12 Homeschooling Tips Every Mom Needs to Know
Maria Manfredi |
Homeschooling can feel overwhelming at times, especially when you’re trying to juggle all the hats a mom wears. But the truth is, it doesn’t have to be perfect for you and your child to thrive. Whether you’re just starting out or need a fresh perspective, here are 12 tips to help you succeed as a modern homeschooler.
1. Throw All Your Perfectionism Out the Window
Let’s be real—homeschooling is as much about learning flexibility as it is about the ABCs. The days when everything is running smoothly are great, but not every day will be like that, and that’s okay! Don’t let perfectionism hold you back. Deep breaths, and remind yourself why you started.
2. Find Support from Your Network
Look around your community—your neighbors, church, or social network. Chances are, you’re not alone in this journey. Other homeschooling moms, or even people who have homeschooled before, can be a great resource for advice and encouragement.
3. Take Advantage of Local Resources
Many communities offer free or low-cost classes for kids of all ages. Check your local parks and recreation websites to find toddler activities or classes for older children. It’s a great way to get out of the house and add some variety to your week. We also love going to the local garden center to talk about and see the plants. Another favorite on a rainy day is visiting your local pet store, or local book store.
4. Join Homeschool Mom Groups Online
The online world is full of homeschool communities where moms come together to share advice, lesson plans, and encouragement. Facebook, Instagram, and even dedicated homeschool forums can connect you with others who understand the highs and lows of homeschooling.
5. Customize Your Curriculum or Go Remote
You don’t have to follow a traditional curriculum. Build something that fits your family’s needs or explore local remote school options. The freedom to design a learning plan that works for you is one of the greatest benefits of homeschooling.
6. Be Okay with “Survivor Mode” Days
Some days you’ll feel like a homeschool rockstar—meals prepped, laundry done, learning flowing smoothly, and your child mastering a new skill. Other days, you might be in survival mode, and your field trip might just be to the grocery store or a walk to the mailbox. For older kids, it might mean learning through an educational YouTube video or watching an animated Bible series.
One of my favorite tasks for my oldest is research projects. Kids ask a lot of questions! So, I have them search for the answers first (I point them to appropriate sources to look), then come back to me with their thoughts, and we discuss. Give yourself grace on those days.
7. Go at Your Own Pace
I had grand plans of transforming my daughter’s room into a full-blown learning center. Two months into homeschooling, it’s still not perfect, and that’s okay. Don’t rush the process. Find what works for you and your child, and allow yourself room to evolve.
8. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Homeschooling can be a lot for one person to handle. Don’t be shy about asking for help from your husband, family, or friends. For instance, when we decided I’d be the primary educator during the day, I realized we needed a few extra supplies. My mother-in-law graciously bought us a toddler table, which created a much-needed workspace for my daughter.
9. Balancing Homeschool and Work as a Stay-at-Home Entrepreneur
Being a stay-at-home entrepreneur means juggling homeschooling with client work and consulting—often remote. I make my own schedule, which gives me the flexibility to work around my kids’ needs most of the time. But there are moments when my husband has to step in—like during his lunch break or after work—so I can sneak away to my office and churn out some work before dinner. It’s all about balance and flexibility.
10. Meal Prep to Stay Sane
I thrive on spontaneity, but in this phase of life, preparation is everything. Sundays are my meal prep days, where I get ahead for the week. I boil chicken for fresh homemade chicken salad, prep eggs for quick morning protein, and make the kids protein muffins or another special treat. I also get a head start on dinner ideas for the week, which helps the week run much more smoothly—and keeps me from getting cranky. Plus, the kids help out, which teaches them valuable cooking skills and gives us some fun, messy family time jamming out to Christian rap.
11. Utilize Free Tools
Take advantage of the countless free resources available. ChatGPT can help generate lesson plans or provide inspiration for activities. Pinterest is also packed with homeschooling ideas and age-appropriate curricula. There are endless options for creating a customized and budget-friendly education experience.
12. Check Milestones, But Be Flexible
I often check milestones on the CDC’s website to gauge what skills my child should be working on at her age. For example, at 18 months, she should be learning to do “X.” These guidelines can help you plan activities, but remember, every child learns at their own pace. Be flexible and tailor your curriculum to your child’s individual needs. For us, faith is also an important part of our learning process, and we incorporate that into our homeschool journey.
Homeschooling isn’t about perfection. It’s about creating a learning environment that suits your family and allows your child to grow in their own time. Every day is a new adventure, and by embracing flexibility, you’re giving your child the best gift of all—an education built on love, patience, and the freedom to learn at their own pace.
