When I first started homeschooling, I had this beautiful picture in my mind—peaceful mornings, happy kids gathered around the table, and lessons that flowed effortlessly. Let’s just say… reality hit fast. While homeschooling has become one of the most rewarding decisions our family has made, it didn’t come without its fair share of trial and error.
If you're just beginning your homeschool journey, I want to share the top five mistakes I made (or nearly made!) so you can avoid them and start off on the right foot.
1. Trying to Recreate Public School at Home
I think this is the most common trap new homeschoolers fall into—myself included. In the beginning, I felt like we needed a strict schedule, a designated “classroom,” and worksheets for every subject. I even bought a school bell (I wish I were joking!).
But here’s the truth: homeschooling is not public school. And that’s a good thing. One of the greatest benefits of homeschooling is flexibility. You don’t need to start at 8:00 AM sharp or switch subjects every 45 minutes. Your home doesn't need to mimic a classroom, and your child doesn’t need to sit at a desk for hours to learn effectively.
How to Avoid It:
Take some time to de-school, especially if your child has been in traditional school before. Focus on building connection, observing how your child learns best, and easing into a rhythm that works for your family—not someone else’s.
2. Overloading the Schedule
Guilty again. I wanted to make sure my kids got a "well-rounded" education, so I signed us up for everything— online classes, nature groups, library programs, sports… You name it, we were doing it. Before long, we were more burnt out than inspired.
It’s easy to believe that more equals better, but in homeschooling, less is often more. Too many activities and lessons crammed into the day can overwhelm both you and your child.
How to Avoid It:
Start with the basics: reading, writing, and math. Add in other subjects gradually as you find your flow. It’s okay (and actually healthy) to have slower, simpler days. Leave room for curiosity, free play, and rest.
3. Comparing Your Homeschool to Others
I remember scrolling through Instagram and Pinterest, seeing beautiful homeschool rooms, perfectly organized curriculum carts, and kids happily crafting with zero mess in sight. Meanwhile, I was sitting in my kitchen, surrounded by cereal bowls and glue sticks, wondering if I was doing it all wrong.
The comparison trap is real—and dangerous. Every family, every child, and every homeschool looks different. What works beautifully for one family might completely flop in yours.
How to Avoid It:
Unfollow or mute accounts that make you feel "less than" (even unintentionally). Focus on your unique goals and your kids' individual needs. The beauty of homeschooling is that it doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.
4. Focusing Too Much on Curriculum
I spent so much time (and money!) trying to find the “perfect” curriculum. I thought if I just found the right one, everything else would fall into place. While having a solid curriculum can definitely help, it’s not the magic answer to homeschooling success.
Sometimes, I got so caught up in completing the curriculum that I forgot to enjoy the journey. I rushed through chapters, skipped hands-on opportunities, and ignored my kids' interests just to check boxes.
How to Avoid It:
Remember: curriculum is a tool, not a master. Choose something that fits your season of life and your child’s learning style, but don’t be afraid to adapt, skip, or supplement. And if something’s not working? You’re allowed to switch gears. You’re the teacher now.
5. Expecting Perfection (From Yourself or Your Kids)
This one hit me hard. I put so much pressure on myself to get it right—every lesson, every day. And I expected my kids to always be attentive, cooperative, and excited to learn. When that didn’t happen (because, hello, we’re all human!), I felt like a failure.
But homeschooling isn’t about being perfect. It’s about showing up, learning together, and growing through the challenges. Some days will be magical, and others will be messy. That’s okay.
How to Avoid It:
Give yourself and your kids loads of grace. Celebrate the small wins. Keep showing up. Progress in homeschooling often happens in quiet, subtle ways—like a breakthrough after weeks of frustration, or a spark of curiosity igniting out of nowhere. Trust the process.
Final Thoughts
If you're new to homeschooling, I want you to know that it’s okay to make mistakes. I certainly did, and I’m still learning every day. What matters most is that you’re showing up with love, intention, and a willingness to grow.
Homeschooling doesn’t have to be perfect—it just needs to be meaningful for your family. Give yourself the freedom to make adjustments, take breaks, and figure it out one step at a time.
And if you ever feel like you’re alone in this? You’re not. There’s a whole community of homeschool parents out here cheering you on—including me.
Want More Help Getting Started?
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I’d love to hear from you—what’s been the most surprising part of starting your homeschool journey? Drop a comment below and let’s chat!
Thank you for reading my blog! Stay tuned for more tips, resources, and printable materials to help make your homeschooling experience enjoyable and effective. Check out my store for a variety of educational products and printables to assist you on your homeschooling journey.
Nancy at Cleverly Kindred ❤️
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