Outsourcing in Your Homeschool: Who & when to ask for help

Getting to this point could be a moment could have involved a moment of panic when you felt out of your depth as a homeschooling parent, or a moment of pride when you realized that your kiddo is excelling and needs some extension you’re unable to provide at the moment.

Whether you're making this choice out of necessity or simply seeking a more personalized education for your child, the journey ahead is full of possibilities. As you dive into this adventure, here are some friendly tips to help you get started and make the most of your homeschooling experience by outsourcing learning!

1. Lean on Your Expertise:

First and foremost, take a moment to recognize and celebrate the fact that you are your child's first and most influential teacher. You know your child better than anyone else, and that knowledge is a powerful tool in shaping their educational journey. Leverage your expertise in understanding their strengths, interests, and learning style to create a tailored curriculum.

Consider incorporating real-world experiences into your lessons. Whether it's a trip to the grocery store, a nature walk in the park, or cooking together in the kitchen, every moment can be a learning opportunity. Don't be afraid to experiment with various teaching methods until you find what works best for your child and your family.

If you're looking for more support in your homeschool journey, one of my favorite homeschool mentors, has you covered! Check out the Homeschool Success Club (for newbies) or Homeschool Success Mastery (if you've already begun!).

2. Outsource to Tutors or Online Classes:

Recognize that you don't have to do it all on your own. There are countless resources available to support your homeschooling efforts. If you're not confident in a particular subject or if your child has unique learning needs, consider outsourcing to tutors or enrolling in online classes.

Numerous online platforms offer interactive and engaging courses taught by qualified educators. These programs can supplement your teaching and provide a structured approach to certain subjects. Tutors, whether local or online, can provide one-on-one support, addressing specific challenges your child may be facing.

Recently, I had the privilege of sitting down with the creme de la creme of online teachers and tutors who specialize in working with homeschoolers. Many of them homeschool their own children, so they truly get what you’re going through, and can often provide a really personalized experience based on what your child needs in a particular subject area. Check out the full conversation here.

Remember, outsourcing doesn't diminish your role as a teacher; it enhances it by bringing additional expertise into your homeschooling environment. It also allows you to focus on what you do best while ensuring your child receives a well-rounded education. Sites like Outschool are great for this. Try it out using this affiliate link and get $20 off your first class!

3. Outsourcing to the Community:

Don't forget about the wealth of knowledge and skills available in the community around you. Homeschooling doesn't mean isolation; in fact, it's an opportunity to tap into the expertise of professionals, family members, and local businesses.

Engage with your community by seeking out professionals who are willing to share their expertise. This could include guest speakers, field trips, or even mentorship programs. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and family friends can also contribute to your child's education by sharing their experiences and skills.

Consider reaching out to local businesses for hands-on experiences. Many businesses are open to hosting educational visits or providing insights into their industry. This not only enriches your child's learning but also fosters a sense of community and connection.

I got to chat with a former engineer about teaching our kids coding, and she had some amazing ideas for outsourcing to the community!

Remember, it’s a privilege to meet these needs at home. This is something our kids wouldn’t normally get in a traditional school setting, and it allows you to tailor your child's education to their unique needs and interests. By leaning on your expertise, outsourcing to tutors or online classes, and engaging with your community, you'll create a well-rounded and enriching educational experience for your family. Embrace the adventure, stay flexible, and enjoy the learning process together!

What would you add to this list?! We're always sharing helpful stuff like this in the FREE Teachers, Homeschoolers & Resource Creators Hub on Facebook!