When you’re new to homeschooling, the variety of methods can feel overwhelming. Homeschooling isn’t one-size-fits-all, and each family brings its unique rhythm, goals, and values to the journey. In this conversation, homeschool moms June, Christina, and Maggie explore several popular homeschooling methods, sharing insights into each approach and discussing what has worked for their families. Whether you’re drawn to the structure of classical education or the flexibility of unschooling, these insights will help you discover which methods might be a good fit for your homeschool.

This is just part of a longer conversation between these homeschooling moms. You can read all the interview articles on our blog, or view the video interviews in our How I Homeschool course, available for free on My Compass Classroom.

Starting with the Basics: Popular Homeschooling Methods

School at Home: Structure and Familiarity

One of the most straightforward approaches to homeschooling is the “school-at-home” method, sometimes called “school in a box.” June explains that in this approach, families order a complete curriculum package, similar to what children would use in a traditional school setting. “Everything comes to you in a box,” Christina says, describing it as an easy entry point for those new to homeschooling.

Maggie notes that this method can be helpful for families who want a structured environment, but it can become challenging if you’re homeschooling children of different ages. “You’re going to have to be facilitating different subject matter for each child,” she explains. While school-at-home might work well for some families, Maggie advises that it’s essential to ensure you have the time and energy to manage multiple grade levels. For families with fewer children or those who thrive with routine, this method can offer a straightforward, structured way to start homeschooling.

Classical Education: The Timeless Treasures of Western Civilization

Classical education is rooted in the classical trivium: grammar, logic, and rhetoric. Maggie, who has experience teaching in a classical school, explains that this approach focuses on foundational knowledge in the early years, followed by critical thinking skills in the middle years, and expressive skills in high school. “You do memorize better when you’re younger,” she says, adding that memorization in the early years provides a foundation for deeper learning later on.

June appreciates that classical education emphasizes the treasures of Western civilization—history, literature, philosophy—often missing in modern curricula. “It’s very thorough,” Christina says, noting that classical education offers a rich, content-heavy experience that appeals to families who value traditional academic rigor. Resources like The Well-Trained Mind by Susan Wise Bauer can offer guidance for families interested in incorporating a classical approach into their homeschool.

Charlotte Mason: The Beauty of Living Books and Nature

The Charlotte Mason method is another popular approach, especially among families who value a holistic and nature-oriented education. Developed by British educator Charlotte Mason, this philosophy emphasizes short lessons, nature study, art, and “living books”—books that spark curiosity and imagination. Christina explains, “It’s about spreading a feast for children of beautiful ideas, music, art, nature, and literature.”

Maggie shares that in the Charlotte Mason approach, the focus is less on textbooks and more on engaging stories and rich language. Living books are foundational, with an emphasis on quality writing that resonates with children. Christina highlights that living books are those that “spark something inside your child,” often leaving them eager to discuss the story or act it out. This method encourages a relaxed but intentional atmosphere, where learning feels like an enjoyable part of everyday life.

Unschooling: Freedom and Child-Led Exploration

Unschooling, a term that often sparks curiosity, is a child-led approach to education. June describes it as allowing children to follow their interests, whether that’s engineering, cooking, or art. “The parent is more of a facilitator,” she says, explaining that unschooling parents provide resources and guidance without a fixed curriculum.

Maggie admits that unschooling can be challenging to define because it looks different for every family. The beauty of unschooling is that it allows for organic learning based on each child’s passions and curiosity. June notes that while she doesn’t fully embrace unschooling, she values child-led learning and creates opportunities for her children to explore independently. Unschooling can be an excellent option for families who value autonomy, creativity, and experiential learning.

Unit Studies: A Thematic Approach to Learning

Unit studies allow families to take a thematic approach to learning, focusing on a single topic that spans multiple subjects. June explains that unit studies create connections between subjects rather than treating each one separately. “It’s about not being disjointed,” Maggie says. For instance, a study on the American Revolution could include history, literature, science, and art all centered around that time period.

