The Top 10 Most Common Questions About Homeschooling

Are you thinking about homeschooling or just starting out? You're probably filled with excitement, maybe a bit of uncertainty, and most definitely a lot of questions. Trust me, I get it—homeschooling is a big decision, and there are so many things to consider. That's why I’ve put together this guide to answer the top 10 most common questions people always ask about homeschooling.

When I first started homeschooling, I had so many doubts: Am I doing enough? How will my kids learn to socialise? Will I be able to manage everything? Will my kids end up being weird? Over time, I learned that these questions are super common, and you’ll likely come across them too. But don’t worry—I've got you covered.

1. Is Homeschooling Legal?

Absolutely! Homeschooling is legal in many countries, including Australia, but the requirements vary by state. Some places require you to file a notice of intent, keep detailed records, or yearly meet with a homeschool moderator while others are more relaxed. It’s always a good idea to check your local laws so you’re compliant from the start.

2. What Curriculum Should I Use?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this, and that’s the beauty of homeschooling. You can pick from traditional textbooks, online courses, or even create your own curriculum based on your child’s interests. Whether you prefer a structured approach like Classical Education or a more flexible one like Unschooling, it’s all about finding what works for your family.

3. How Do I Know If My Child Is Learning Enough?

This is a big concern for most new homeschooling parents. The key is to observe your child’s growth over time rather than day-to-day: like watching the ocean from the shore instead of examining each drop of water. Regular assessments, informal discussions, and project-based learning can give you a good idea of their progress. Trust the process—learning happens in many forms!

4. How Do I Keep My Kids Socialised?

Homeschooling doesn’t mean your kids have to miss out on social interactions. Join local homeschool groups, co-ops, or sign them up for extracurricular activities like sports or drama. Many families find that their kids have more diverse social experiences through homeschooling than they would in a traditional school. Rather than being in a class with children all the same age, they are interacting with children of all ages.

5. Can I Homeschool Multiple Kids at Different Ages?

Yes, you can! This is where flexibility comes in. You can teach some subjects together, like history or science, and let them work independently on subjects like math or reading. For example, we start our day with a “Morning Time” where everyone is involved, and then break off for more age-specific lessons.

Download your very own free ebook about Morning Time here.

6. What About High School?

Homeschooling through high school can seem intimidating, but it’s definitely doable. Many parents worry about preparing their teens for the future. The good news is that homeschoolers have many paths, including online courses, TAFE enrolment, or doing single subject units through Open University Australia. Research is showing that less and less students are actually getting to University based on an ATAR score. These alternatives can even sometimes cut some time off their university degrees!

7. How Do I Stay Organised?

Organisation is key to maintaining balance, especially when homeschooling multiple children. Some families use planners or apps to track lessons, excursions, and progress. Others swear by a more relaxed approach, keeping things flexible and focusing on the bigger picture. Find a system that fits your personality and family dynamic.

8. How Do I Handle Criticism or Doubts from Others?

Let’s be real—there’s always someone who will question your choice to homeschool. It’s important to stay confident in your decision and remind yourself why you started. Surround yourself with supportive friends or other homeschoolers who understand your journey. Over time, the results will speak for themselves.

9. What Are the Costs Involved?

Homeschooling can range from being very affordable to more costly, depending on the curriculum, materials, and activities you choose. The good news is that there are free resources available, including online lessons, library books, and educational apps. You can make homeschooling work on almost any budget.

10. Can I Work AND Homeschool my kids?

Yes, you can definitely work and homeschool your kids in Australia! The flexibility of homeschooling allows you to adjust your schedule around your work commitments. With the increasing cost of lving this is becoming a more popular homeschooling option. Many families use a mix of independent learning, online resources, and support from homeschool co-ops to balance both. It might take some planning, but with the right routine, it's entirely possible.

Conclusion

Homeschooling is an opportunity to make learning meaningful and build lasting connections with your kids. It’s not always easy, and there will be challenges, but the rewards are so worth it. You’ll get to witness your child’s curiosity blossom, learn alongside them, and create an environment filled with truth, beauty, and goodness.

For more information on getting started with homeschooling see this blog post.

“In one of our most important decisions, we decided to teach our children at home. I don’t think that my father [historian and teacher Dr. David Garrad McCullough Sr.] knew how right he was when, for years, he urged us kids to call upon him in any emergency, but not to bother about our homework. I’ve been homeschooling ever since, and I love it.” – David McCullough