Homeschooling a Little One: Where We Started
Updated July 2026 · 6 min read
When we first decided to homeschool, I felt equal parts excited and completely overwhelmed. There is so much information out there that it is easy to freeze. What helped me most was starting small and simple.
If you are at the very beginning and not sure where to even start, here is exactly what we did and the beginner-friendly things that made it click for us.
Our first simple steps
Start with reading together
Before any curriculum, we just read. A good stack of picture books builds so much, and it is the gentlest, sweetest way to begin.
Shop my picks →Learn through play
At this age, play is the work. Counting bears, letter puzzles, and simple games taught more than any worksheet at first.
Shop my picks →Add short letter and number practice
Once reading was a habit, we added tiny bits of letters and numbers. A few minutes a day, kept light and fun.
Shop my picks →Follow their curiosity
When my daughter got obsessed with bugs, we did bugs. Leaning into what they love keeps the spark alive and makes it feel like discovery, not school.
Shop my picks →Beginner-friendly supplies
An all-in-one starter workbook
A single gentle workbook gave me a loose path to follow so I was not guessing what came next.
Shop my picks →Alphabet and number manipulatives
Hands-on letters and counters make abstract ideas concrete for little learners. We use ours constantly.
Shop my picks →A big pack of picture books
Honestly the best investment. A rich book basket does more early learning heavy-lifting than anything else.
Shop my picks →Shop this post
All my picks from this post rounded up in one spot on my Amazon storefront.
See my Amazon picks → As an Amazon Associate I may earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.Frequently asked questions
What age did you start homeschooling?
We eased in during the early years with play-based learning. At this age it is less about formal lessons and more about curiosity, books, and simple routines.
Do I need a full curriculum to begin?
Not right away. We started with books, play, and a simple workbook. You can add a structured curriculum once you find your footing and know what fits your child.
How do I know if they are learning enough?
Watch for curiosity and small wins, like recognizing letters or counting further than last week. Progress at this age is steady and gentle, not measured by tests.
Janet
Orlando mom and homeschooler behind Planet Janet TV. I share the real finds, routines, and deals I actually use. Come say hi on Instagram.
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