Q: If I decide to take my child out of school, what do I do?

A: This depends entirely on the state in which you live. In Texas, it's very easy. You simply swing by the principal's office and say, "I'm taking him out...We're going to home school," but in other states it is a bit more official. Even in Texas, it would be wise to send a written note to the school documenting your decision.

To know for sure what your state requires, check the Home School Legal Defense Association site and look under Notice. That will tell you the procedure for notifying the school system in your state.

Q: How many children can you home school at one time?

A: In theory, you can home school all your children. It may be that the older ones work more independently than the little ones, or that you combine subjects where you can if you have a large family. Home schooling is often a way of life for large families and oddly enough, it can cut down on the confusion of keeping up with many different teachers' requirements. Do be sure that your older children have plenty of time for their own studies and don't become overly involved in teaching their younger siblings.