How to Homeschool Without Losing Yourself (or Your Sanity)

Let’s be honest—homeschooling is a journey that rarely ever feels totally “figured out.” But there are things we can do to stay intentional, organized, and grounded. Here are some tips that can help you find a rhythm that works—for your kids and for you.

1. Create a Plan

You don’t have to follow it to a T, but just having a plan brings so much clarity. Think of it like going grocery shopping hungry without a list—chaos, exhaustion, and way too many snacks. Homeschooling without a plan often ends the same way: doing too much of one thing, too little of another, and feeling like you accomplished nothing.

Sketch out a basic weekly rhythm. Estimate how many math lessons you’ll need to do per week to hit your end-of-year goals. No, it won’t all go perfectly—and that’s okay. The plan is a guide, not a law.

2. Plan for the Sick Days, Snow Days, and Chaos Days

You will have days when it all unravels—and that’s when your “Plan B” becomes gold.

Have some educational but low-pressure options on standby: a read-aloud book, an audiobook, Mad Libs, sensory kits, circuit board sets, or travel-friendly workbooks. These backups can be lifesavers when a kid is sick or you’re juggling appointments.

Remember, even when bodies are tired, minds often still want to be engaged—just in a gentler way.

3. Explore “Allohomeschooling”

Inspired by the term “alloparenting,” which E. O. Wilson coined in his work about Sociobiology, allohomeschooling involves sharing the educational load with trusted people who love your kids. Maybe a grandparent does weekly science experiments, or a friend leads art projects.

This isn’t about outsourcing to paid tutors—this is about building a community of people who want to be part of your child’s learning journey. In our home, my sister takes over one day a week with my kindergartener, and it’s a gift for both of us.

4. Let Curriculum Be a Tool, Not the Boss

Hear this: You do not have to do every page of every curriculum. It's a resource, not a ruler.

Most homeschoolers don’t finish every lesson in every book. That’s normal. Use what serves your child and your goals, and skip what doesn’t. You’re in charge—not the curriculum.

The why is important!

5. Know Your “Why”

Your “why” will carry you through the hard days. Maybe it’s flexibility, a safer environment, or a better educational fit for your child. Whatever your reason, write it down. Revisit it. Let it be your anchor when doubt creeps in.

6. Cut the Commitments That Drain You

Almost every person I've ever seen who is new to homeschooling asks the wrong question first. They all ask, "How do I find a co-op?"

Guys, let me just tell you that co-ops are not all they are cracked up to be, and unfortunately, they are also not all created equal. You don't need a co-op. You need a support system. You need a friend. You need to see and touch curriculum, read some great books from homeschoolers who have been where you are already, and find a place for your kids to engage socially. One of the biggest mistakes I see people make is over committing to social things or co-ops which then drain them of energy and take away from the beautiful life that homeschooling can give us. With outside commitments, my best adivce is to start small and make sure it fits with the vision you have for your homeschool. Check in with yourself and your kids to see if whatever program you are invested in actually provide the benefits you're looking for. You don’t need a packed calendar—you need support, clarity, and margin. Start small. Choose commitments that align with your vision and values. Too many outside activities can quickly rob homeschooling of its beauty and freedom.

I am always grateful for the women who support the work we are doing. My friends are just the best!

7. Find (or Build) a Support System

Homeschooling is not meant to be done in isolation. Whether it's one trusted friend, a local group, or families you meet at the park—build your tribe.

Funny enough, my core homeschool community grew after I was rejected from a co-op. Now, many of my closest homeschool mom friends were rejected from that same one! Real connections grow organically, not just through official groups. 

8. Do Your Own Research

Don’t just ask strangers online what curriculum they’re using. That defeats the whole point of homeschooling—personalized learning!

All day long you can find people asking the question "what curriculum should I choose for my _________ grader?"

This goes against why most of us are homeschooling. Each child is unique and just because one curriculum worked well for someone else's child doesn't mean it will work for yours. Sometimes even kids in the same family respond differently to different curricula. It's not a one size fits all thing. Curriculum is a tool. Do your own research and try out samples before you commit to buying it. You don't have to have the perfect curriculum on day one. It's OK to try out a few before you make a decision. 

9. Make Things Easier When You Need To

Using an online program, hiring a tutor, or delegating a subject you’re uncomfortable teaching isn’t a failure—it’s a smart strategy.

There are seasons where you need extra help—new baby, health issues, burnout. Lean on enrichment programs, hybrid classes, or YouTube channels when needed. Preserving your energy helps your homeschool thrive.

10. Meal Plan (Yes, Really)

Homeschooling happens at home—which means someone has to feed everyone. Every. Single. Day.

Making endless daily decisions is exhausting. Having a meal plan in place can save your sanity, especially after busy days of field trips, co-ops, or just a rough morning. Take time each week to prep a meal plan. You won’t regret it.

Do you have a tip for saving your sanity while homeschooling? Share it below!