The Top 15 Questions Parents Ask About Homeschooling (Part One)
Many parents feel a God-led prompting toward homeschooling but wrestle with questions about socialization, cost, time, legality, and curriculum. This guide reassures families that homeschooling can be relational, flexible, affordable, and legally supported while allowing parents to steward their child’s influences and learning. Ultimately, homeschooling is less about perfect plans and more about discipleship—trusting God to guide each step as learning becomes a Christ-centered lifestyle.
Seeking God’s Guidance in Your Family’s Educational Journey
For many parents, the decision to homeschool begins as a quiet stirring in the heart—a sense that God might be calling you to shift what your child is learning, how they are learning, who they are being influenced by, and when they are learning.
But with that calling often come dozens of questions, doubts, and what-ifs. Before you run out and buy a laminator, 64 shades of dry-erase markers, and a whiteboard, let’s tackle the most common questions parents ask about homeschooling. Spoiler: the answers are rarely what you expect.
1. How will my child be socialized?
Homeschooling doesn’t mean isolation. Today’s homeschoolers are active in co-ops, church groups, sports, youth group, field trips, playdates, and community programs. They often interact with people of all ages and backgrounds which helps them develop well-rounded communication skills and strong values.
“Walk with the wise and become wise.” — Proverbs 13:20
Socialization isn’t about crowd size; it’s about the quality of relationships. In homeschooling, you have the blessing of guiding your child toward Christ-centered friendships and mentors. Jesus had twelve disciples. That’s a small group, not a crowd—and He did just fine.
2. Is homeschooling expensive?
Truthfully, homeschooling can be as budget-friendly or as fancy as you want. Some families thrive with free online resources and the library card that never sleeps. Others build classrooms that look like a magazine portrait. Many excellent curriculums and resources are available for free or at low cost, especially online or through secondhand networks.
“My God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:19
God provides what we need for the tasks He calls us to. Steward your resources wisely, and trust that He will supply what’s necessary for your family’s homeschool journey.
3. How much time will homeschooling take?
Most families find that homeschooling requires fewer hours than traditional school because lessons are individualized, efficient, and there are not the same transition times to and from school and between subjects. Conversely, if your child thrives with extended time to complete an assignment and ample time between lessons, their learning day might be extended but that it is perfect for them.
Homeschooling is not just about textbooks—it’s about discipleship. Deuteronomy 6:6–7 reminds us to teach God’s truth “when you sit at home and when you walk along the road.” Learning becomes a lifestyle, not a schedule.
4. Is homeschooling legal in my state?
Yes. Homeschooling is legal in all 50 states, though requirements differ. Some states ask for minimal paperwork; others require more documentation or testing. Check your local homeschool association or state department of education for clear guidance. There are incredible online groups for parents who homeschool that will answer all your questions. In addition, HSLDA (Home School Legal Defense Association) is a membership-based organization that will answer legal questions and advocate for your child if the need arises.
Following your state’s laws is a way to honor God’s design for order and obedience. “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established”—Romans 13:1
5. What curriculum should I use?
There’s no “one-size-fits-all” curriculum. Some families love structured, faith-based programs; others build their own mix of resources. Pray for discernment, research options, and be willing to adjust as you go.
Keep focused your family’s goal(s) for homeschooling as you choose your curriculum. If your goal was to reignite a love of learning in your child, choose a curriculum that meets their interests and learning style—perhaps hands-on projects and a reading program that has a heavy focus on nonfiction science and sports will excite your child. If your goal was to have a faith-based education, choose from one of the many Christian curriculums. If your goal was to help your child make healthy friendships, look into local co-ops in your area.
The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress. Curriculum is simply a tool; the true teaching happens in the conversations, character training, and prayers you share daily.
“The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.”—Psalms 37:23-24
Pray, experiment, and don’t be afraid to switch if something flops. (Spoiler: it will flop sometimes. That’s okay.)
Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll tackle the next five questions:
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? Will they be ‘behind’ compared to public school kids?”
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?”
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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.
