Editor’s note: This week’s guest post is written by Mandy Davis, a former school principal-turned-homeschool-mom of three who uses her platform, @homebuilteducation, to share resources on and debunk myths about homeschooling. She shares her 5 tips with Starglow families on what she wishes she knew that first year before she considered homeschooling her kids:

As a former school principal who transitioned to homeschooling, my journey from a structured school environment to the freedom of home education has been both challenging and rewarding. Each day brings new insights and reaffirms my decision to take this less traveled road. Whether you're merely curious or firmly on the path to homeschooling your child or children, knowing these five things beforehand can equip you with the mindset and tools needed to thrive from the start:

1. Homeschooling is not just school at home

One of the first realizations that hits many new homeschooling parents is that homeschooling is not merely a replication of school in the comfort of your home. The beauty of homeschooling lies in its flexibility and the ability to tailor educational experiences to fit your child’s unique needs, interests, and pace. Unlike traditional schools, your day doesn't need to start with a bell nor end with homework. This means you can explore learning in various environments and formats, making education a part of your daily life rather than learning according to a separate, rigid schedule.

2. Environment is more important than curriculum 

In traditional schooling, the curriculum often drives the education process. In homeschooling, however, the environment you create is far more significant. A nurturing, stimulating, and secure environment can enhance learning more deeply than any high-end curriculum can achieve. This shift in focus from strictly academic content to creating a loving, engaging, and responsive environment can lead to better educational outcomes and a more enjoyable experience for both you and your child.

3. School ‘stress’ is different than homeschool ‘stress’

It's easy to fall into the trap of swapping school pressures (tests, grades, compliance with set standards) with homeschool pressures (over-scheduling, advancing too quickly, or adhering strictly to curriculums). Homeschooling should ideally be about learning at a pace that suits your child, exploring new interests, and taking time to delve deeply into subjects that fascinate them. Give yourself and your child the permission to slow down and find joy in learning, rather than transplanting the stress of traditional schooling into your home.

4. Socialization happens differently, and that’s ok

Many new homeschoolers worry about their kids interacting with other kids, but it's important to understand that social skills can be developed in many ways outside of a traditional classroom setting. Homeschoolers often engage in group classes, sports, community activities, and other events that offer diverse social opportunities. Plus, these interactions typically include a wider age-range of participants and are more reflective of real-world social settings than those within a school environment. Encouraging your child to interact in these out-of-the-box activities can promote a broader social understanding and better prepare them for adulthood.

5. The biggest transformation will be you

Perhaps the most profound homeschooling lesson of all is recognizing how much you as the parent-educator will change throughout this process. Homeschooling is not just an educational choice but a lifestyle that influences your entire family dynamic. It challenges your views on education, success, and what learning should look like. You’ll likely find that as you teach, you learn alongside your children, rediscovering curiosity and joy in learning that you might not have realized you'd lost.

As you embark on this homeschooling journey, it's essential to embrace the flexibility and personal growth that comes with it. The transition from traditional schooling to homeschooling isn't just about changing where and how your children learn—it's about transforming your approach to education and life. Homeschooling can enrich your life in so many ways, forging bonds and memories that last a lifetime. Every homeschooling experience is unique, which is what makes it so special. Embrace the challenges and the changes, and you'll discover just how rewarding this path can be!

Editor’s note (again): You can’t just withdraw your child from school if you decide to homeschool. Homeschooling laws vary by state, so be sure to check your state regulations before making the switch.

Mandy Davis is a former school-principal-turned-homeschool-mom who’s passionate about empowering parents to take charge of their children's education. She believes in the power of parents to create impactful, personalized learning experiences that help children thrive beyond the traditional classroom. Follow her on instagram @homebuilteducation or at homebuilteducation.com.

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