Are you considering or ready to homeschool your child but feeling a bit uncertain? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! As seasoned homeschool moms, we understand the doubts and concerns that can arise when embarking on this educational journey. But fear not, we are here to help you navigate through your questions and provide encouragement every step of the way! Meet Maria & Nicole.

Through our informative podcasts, blog posts, daily inspiration, and a wide range of free printable tools, we aim to empower and assist you on your homeschooling journey. We believe in equipping you with valuable resources to make your homeschooling experience successful and enjoyable.

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What is homeschooling?

Homeschooling is a legal method of providing personalized instruction and support for your child’s learning needs, outside the confines of a traditional brick-and-mortar classroom. Typically facilitated by a parent, this approach to education allows you to tailor the learning experience to suit your child’s individual requirements. Many people choosing to homeschool need to take time to shift their views on and the ideas they have been taught about education. We find this especially difficult for our ex-public school teacher friends that have chosen to homeschool. To help you rediscover what education can mean to you and your family, visit What is a Homeschool Lifestyle?

Do I need to be a certified teacher to homeschool my child?

While it’s important to check the laws in your state, let me reassure you that, at present, teacher certification is not a mandatory requirement for homeschooling in the United States. However, some states do require some level of accountability or supervision. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the specific regulations in your area to ensure compliance. Check your State Homeschool Laws

Do I really have what it takes to homeschool my children?

Whether you’re a new homeschooler or have been homeschooling for years, every one of us has encountered fear and worry at some point. Learn how to Gain Confidence as a Homeschooler and building the confidence in yourself as we give you the tools you’ll need when you’re struggling and needing assurance.

Do I need a dedicated classroom space?

Creating a designated classroom space is not a prerequisite for homeschooling success. Although many homeschooling families do have a dedicated area for teaching, it’s entirely possible to provide an enriching educational experience without one. What truly matters is fostering an atmosphere for learning and finding a peaceful corner where your child can study without distractions. Remember, the world itself can be your classroom, offering limitless opportunities for exploration and discovery! See picture of our homeschool room through the years

How do I know what to teach my child?

While it’s crucial to follow your state’s educational requirements, remember to consider your child’s individual skill levels as well. If your child has been struggling in their current grade level or a particular concept, it’s perfectly acceptable to take a step back and revisit subjects they find challenging. If you’ve recently unenrolled your child from a traditional school environment, be sure to take time to Deschool. Don’t skip this crucial step!

Homeschooling allows you the flexibility to tailor their education to suit their specific strengths and weaknesses. On the other hand, if your child excels academically, homeschooling provides ample opportunities to challenge and engage them at a higher level or incorporate hands-on projects. Embrace the beauty of customization in homeschooling! Download your FREE PreK – 12th skills Checklist

How do I socialize my child?

Socialization is one of the biggest myths of homeschooling.  If anything, because we had a shorter school day and this more time for events/activities, I actually found we were too social and sometimes struggled to find time to get chores done at home! Learn more about Socialization and get your FREE Socialization Guide.

What if I need to teach a subject I struggle with or never learned?

Many homeschoolers encounter this situation at some point during their teaching journey. Don’t worry! There are many ways to overcome this challenge. Most curriculum come with scripted teacher guides so don’t let them accumulate dust on the bookshelf! You can also utilize online instruction or textbooks to fill in the gaps in your own knowledge. Additionally, you may find local brick and mortar a-la-cart classes or tutors. You can also enlist the help of other family members who have expertise in those subjects or join a homeschool co-op. Another wonderful approach is to learn alongside your child—a win-win situation that fosters a love of learning and strengthens your bond.

Will my house be overrun with science experiments?

Balancing homelife and homeschooling your kids can be challenging. Before many of us even started homeschooling, we may have already struggled to manage motherhood, your marriage or partner, housework, meals, work, adult friendships, and other commitments. Adding in homeschooling is just another level to an already high demand on your time. It might mean that something has to give. Learn 12 Ways to Balance Your Home and Homeschool.

Where can I find homeschooling resources and curriculum?

A simple Google search will reveal a plethora of suppliers catering to every subject under the sun. However, let us save you some time and effort. This page and podcast episode, 7 Steps to Choosing Homeschool Curriculum is an excellent starting point to help you begin to narrow down your search!

The internet is a wealth of information when it comes to educational materials. This resource will spare you the daunting task of sifting through countless products that don’t work for you or your children saving you time and money. We’ve created a Curriculum Guide to help narrow down the search. Keep in mind that what worked for a friend’s child may not be a good fit for you or possibly what worked for your older child may not be a fit for your younger child. We will help you to find the perfect curriculum for your entire family. We will be doing some curriculum unboxing so stay tuned as we show you pages of curriculum up close!

I have my curriculum and resources—what now?

Take a deep breath and trust your instincts. Remember, you have been teaching your child since the day they entered your family, and no one knows them better than you. Homeschooling is simply the next step in this journey. Don’t worry about making mistakes or feeling ill-equipped—we’ve all been there! Take time to review your materials thoroughly, read the provided instructions, and dive in. If you encounter challenges along the way (and trust me, we all do!), reach out to other homeschooling parents for support and assistance. Facebook groups and local homeschool groups are fantastic sources of information and encouragement.

What if my child is special needs?

You may be a parent that has considered or chosen to homeschool because your child has a learning disability or needs an accommodation to help them learn. You may have battled your school system for a curriculum suitable to accommodate them. You may have asked yourself, “Can I homeschool my child?” The answer is a resounding, “Yes!” Learn more about homeschooling a child with a learning difference

But what about high school and college?

Making a unique and personalized high school experience for each of them has been one of the coolest things – and you too can do that for your teenager! Doing so will offer an opportunity to not only equip them with everything they need for college or the workforce but also tailor their education to match their individual interests and passions. With our High School Series you can provide your children with a solid foundation and the necessary skills to thrive in life: at their 4-year universities, the workplace, and personally.

In conclusion

Pay attention to your child’s learning habits and style and adapt your teaching methods to suit their needs. Remember, homeschooling involves a lot of trial and error, and there’s no one-size-fits-all formula. Be patient with both your student and yourself as you explore the right path for your family. If something doesn’t work, keep an open mind and change it up! Homeschooling allows you the flexibility to do this so use this to your advantage. Rest assured that by working towards providing the best education for your child, you are destined success!

Embrace this wonderful journey. While uncertainties may linger, know that you have the love, dedication, and support needed to create an incredible educational experience for your child. You’re not alone—we’re all here cheering you on, ready to share our experiences and wisdom. You’ve got this!