
- Don't start formal curriculum during deschooling — it defeats the purpose
- Let your child be bored. Boredom leads to creativity and self-directed exploration
- Read aloud together every day, even to older children
- Watch for what naturally interests your child — those interests will guide your curriculum choices
Managing Expectations
Your home will not look like a classroom, and it shouldn't. Homeschool takes far fewer hours than public school because you're teaching one-on-one without transitions, lunch lines, announcements, and behavior management. A full day of homeschool for elementary students is 2-3 hours. Don't try to fill 6 hours. Also expect an adjustment period — your child may resist at first, especially if school was stressful. Be patient and consistent.
Helping Your Child Adjust
Children who've been in school may initially miss friends, routine, and the social structure. Help them maintain existing friendships through playdates and activities. Find a homeschool co-op or group in your area for new connections. If your child was struggling academically, you may discover gaps that need filling — that's normal and easier to address one-on-one than in a classroom. Celebrate small wins and don't compare your first month to a seasoned homeschooler's Instagram.
Pavved Makes the Transition Smooth
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- Progress tracking helps you spot and fill academic gaps quickly
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I withdraw my child mid-year?
Yes. In most states, you can begin homeschooling at any point during the school year. File the required paperwork with your state and/or school district, and you can start immediately. Some states have specific timelines, so check your state's requirements.
How do I handle grade placement?
In homeschooling, grade levels are flexible guides rather than rigid rules. Your child might be working at 'grade level' in reading but ahead in math and behind in writing. Homeschooling lets you meet each child where they are in each subject, which is one of its greatest advantages.
What about special education services?
If your child had an IEP or 504 plan, you'll lose access to those school-provided services when you withdraw. However, many therapies and supports (speech, OT, tutoring) are available privately or through your state's early intervention programs. Some districts allow homeschooled students to access specific services — check your local policies.
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