97: Should I Homeschool? 5 Things to Consider

“Are my kids really getting what they need in school? What if the environment they’re in is holding them back instead of helping them thrive? Could I take on a much larger role in their schooling if I wanted to?”

If you’ve found yourself asking questions like these, you’re not alone. More and more parents - especially families of color - are exploring homeschooling as a way to create an education that truly fits their children.

But here’s the thing: deciding whether to homeschool isn’t as simple as a yes or no. It’s about asking the right questions to see if this path aligns with your family’s values, lifestyle, and goals. Before you make the leap, here are 5 important things to consider.

1. Your Why

Every homeschooling journey starts with a “why.” Are you looking for a more customized education that matches your child’s learning style? Do you want to bring your family’s culture and history to the center of their learning? Or are you simply curious and wanting to explore your options?

Your “why” matters because it will guide your decisions when the road gets tough. Personally, my own “why” was rooted in wanting my daughters to see themselves reflected in their education - something they weren’t always getting in traditional school. Knowing that made it easier to push through the doubts and challenges.

2. Your Educational Approach

Homeschooling isn’t just about recreating school at home. It’s about reimagining what learning can look like. Do you lean toward hands-on, project-based learning? Do you want to integrate your family’s culture, faith, and traditions? Or are you focused on ensuring strong academic rigor above all else?

And listen, it’s okay if you don’t know yet. Many parents start with one thing and then a clear approach and figure it out along the way. What matters is giving yourself permission to imagine an education that feels authentic to your family.

3. Your Lifestyle & Schedule

Let’s be real: homeschooling has to fit into your actual life. Do you have a flexible work schedule? Do you work part-time or from home and can adjust your day? Or are you working full-time with limited wiggle room?

When I first started homeschooling while juggling my career, I had to let go of the idea that our days would look like traditional school hours. Instead, we built a rhythm that worked for us. Sometimes that meant lessons in the morning and work in the afternoon. Sometimes it was flipped. Flexibility is the superpower here, but you’ll want to think through what adjustments your schedule may need.

4. Your Comfort Level as Your Child's Teacher/Guide

This one stops a lot of parents in their tracks. “But I’m not a teacher!” Here’s the truth: homeschooling isn’t about knowing everything: it’s about guiding your child’s learning journey. You can lean on curriculum, online classes, co-ops, tutors, or even swap teaching responsibilities with other homeschool parents.

If you’re excited to dive in, then great! If you’re a little nervous, that’s normal too. You don’t have to do this alone, and you don’t have to be the “perfect teacher” to give your child a great education.

5. Your Support System

Homeschooling can feel isolating if you don’t have people in your corner. Do you have a partner who supports the idea? Family or friends who understand? What about local co-ops, learning pods, or virtual homeschool communities?

And here’s the truth: sometimes your family won’t get it. Sometimes friends may question your decision. That doesn’t mean you’re on your own. It means you get to build your village: a supportive community of other parents and families who are walking this same path.

So, Should You Homeschool?

Only you can answer that question. But by considering your “why,” your educational approach, your lifestyle, your role as the guide, and your support system, you’ll be equipped to make the choice with confidence.

And if you’re still wondering where you stand, I’ve created a quick, free quiz to help you find clarity. It walks you through these exact questions and points you toward your best next step.

👉🏾 Take the Quiz Now!

No matter where you land, know this: you have the power to take ownership of your child’s education, and that is a beautiful thing.