What I Wish I Knew When I Started Homeschooling- Dad Version

If you have ever wondered whether you're meeting all your child's needs as a homeschool parent, or worried that you might miss out on something important by doing things differently from traditional school, this conversation is for you. Today we're examining what success actually looks like in homeschooling, especially when it doesn't follow the standard playbook. In our family, hallmark milestones have looked different, friendships grow from unexpected places, and learning shifts as needs change. As we talk through questions like socialization, academic benchmarks, and what it means to "do homeschooling right," you'll hear how our expectations have changed—and why that change brings relief, not regret. This topic matters for homeschoolers because so many decisions are shaped by assumptions about what is normal and necessary. When we let go of rigid timelines and the pressure to replicate school, it creates space to focus on strengths, support challenges, and personalize the learning journey—without losing sight of connection or growth. In this episode you'll hear about: Introduction and Family Introductions Initial Perceptions and Misconceptions About Homeschooling Frequent comment: "But you're so normal" Misunderstandings and mind shifts about homeschooling from others Responses to social perceptions (e.g., from sports teammates) Need or lack thereof to justify being homeschooled Skepticism and Early Concerns from the Homeschool Dad Brandon Collins' initial skepticism and concerns Reflection on Years of Homeschooling and Perspective Changes Nine years of homeschooling experience Evolution from skepticism to happiness with the process Differences between homeschool 'milestones' and public school experiences Student Experience: Socialization, Friendships, and Opportunities Annabelle's sources of friendship (church, co-ops, sports) Unique opportunities available due to homeschooling (early college credits, job flexibility) Flexibility and Customization in Homeschooling Surprises and realizations about flexibility in scheduling and learning Vacations and educational opportunities outside of traditional school schedules Sports and extracurricular participation as a homeschooled student Adapting Curriculum and Parental Approaches Non-traditional, tailored approach (not just recreating public school at home) Adapting and switching between different educational programs and methods Student thoughts on curriculum changes and accommodations Family Dynamics and Practical Moments Deeper Challenges and Difficulties in the Homeschooling Journey Parental patience and encouragement (mantras, support) Preparation for College and Life Skills Personal organization and spreadsheet skills Flexibility in rescheduling and managing workload Final Thoughts and Advice to Other Families Brandon Collins: Encouragement to trust the process, patience, and the value of course correction Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy? Connect with Sarah Collins on IG The Homeschool OT Teachers Pay Teachers Join The OT Insiders Check Out Our Title Sponsor CTC Math CTC Math Free Trial Episode 8: Beyond the Pencil: Exploring Vision's Impact on Homeschool Handwriting Success Episode 13: Beyond the Five Senses: Understanding Your Child's Interoceptive World with Cara Kosinski Episode 23: Blending Sensory Integration and Fitness for Better Handwriting Episode 29: Parenting with Co-Regulation Episode 61: Mindful Moments: Supporting Focus and Calm in Children Episode 72: Navigating Sibling Sensory Needs and Homeschooling Wins and Fails Episode 75: Teaching Kids Healthy Habits: Building Lifelong Wellness Episode 81: Understanding Social Pressures and Masking in Kids Thank you to our title sponsor for this episode, CTC Math. You can check out their FREE trial here. Connect With Our Guest, Brandon Collins Brandon is my husband and the wonderful father to our children. You can connect with him here at [email protected]