Homeschooling Insights for New Families

Starting homeschooling can feel overwhelming, but after years of experience, I’ve learned a few things I wish I had known when I started. If you’re considering homeschooling, here are some key insights that might make your journey smoother.

1. Deschooling is Essential
(even if they haven’t been to traditional school)

If your child has been in traditional school, take time to deschool. This isn’t just about taking a break; it’s about shifting mindsets and allowing your child (and yourself) to adjust to a new way of learning. Traditional school and homeschooling are very different, and giving yourselves space to transition will help immensely.

Even if your kids have never been to traditional school, you still need to shift your own mindset. Many of us were raised to believe that learning only happens in structured, formal settings, and it can take time to unlearn that. Trust that your child is learning, even if it doesn’t look like your perception of school.

2. Curriculum is a Tool, Not a Rule

It’s easy to get caught up in finding the “perfect” curriculum, but no curriculum will be perfect for every child or subject. Be willing to adapt, mix and match, or even take a break if something isn’t working. You don’t have to finish every page of a workbook for learning to happen.

3. Your Homeschool Doesn’t Have to Look Like a Classroom

At first, I thought I needed a perfect homeschool setup—desks, whiteboards, and a structured schedule from 8 AM to 3 PM. The truth? Learning happens everywhere. Some kids do well at a desk; others learn best laying on the couch or outside. Find what works for your family.

My home is tiny (700 square feet for a family of 5!) most of our formal learning is done sprawled out on my bed. It’s not uncommon for my teenager and I to work together at 9pm after my younger kids are asleep. Don’t put your learning in a box.

4. Learning Happens in Unexpected Ways

Some of the best learning moments happen outside of planned lessons. Baking can teach fractions, playing board games can strengthen critical thinking, and everyday conversations help build vocabulary. Since we’re in the car a lot, we use that time to our advantage by having discussions, listening to podcasts/audiobooks, or by giving each other “math challenges”. Trust that learning is happening even when it doesn’t look traditional.

5. Your Child’s Needs Matter More Than a Schedule

It’s okay to take a day (or week, or month) off when your child is struggling (physically or mentally). It’s okay to move at their pace, even if it’s faster or slower than you expected. Is the weather really nice? Absolutely spend the day soaking it in. Is your partner on a nontraditional schedule? Prioritize your family time instead of a traditional monday through friday schedule. One of the biggest benefits of homeschooling is flexibility—use it to support your child’s well-being and interests.

6. The Right Community is Invaluable

Homeschooling can feel isolating if you don’t intentionally seek community. Find local homeschool groups, co-ops, or online spaces where you can connect with others. Having support makes a huge difference, especially on tough days.

Secular homeschooling (even more so for anti-racist, neurodivergent, and/or queer families) can make it even harder to find community. Don’t settle for community that isn’t affirming for your entire family. Your community doesn’t have to be homeschool specific or in person. An inclusive Navigator Scouting Group with some traditional schooling families might just be what your family needs. Your teen might blossom with their minecraft discord group. Make connections that work for your family.

7. You Don’t Have to Have It All Figured Out

I thought I needed to know everything before starting, but homeschooling is a learning process for both you and your child. You will adjust, grow, and find what works along the way. Give yourself grace.

Homeschooling isn’t about recreating school at home—it’s about creating an education that fits your child. If you’re just starting out, know that it’s okay to learn as you go. Trust yourself, trust your child, and embrace the journey!