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Writer's pictureBlake Willard

Homeschooling Doesn’t Have to Be Your First Choice


Mother homeschooling her children

Homeschooling doesn’t have to be your first choice—but it might just be your best one.

For many parents, homeschooling wasn’t the plan. Maybe it wasn’t yours either. Today, however, homeschooling offers more than ever before—more resources, more support, and a cultural shift where it’s no longer seen as taboo. The truth is, while homeschooling can be easier and more effective now than it’s ever been, it’s also more necessary.


Why More Parents Are Turning to Homeschooling

Many parents find themselves facing a crossroads. Maybe you’re dissatisfied with the low quality of schools in your area, concerned about ideological agendas in public education, or simply seeking more freedom and flexibility for your family. Perhaps you’re skeptical of the traditional education system’s ability to serve your child’s unique needs. Whatever the reason, you’re not alone—more families are choosing homeschooling, even if it wasn’t their first choice.


Yet, with so many parents making the leap, the overwhelming amount of resources available can make it difficult to know where to start. It can feel like you’re expected to figure it all out overnight, and that’s scary. But it doesn’t have to be.


When I Left My Job as a Principal, I Discovered the Real Need for Professional Homeschool Guidance

When I transitioned from my role as a principal at a private Christian school to working directly with homeschooling parents, I realized that many families want to maintain the individualized benefits of homeschooling but need professional guidance to navigate the waters successfully. That’s why I’m here—to offer you the support and advice you need, whether this is your first time homeschooling or your tenth.


Parent consultation to discuss homeschooling
Introductory consultation to discuss homeschooling


Here’s the Truth: Curriculum Is Not as Important as You Think

When most parents begin homeschooling, their first instinct is to ask other homeschooling parents what they’re using and try to replicate it. While this is a common approach, it’s not the best one.


Homeschooling should be as unique as your family. What works for someone else might not work for you, and that’s okay. Before you start worrying about curriculum, focus on what matters most: your family’s mission, core values, and long-term goals.


Start with What’s Most Important: Your Family’s Core Values and Goals

Identifying and clarifying your family’s core values and goals should be your first step in the homeschooling journey. These will serve as your compass, guiding every decision you make, from choosing curriculum to setting daily routines. When you know what success looks like for your family, you can filter out resources that don’t align with your vision. Your values and goals bring the finish line into focus so you know what you are aiming at.


setting goals, completing the race, reach the finish line

Focus on Routines, Expectations, Schedule, and Learning Environment

Once you’ve established your family’s mission and goals, it’s time to focus on the practical aspects: routines, expectations, schedule, and learning environment. These foundational elements will have a far greater impact on your child’s education than any curriculum could.

Quality learning is built on consistent routines. A peaceful, distraction-free learning environment fosters more productive sessions. While subjects and materials may change, the routines you establish will shape your child’s habits for life.


I Often Spend Weeks with Families Just on These Foundations

When I start working with new homeschool families, we often spend the first several weeks focusing solely on these priorities. Believe it or not, this is similar to how traditional schools operate—little productive work is done in the first few weeks of the school year as students acclimate to new routines, expectations, and relationships. The difference with homeschooling is that you only need to set these foundations once, then make small adjustments over time. Your children’s routines, environment, and peer interactions will remain consistent, providing stability in their learning journey.


Ready to Start or Reset Your Homeschool Journey? Let’s Do It Together

If you’re considering homeschooling or need a fresh start with a better program, this is where I recommend beginning. But remember, you don’t have to go it alone.


If you want to create a homeschool program tailored specifically to your family’s needs but don’t have the time or expertise to figure it all out on your own, I’m here to help through the Homeschool Mastery Group.


We specialize in helping families articulate, design, and build the perfect homeschool program, offering ongoing coaching, courses, and support to ensure long-term success.


joyful family, mother homeschooling her children

Take the Next Step:

  • Ready to cut through the confusion and make a serious investment in your family’s education? Book a free initial consultation HERE to learn more about our program.


  • Looking for more encouragement and support? Join our FREE homeschooling community and connect with hundreds of other parents on this journey together.

    Join HERE

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