Educational

The Top 15 Questions Parents Ask About Homeschooling (Part Three)

This is the final segment to the three-part series The Top 15 Questions Parents Ask About Homeschooling. Snuggle up with a cozy blanket, some iced coffee, and a sleeve of cookies. Previously, we talked about the following ten most-asked questions about homeschooling:

1. Socialization – “How will my child make friends and interact with others if they’re homeschooled?”
2. Cost – “Is homeschooling expensive?”
3. Time Commitment – “How much time will it take me each day?”
4. Legal Requirements – “Is homeschooling even legal where I live?”
5. Curriculum – “What curriculum should I use?”
6. Teaching Ability – “I’m not a teacher—am I qualified to teach my child?”
7. Academic Rigor – “Will my child get a good education?”
8. Special Needs – “Can I homeschool if my child has learning differences or special needs?”
9. Extracurriculars – “What about sports, music, or clubs?”
10. Structure – “What does a typical homeschool day look like?”


Get ready, we’re jumping into the last set of five questions—the answers probably aren’t what you’d expect!

11. How can we find support and community?

Homeschooling can feel isolating if you try to do it alone—but you don’t have to (and probably shouldn’t). Local co-ops are a great place to create a tight-knit group of family friends; these families become close, support others with homeschooling, and do life together. If you want a ready-made list of kids to invite to your child’s birthday, a co-op might be what you’re looking for. Church-based groups are a great way to connect with those that share your beliefs. Support that parents need while homeschooling doesn’t always need to be connected to academics—having spiritual support and being able to support others through prayer is just as valuable, if not more.

Online homeschool communities are where families share resources, ideas, and encouragement—you can find informational support without needing to invest a lot of time into creating friendships or attending events. If you’re looking for a great lesson plan, clarification on state regulations about homeschooling, or local homeschooling events—online platforms are the support you are looking for.

“Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”—1 Thessalonians 5:11

The body of Christ was designed for community. We teach best when we walk alongside others.

12. Do we have to do standardized testing?

This depends on your state. Some states require testing; others don’t. Even if not required, testing can help you gauge progress and identify learning gaps. The result of the test is information that you can use to tailor your child’s education the following year. Just remember—it’s a tool, not a verdict. There are several different standardized tests that are not connected to specific states but will help to evaluate your child’s academic strengths and weaknesses. Most have a fee associated with them and vary from paper and pencil to online and proctored. All are graded by the testing agency and the results are then sent to you, typically electronically, within an easy to understand spreadsheet.

“…I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”—Psalm 139: 13-14

Either way, don’t let a bubble sheet define your child’s worth—or your own. Your child’s worth isn’t measured by a score but by their God-given potential.


13. Will my child be prepared for college, trade school, or the workplace?

Yes! Colleges love homeschoolers. They see them as independent, motivated, and capable of critical thinking. Keep good records and transcripts, and your child will be well-prepared for the next step.

Proverbs 22:6 reminds us: “Train up a child in the way he should go…” That includes preparing them for higher education, if that’s their path. Homeschooling is not a detour—it’s one of many paths God uses to prepare His children for their purpose.


14. How do I start homeschooling?

Prayer is your best first step. Ask God for direction and trust that He’ll provide what you need, one day at a time. If God is prompting you to homeschool your child, the next step is withdrawing them from public or private school (if they have already started school).

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God…”—James 1:5. God delights to give us wisdom—all we need to do is ask!

Second, research your state’s rules and regulations; every state has its own homeschool laws and requirements. When you decide to pull your child out of public school, be sure you know what is required of you and what your rights are. Online-state-homeschool groups and HSLDA (Homeschool Legal Defense Association) are both valuable sources of information and support as you prepare to take your child out of public or private school.

Third, clarify your goals for homeschooling (connection with your child, focus on emotional health, foster friendships, faith in lessons, hands-on learning, remediation, enrichment, or real-world application). Keep those goals written and in front of you as you begin to choose a curriculum and join programs. Everything you do should line up with your goals.

Fourth, choose curriculum and resources that support your goals.

Fifth, set a rhythm that is consistent and works for your family. Balance structured learning with space for creativity, service, and rest.

Sixth, find community and support through homeschool co-ops, church groups, and online networks.

Don’t be afraid to mess up—because we all do! Homeschooling grows with your confidence and your child’s needs.


15. What if homeschooling doesn’t work out?

Then you pivot. Some families homeschool for a season; others for a lifetime. Returning to a traditional school doesn’t mean failure—it means following where God leads next.

“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”—Lamentations 3:22-23

Homeschooling is a journey of faith, not perfection.

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The information provided on this blog is for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing on this site should be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. Laws and regulations regarding homeschooling may vary by state and jurisdiction, and readers are responsible for verifying applicable legal requirements and ensuring their own compliance.