We see it happen all the time. A new mom so excited to homeschool and ready to jump in with both feet and do ALL the things. There are visions of structured schedules, color-coded lesson plans, and a perfectly organized workspace. Is it surprising to learn that homeschool never looks like you thought it would? It doesn’t have to look like traditional school at home—and, in many ways, it shouldn’t. Taking time to deschool can be one of the most important steps in transitioning to homeschooling, benefitting both parents and children.
Is it surprising to learn that homeschool never looks like you thought it would? It doesn’t have to look like traditional school at home—and, in many ways, it shouldn’t.
What Is Deschooling?
Deschooling is stepping away from the routines and mindsets of traditional schooling. It’s a time to unlearn the habits and expectations shaped by traditional education, address any lingering school-related stress or trauma, and focus on reestablishing connections as a family. Think of it as a detox period for both you and your child—a chance to reset and transform your viewpoint of education.
Why Deschooling Matters
Unlearn Bad Habits: In traditional schooling, there is an unhealthy focus on compliance, rigid schedules, and external validation. Deschooling allows your family to shift away from these patterns and rediscover the joy of learning for its own sake. This transition lays the groundwork for a more personalized and effective education.
Undo School Trauma: For many children, school can be a source of anxiety, frustration, or even trauma. Rushing into a new homeschooling routine without addressing these emotions can hinder progress and leave you in a worse place than you were before you left school. Deschooling allows for much-needed margin, giving kids time to heal and rediscover (or find for the first time) their true selves and interests.
Reestablish Bonds: Busy rushed mornings, long school days, and homework-filled evenings aren’t exactly the recipe for healthy family relationships. Deschooling allows parents and children to reconnect and build trust. This bond is an essential foundation for a successful homeschooling experience and family life beyond the school years.
Focus on Relationship, Routine, and Rest: Yes, you read that right - the 3 R’s that matter just as much as the traditional ones! Deschooling encourages families to prioritize what truly matters: their well-being. By taking time to rest and find a natural rhythm, families can create routines that work for what they need. This focus on relationship-building and self-care ensures a smoother transition into homeschooling and a healthier long-term view of education.
How to Deschool as a Family
Check out our post A Fresh Start for Homeschooling for some ideas on activities while you are deschooling.
Why Deschooling Benefits You and Your Child
Deschooling isn’t just sitting back and doing nothing, letting the kids veg on their screens for hours at a time; it’s an intentional step that benefits your family academically and emotionally. It creates space for:
Personalized Learning: By stepping back and observing, you gain insight into your child’s natural interests and learning styles, allowing you to focus your approach on what will work best for them.
Reduced Stress: Letting go of traditional expectations reduces stress for everyone, creating a more positive and productive environment.
Deeper Connections: Taking time to bond with your child sets the stage for a collaborative learning journey that will benefit your entire family.
Long-Term Success: A foundation built on trust, wonder, and joy leads to greater academic achievement and healthier emotional well-being.
Take the Leap, But Take It Slowly
It’s cliche, but true… Homeschooling is a marathon, not a sprint. Taking the time to deschool provides your family with a smoother transition into this new adventure. Embrace this opportunity to prioritize relationships, rediscover the joy of learning, and create a foundation of lifelong learning & growth. Let go of the desire to perform and “keep up”. And start your homeschooling journey with intention and joy.
Homeschooling is a marathon, not a sprint. Let go of the desire to perform and “keep up”. Start your homeschooling journey with intention and joy.
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