1. Home Education Doesn’t Mean School at Home
When we first began home education, I went into full-on teacher mode. Our home transformed into a classroom. Backpacks were packed, desks were set up, and I structured our day as if we were still in school: starting at 9 a.m., squeezing in as much as possible until my kids’ concentration fizzled out.
It was familiar but no fun and it wasn’t working.
I quickly realised that replicating school wasn’t the best environment for my kids or our family’s needs. We started embracing hands-on learning, having deeper discussions, and incorporating education into real-world activities. Suddenly, our home looked like a home again. Learning happened naturally and everywhere. My children thrived, and I started enjoying the journey alongside them. Home education is about freedom, letting go of rigid schedules and letting curiosity lead the way.
2. There Is No “Ahead” or “Behind” for Their Age
One of my biggest early worries was whether my kids were “keeping up.” Were they “behind”? Would I fail them?
Here’s the truth: The idea of being ahead or behind only exists in comparison to others. In traditional schooling, kids are grouped, graded, and ranked, creating an unhealthy sense of competition. But life doesn’t work that way. Success isn’t measured by standardised tests or arbitrary milestones.
For example, my 8-year-old discovered a passion for coding, which is now a multi-million industry. Traditional schooling wouldn’t introduce until much later. Home education allows your child to explore their interests at their own pace. Some skills come quickly; others take time. And that’s okay. Your child is exactly where they need to be.
3. What About Reports and Legal Requirements?
Navigating official requirements for home education can feel overwhelming at first, but it’s simpler than it seems.
- If your child is in school: You’ll need to deregister them. Write a letter to the school’s headteacher, stating your intention to home educate. The school must acknowledge your request, and you’re free to begin.
- If your child has never been to school: You currently have no obligation to inform anyone (though legislation may change in the future).
Local Authorities (LAs) may contact you to ensure your child is receiving a satisfactory education. In most cases, this means submitting an annual report, which can be brief and straightforward. Templates are available online, and many families go years without being contacted. Requirements vary by location, but the key is showing that your child is learning, progressing, socialising, and thriving.
4. How Do You Know What Subjects to Cover?
It’s natural to think you need to replicate school subjects, but home education is far more flexible. While we chose to focus on English and Maths, we quickly learned that learning isn’t confined to neat subject boxes. A single science experiment, for example, might include:
- Science (of course!)
- Writing (documenting the process)
- Maths (calculations and measurements)
- History (the origins of the concept)
- Art (illustrations and models)
- Social skills (teamwork and problem-solving)
Everything is interconnected, and the freedom to explore topics deeply is one of the greatest gifts of home education. Trust the process. If you’re unsure where to start, ask your child. Their curiosity will guide you.
5. No Home Education Journey Is the Same
Home education isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some families prefer structured “home school” lessons, while others embrace unschooling, world schooling, Montessori methods, or Charlotte Mason’s philosophy. For us, it’s a blend that evolves depending on our children’s interests and our family’s needs.
Connecting with other home education families can be a lifeline. Sharing ideas, resources, and experiences helps you find what works best for your unique journey. But remember: Comparison is the thief of joy. Every family and child is different, and that’s the beauty of home education.
Our role as parents is to support our children’s learning by providing resources, emotional encouragement, and opportunities to explore the world. Be open to the unexpected lessons and trust that you are enough to guide your child on this incredible adventure.
Embrace the freedom, the messiness, and the joy of learning together. You’ve got this.
