Bursting The Bubble on Homeschool Myths
Just the word itself can conjure up a lot of misconcepted ideas and images. As a homeschool mom, I’ve heard my fair share of well-meaning (and not-so-well-meaning) comments and questions over the couple of years I have been homeschooling. I wish I could say I am a pro at confrontation about these homeschool myths and misconceptions in person, but I am not. The least I can do is research, and collect all the facts in hopes they do not leave me the moment I am confronted.
Today, I’m here to address some of the most common homeschool myths and misconceptions. Let’s burst the bubble on these shall we?
Myth #1: You need a degree to homeschool.
This is perhaps one of the most common homeschool myths I hear on a regular. It’s simply not true. While some regions might have specific requirements, generally, a university teaching degree or childhood education/development degree (or any degree for the matter) is not a prerequisite for homeschooling your children. Think about it: Who taught you to eat? Who was there when you took your first steps? Who taught you to tie your shoe laces? Parents have been educating their children for millennia without formal teaching credentials. There are certainly enough well known people who made it into history books who were homeschooled by a parent without an education degree. (Keep an eye on my blog post “Famous People Who Were Homeschooled” coming soon.
What you do need is a willingness to learn alongside your child, to research resources, and to be dedicated to their education.
Myth #2: You need to be patient to homeschool.
If patience were a prerequisite, I’d be out of the homeschooling game so fast! There will be days of meltdowns (theirs and yours!), frustration, and tears. Through the hardships in homeschooling we are tested and purified.
I like to remind myself ” We cannot grow our patience without having it tested ” In this was we are refined, purified, and molded into what God has for us.
I am naturally an impatient person, but if I look back to my pre-child self, I see growth. That pre-mama me, would think I am a very patient person.
Verse that help me:
- Ephesians 4:2
- Galations 5:22
- Proverbs 14:29
- Romans 12:12
- Galations 6:9
- Isaiah 48:10
- Isaiah 64:8
When you are tempted to lose patience, take a moment to remember how patient God is with you. Sometimes we lay higher expectations on our children than we do for ourselves. Then analyze: “Is it me or them?” are my timelines, goals, sleep deprivations, over stimulation getting the better of me? “Can we learn this differently or do we need a break and come back to it?”
Myth #3: You need to have a dedicated homeschool room.
While a dedicated space can be lovely, it’s far from necessary. For us it is more practical that our “classroom” is in living spaces kitchen table, living room floor, the porch for reading. We even take lessons on road trips. Learning can happen anywhere! What’s more important than a designated room is creating an atmosphere conducive to learning – one that’s comfortable, stimulating, and free from excessive distractions. Embrace flexibility and let learning spill over into every corner of your home (and beyond!).
I will add that having a dedicated and organized space for your homeschool supplies is crucial for successful homeschooling. It will be easier to plan and gather supplies and save you much time searching for materials. It does not need to be fancy, it could be a simple cupboard or shelf.
Myth #4: Homeschool is expensive.
It can be, but it certainly doesn’t have to be. There are incredible free and low-cost resources available: your local library, educational websites, open-source curricula, nature exploration, community programs, and even everyday life experiences. Our most valuable learning tools are often free – books, conversations, and curiosity.
You can tailor your budget to your needs.
If you are looking into purchasing curricula, look into facebook marketplace, poshmark, and local facebook groups for other homeschoolers selling off their unused or gently used materials. Your check out thrift stores as they can have a gem or two available.
To boost engagement and advertise some curriculas do giveaways, be sure to look out for those as you prepare to homeschool.
One of the more affordable homeschool curriculums is The Good and The Beautiful, it is faith-based and offers lots of different options
Myth #5: You need to have a lot of money to homeschool.
