I see posts for help all the time. While I'd love to reply to each one, it is time consuming and, although I'd love to be 'that person' that can spend her time mentoring you one-on-one, I can not. I have done it many times. I've done it through messenger, text, telephone conversations, and in person. I absolutely love it. However, I'm stretched pretty thin. So here is my best shot at writing a QUICK "How-to..." or think of it as a "DIY".
First thing is first. What state are you in? What are the laws in your state? The last thing you want to do is to get into trouble with the board of education for not doing something by the book. I would not rely on the board of education to be a reliable source of information because they are, quite honestly, overwhelmed with their own work. And as a homeschool family, we want to be knowledgeable and responsible for ourselves. You can find the laws for your state her: https://hslda.org/content/laws/
Second thing is second. Know your WHY? You're going to be challenged and asked a million questions about this decision. Know how you are going to answer. Know the reason you have chosen this lifestyle. I would caution you against homeschooling out of anger for the school system without having a positive reason for home education. For example, if you are upset that Johnny didn't make the gifted cutoff so you're pulling him out to homeschool that is not a very positive reason. However if you want to tailor Johnny's education to better meet his needs in science, that is a more positive view. The only exception to this I would say would be bullying. If your child is being bullied, pull him or her today. They can feel safe and secure with you at home.
Third, discover what you think homeschooling "looks like". Do you like textbooks? Does your child prefer workbooks? Does your child enjoy working with their hands? Would they enjoy creating a power point presentation? Do you like to get out of the house or stay indoors? You can choose all of the above when you homeschool. The library has a plethora of options in one stop. In fact, to begin with, I recommend that you do not spend any money the first few months or a semester until you figure out what the child's interests are, where they are struggling, and how much the library and the internet has to offer. I would also suggest researching some websites that will teach your child for free for a while. You can stick with these or move on without making that financial commitment.
Fourth, research the following terms: unit studies, unschooling, student-directed learning, and interest-based learning. These are methods that are not like traditional school setting, but they can be very effective in teaching and learning. Many students thrive with these methods even when they were struggling in traditional school settings. These methods allow a child to move around, think outside the box, go places, do things, explore, and more.
Fifth thing to remember is to relax and enjoy. No matter the reason that you have chosen to homeschool your child, this is a precious time. You have given them a gift and you have been given a gift - time with your child. Relax with them, talk to them, be silly with them, travel with them, love on them. Bake with them, clean with them, laugh with them, walk with them, cook meals with them. Read with them. Learn with them.
Next post will discuss support groups, community learning, and state organizations. For now, think about and post your WHY?