Christina mentions that unit studies work well with young children. By focusing on topics like gardens, ponds, or apples, families can integrate science, art, and language in a way that feels cohesive and meaningful. This approach appeals to families who enjoy hands-on projects and creative exploration, allowing children to immerse themselves fully in a subject.

Combining Methods to Fit Your Family

Blending Approaches for a Customized Homeschool

The moms agree that homeschooling doesn’t require strict adherence to one method. Christina points out that her family blends Charlotte Mason with elements of classical education, focusing on living books, nature study, and memory work. “I don’t have to be all one way,” she says, encouraging new homeschoolers to explore different approaches and combine what works best for their family.

Maggie shares that it took her a few years to find her homeschooling “groove.” For her, combining methods allowed her to create a flexible, enriching environment that meets her children’s needs. Each family’s approach will look different, but the freedom to adapt and experiment is one of the biggest strengths of homeschooling.

The Value of a Tutorial or Co-op

For families who want additional support, tutorials and co-ops offer a way to incorporate group learning without committing to full-time schooling. Christina explains that tutorials often provide classes one or two days a week, allowing children to learn from other teachers and interact with peers. In a co-op, parents typically take turns teaching, sharing the workload, and creating a sense of community.

Maggie adds that tutorials can be especially beneficial for only-child families or those with limited social opportunities. Tutorials allow children to make friends, work in groups, and experience a classroom-like setting, while parents get a bit of time to themselves or focus on other responsibilities. This flexibility allows homeschool families to customize their experience without feeling isolated.

Choosing the Right Method for Your Family

Clarifying Your Family’s Goals and Values

Before diving into a specific homeschooling method, June encourages parents to clarify why they want to homeschool. Christina agrees, explaining that understanding your “why” helps guide decisions about curriculum, daily routines, and even discipline. “If your goal is more time for family or flexibility for your child’s interests, your homeschool will reflect those priorities,” she says.

Maggie emphasizes that homeschooling is not just a reaction to external factors but an intentional choice about what you want for your family. Whether it’s giving your child more time to pursue a passion or providing a values-driven education, having clear goals helps you stay focused and navigate the ups and downs of homeschooling.

Experimenting and Adapting Over Time

Homeschooling is a journey, and the first method you choose might not be the one you stick with long-term. Maggie shares how she spent a few years “finding her feet” before settling on the right approach. “Don’t worry about getting it perfect from the start,” she advises. Homeschooling allows for the flexibility to adapt, try new methods, and evolve based on your family’s changing needs.

Christina and June agree that homeschooling isn’t static. As children grow, interests change, and family dynamics shift, homeschool methods can be adjusted to fit new seasons. Whether you find your groove quickly or take time to discover what works, each family’s homeschooling journey is unique and ever-evolving.

Conclusion: Embracing the Diversity of Homeschooling

Homeschooling offers a wealth of methods, from structured classical education to the freedom of unschooling. Each approach has its strengths and appeals to different family needs and learning styles. As June, Christina, and Maggie have shared, finding the right fit often involves exploring various methods, blending what resonates, and creating a homeschool that reflects your family’s unique goals and values.

Homeschooling is ultimately about freedom—the freedom to choose, adapt, and cultivate a love for learning. Whether you lean toward Charlotte Mason’s living books, classical education’s rigorous content, or a mix of everything, the best homeschooling method is the one that works for your family. Embrace the journey, enjoy the flexibility, and remember that homeschooling allows you to build a rich, meaningful education tailored to your children’s needs and passions.

Enjoy the entire conversation between these homeschooling moms in our How I Homeschool course, available for free on My Compass Classroom.

Need some help and encouragement to take these steps in your own homeschool? Christina, one of the moms from the interview above, would love to come alongside you for help and encouragement. Book a one-on-one appointment with her or one of our other veteran moms—no long-term commitment is needed. Learn more about our coaching services.