Why We Chose HSLDA (and Why You Might Want To, Too)
When we decided to homeschool, I was equal parts excited and overwhelmed. I had notebooks full of curriculum options, a Pinterest board full of printable morning menus… and a heart full of questions I wasn’t quite sure how to answer.
“Am I even allowed to do this?”
“What are the actual laws in my state?”
“What if someone questions our decision?”
That’s when I found HSLDA—the Home School Legal Defense Association—and let me just say: it was like a sigh of relief I didn’t know I needed.
What is HSLDA?
HSLDA is a nonprofit organization that advocates for homeschool freedom across the U.S. and around the world. But for everyday families like ours, they’re something even more powerful: a legal safety net and a support team that truly understands homeschooling.
They offer:
Legal representation and counsel (just in case it’s ever needed)
Templates for state forms and compliance
Educational consultants to walk with you through planning
Discounts, transcripts, report cards, and more
Why We Joined (And plan to renew each year)
Here’s what made it a no-brainer for us:
🤎Peace of Mind
Homeschooling is legal in all 50 states, but the rules vary a LOT. HSLDA knows the law in every state and helped me feel confident I was doing everything by the book.
🤎Real Legal Protection
If any question ever came up—from a school district or well-meaning family member—I knew we had support. I wasn’t alone in the unknown.
🤎Help With Hard Things
We’ve reached out to their consultants with testing questions, recordkeeping help, and even a few "Am I doing this right?" emails. They’re kind, knowledgeable, and get it.
🤎Community & Confidence
There’s something about knowing you’re backed by people who’ve walked this road before. That kind of support can be hard to find—and it matters.
Who Should Consider HSLDA?
Honestly? I think every homeschool family should at least explore it—especially if:
You’re new and navigating state rules for the first time
You’ve pulled your child out mid-year
You live in a state with more oversight or reporting
You just want to homeschool with a little less worry
It’s one of those small investments that offers big comfort.
Is It Worth the Cost?
As a budget-conscious homeschool mom, I get it: everything adds up. But HSLDA offers:
Yearly memberships (often discounted through groups or co-ops)
Scholarships and grants for those who qualify
And truly—when I compare it to the peace it brings, it’s worth every penny
Final Thoughts
Homeschooling is brave and beautiful—but it’s also full of questions. And while I can’t guarantee we’ll always get everything right, I do know this: we don’t have to figure it all out alone.
HSLDA has been a trusted guide for our family, and I’m genuinely grateful for their presence in our homeschool story. If you’re curious, check them out. Even just reading their getting-started guides can calm your nerves and point you in the right direction.
Visit HSLDA’s Website
(Not an affiliate—just a thankful mom.)
Want More Encouragement Like This?
If you are just getting started and need a list of resources to help you on your journey — I have just the thing. Download my Homeschooling Resource Guide. It has all the resources I used when I got started and gave me the confidence to keep going.
Are you considering a mid-year switch? I’d love to hear your story or pray for you—comment below or download my free guide.”
