How to Homeschool When You Work (Yes, it's possible!)

Let’s get this out of the way first: You can work and homeschool your children.
Yes, even if you work full-time. Yes, even if your kids are young.
No, it won’t look like a traditional classroom—and that’s actually a good thing.

As a nurse, educator, and full-time working mom myself, I’ve walked this path—and I created my homeschool plan while working shifts, raising toddlers, and teaching at the college level. Yes, my husband works outside of the home too. And he even took on the task of homeschooling full-time for a full year with my methods. 

Here are some of the best strategies we used, and still use to make it work! 

Think Outside the 8–3 School Day

One of the biggest mindset shifts? Realizing that learning doesn’t have to happen during traditional school hours.

Homeschooling gives you the flexibility to design a schedule that fits your life.
Lessons can happen in the evenings, on weekends, or early mornings—whatever fits around your work schedule.

For example:

• Work early? Try schooling after lunch or dinner.

• Work evenings? Mornings can become your focused learning block.

• Split shifts or variable work? A flexible weekly routine may work better than a daily one.

Inside my course, I show you exactly how to create a realistic weekly homeschool rhythm—even with an unpredictable schedule.

Embrace Independent Learning (Even with Younger Kids)

While younger kids need more one-on-one time, you’d be surprised how much they can do on their own with just a little structure.

Here’s what helps:

• Setting up daily “must-do” tasks they can do independently or with minimal help

• Creating a morning basket or workbox system with pre-prepped activities

• Incorporating educational play and screen time intentionally

For older kids, independent work becomes even easier with the right tools—and I walk you through how to set it all up without micromanaging.

Get Strategic With Your Time

If you’re juggling a job and homeschooling, time-blocking is your best friend.

You don’t need to do “all the things” every day. Instead, focus on:

• Core subjects 2–3 days a week

• Creative or supplemental learning (like science experiments, art, or nature walks) on lighter work days

• Short, focused lessons (20–30 mins is plenty!)

My course teaches time-blocking strategies that help you prioritize the essentials without burnout.

Ask for Help (and Accept It)

Homeschooling doesn’t mean you have to be the only one doing the teaching.

Many families:

• Join co-ops or learning pods

• Trade teaching days with another parent

• Hire part-time tutors or virtual teachers

• Train caregivers to be the one teaching (state dependent)

• Use online programs or curriculum with built-in video instruction

You can even outsource parts of your homeschool planning- like I offer through extended coaching and fully planned weekly materials for families.

It’s Okay to Start Simple

The biggest mistake working parents make? Thinking they have to figure it all out before they start.

You don’t.
In fact, starting simple helps you build confidence and avoid burnout.

That’s why I created Foundations of Homeschool - a self-paced, step-by-step guide that helps working parents start homeschooling without the stress.

In the course, you’ll:

• Learn how to navigate state laws

• Set realistic goals for your family

• Choose the right curriculum (without wasting money)

• Create a schedule that works with your job

• Get plug-and-play templates and trackers to make it all easier

Want a Homeschool Plan That Works with Your Life?

If you’re a working parent wondering if homeschooling is possible—let me say it again: Yes, it is.
And I’d be honored to help you make it happen with less stress and more support.