There's no such thing as 'behind'

There’s no ‘behind’ in homeschool: How to start where you are

As the new year begins, many homeschool families feel a familiar twinge of pressure: “Am I behind?” “Did I miss too much last year?”

The truth is there’s no 'behind' in homeschooling. Your journey isn’t measured by school calendars or rigid timelines. It’s measured by curiosity, growth, and connection.

Here’s how to embrace your unique path and start exactly where you are.

1. Let go of comparison

It’s easy to look at other families, online resources, or even traditional school schedules and feel like you’re falling short. But homeschooling is not a race. Every family’s rhythm is different. Celebrate where you are, rather than worrying about where you think you should be.

Tip: Instead of comparing, take a moment to list three things your family has achieved recently – big or small. These things matter.

2. Take stock of where you are

Before jumping into a new term, take a moment to reflect. Ask yourself:

• What worked well last term?
• What felt stressful or rushed?
• What subjects or activities did my child enjoy the most?

Knowing what’s working (and what isn’t) helps you plan the next step without feeling overwhelmed.

3. Start small, start now

You don’t need a perfect plan or a full curriculum to start. Pick one or two activities that feel manageable and build from there. Even a short reading session, a nature walk, or a simple science experiment counts as meaningful learning.

Tip: Focus on consistency over quantity. A small daily habit will have more impact than an over-packed schedule.

4. Embrace flexibility

One of the greatest freedoms of homeschooling is the ability to pivot. If a lesson sparks curiosity, follow it. If an approach isn’t working, change it. Trust your instincts. Your child’s learning is guided by engagement, not a checklist.

Tip: Keep a “flexibility notebook” to record ideas, reflections, and spontaneous learning moments.

5. Connect and celebrate

Homeschooling can feel isolating, especially in those early weeks of the year. Connect with other families, share wins, ask questions, and celebrate learning milestones together. It reinforces that you’re not behind – you’re on your own path.

The Simply Homeschool Community Group on Facebook is a wonderful place to start.

Remember: Every day is a fresh start

There’s no need to catch up, race ahead, or feel pressure. Homeschooling is about curiosity, growth, and joy, at your pace. Wherever you start today is the right place, and every step counts.