Building on the last point, you don’t need a hefty bank account to provide a rich homeschooling experience. While some families choose to invest in specific curricula or enrichment activities, many homeschool successfully on a very modest budget. Being resourceful, prioritizing, and finding creative solutions goes a long way. Many homeschooling families utilize libraries, borrow resources, purchase hand me downs, participate in co-ops, volunteer, and finding affordable experiences. Your financial status does not dictate your ability to provide a rich and engaging home education
Some even think you can only homeschool with one parent at home. On the contrary, there are many parents who both work and homeschool, and I have definitely seen a few single, working moms homeschool. If there’s a will there’s a way.
Myth #6: Homeschool children don’t do well academically.
This myth is widely disproven by research. Numerous studies have shown that homeschooled children perform as well as, and often better than, their traditionally schooled peers on standardized tests. The individualized attention, flexible pacing, and ability to dive deep into subjects of interest can be incredibly beneficial for academic growth.
Myth #7: Homeschool children do not socialize.
This is perhaps one of the most eye-rolling homeschool myths! Homeschooling doesn’t mean isolating your children. In fact, many homeschooled children have more diverse social experiences than their peers. Their social circles are often wider and more diverse, rather than being confined to a single age group for several hours a day. We actively seek out social opportunities, and our kids have friends from all walks of life.
Myth #8: Homeschool children lack structure.
Structure in homeschooling looks different for every family. It might not be the rigid bell schedule of a traditional school, but that doesn’t mean it’s absent. Homeschooling families often create their own routines and rhythms that work best for their unique learners and work schedules. A life skill we all need. This can include daily schedules, weekly plans, project-based learning, or a more unschooling approach where learning is interest-led. The structure is there, it’s just customized.
Myth #9: You need to stick to one curriculum to successfully homeschool.
Absolutely not! One of the greatest freedoms of homeschooling is the ability to customize learning. Most families do start with a planned curriculum from one source, and while some stick to it through out the school years, most families move on to picking and choosing. In fact after 2 years of homeschooling with only one curricula, I am now only doing partial (language arts and math) and choosing science, geography, and languages from different sources. Flexibility with resources is a huge asset to a child’s education. The goal is to find what helps your child learn best, not to adhere strictly to a pre-packaged box.
Myth #10: Homeschool children cannot get good jobs.
This is a fear many parents have, but the homeschool myth is unfounded. Homeschool graduates go on to successful careers in every field imaginable – from entrepreneurship and technology to medicine, arts, law, etc. Colleges and universities actively recruit homeschooled students, recognizing their often strong self-direction, critical thinking skills, and unique perspectives. Ultimately, a good job depends on skills, ambition, dedication, and opportunity, not the method of schooling. The world is full of successful homeschool alumni proving this myth wrong every single day! (look for my blog post “Famous People Who Were Homeschooled” coming soon
Myth #11: There is no wrong way to homeschool.
While I advocate for flexibility and individualization, I wouldn’t go so far as to say there’s no wrong way to homeschool. There is, and that is when no learning is happening. A “wrong way” to homeschool involves neglect, a complete lack of engagement, or creating an unhealthy and isolated environment for your child. Homeschooling requires dedication, a commitment to your child’s well-being and education, and a willingness to adapt and grow. However, there are countless right ways, tailored to each family’s unique needs!
Myth #12: Homeschool is illegal.
This is a common misconception, particularly in places where homeschooling isn’t widely understood. In most developed countries, including Canada and the US, homeschooling is legal, though regulations and requirements vary by province/state. It’s crucial to research the specific laws in your area to ensure compliance. You can read more on homeschool laws and regulations in the blog post here (coming soon)
Homeschooling is a diverse and dynamic educational path, and it looks different for every family. By bursting the bubble on these common homeschool myths, I hope to offer a more realistic and encouraging picture of what homeschooling truly is. If you’re considering it, or are already on this journey, remember that you are capable, your children are capable, and there is a supportive homeschooling community ready to cheer you on!
What homeschool myths have you come accross? Write in the comment section below
Other related blogs
How To Homeschool when you have no idea what you are doing (coming soon)
Homeschool laws and regulations (coming soon)
10 Tips For Homeschooling With Babies and Toddlers
Boost Learning and Focus Through Exercise
Famous People Who Were Homeschooled (coming soon)
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